The use of semi-rigid carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic plates for fixation of human fractures. Results of preliminary trials

Semi-rigid plates have been constructed from epoxy resin reinforced with carbon fibre. These have been used in animal trials and also for internal fixation of 20 fractures of the human tibia. The results are generally very satisfactory, and support the view that semi-rigid fixation is not only desirable theoretically, but also works in practice. However, the results are from preliminary trials only, and it is emphasised that further experience is necessary before widespread use ofsuch plates can be advocated.