Locking Distal Fibula Plates L&R 4–12 Holes SS 316L

The Locking Distal Fibula Plates L&R 4–12 Holes SS 316L are orthopedic implants designed to support fixation of selected fractures involving the distal fibula, including appropriate lateral malleolar fractures. The distal fibula forms the outer portion of the ankle joint, where proper fracture alignment and stability are important considerations for restoring joint function. Left and right plate options allow selection according to the intended side and the implant's anatomical contour.

Purpose and Orthopedic Applications

Distal fibula fractures may occur as isolated injuries or as part of more complex ankle fractures. Surgical fixation may be indicated when fracture displacement, ankle instability, joint involvement, or other clinical factors require operative treatment.

Locking distal fibula plates are designed to secure fracture fragments and help maintain alignment during healing. Depending on the model, these plates may be used for selected lateral malleolar fractures and other distal fibula fracture patterns when the plate geometry is appropriate for the patient's anatomy.

The availability of 4–12-hole configurations provides options for selecting plate length and screw placement according to the fracture pattern and fixation plan. The exact dimensions and available configurations should be verified with the manufacturer, as hole count alone does not establish plate length or anatomical suitability.

Left and Right Anatomical Design

The L&R designation indicates left and right plate options. Anatomically contoured plates are intended to follow the general shape of the corresponding bone, helping the surgeon select an implant suited to the affected side.

Correct plate selection and positioning are important for achieving appropriate fixation while accounting for the surrounding soft tissues and ankle joint. The exact contour, distal hole arrangement, plate thickness, and available lengths vary by manufacturer and model. These details should be confirmed before ordering.

Locking Plate Technology

Locking plates feature threaded holes that engage compatible locking screw heads. When properly assembled, the screw-plate interface creates a fixed-angle construct designed to support fixation stability.

Depending on the specific plate system, certain holes may also accommodate conventional screws for alternative fixation techniques. This capability should not be assumed unless confirmed by the manufacturer. Screw diameter, thread design, head geometry, and length must be compatible with the selected plate.

Locking fixation can be useful in selected fracture patterns, but the appropriate method depends on bone quality, fracture characteristics, and the treating surgeon's judgment.

SS 316L Stainless Steel Construction

The product title specifies SS 316L stainless steel. This low-carbon stainless steel alloy contains chromium, nickel, and molybdenum and is known for its corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is used in various medical devices, but suitability for permanent orthopedic implantation depends on the precise material grade, manufacturing quality, applicable standards, and implant-specific certification.

Buyers should request documentation confirming that the plates are manufactured from material appropriate for their stated intended use. Material designation alone does not establish regulatory approval or clinical performance.

Benefits of Multiple Plate Configurations

The 4–12-hole range offers multiple plate-length options for consideration during surgical planning. Left and right configurations help distinguish implants intended for the respective sides, while the locking design supports the use of compatible locking screws.

A selection of plate configurations can help orthopedic departments and trauma centers maintain inventory for different distal fibula fracture patterns. However, the suitability of each plate depends on its dimensions, contour, available fixation points, and the patient's anatomy.

Surgical Use and Compatibility

These plates are intended for use by qualified orthopedic surgeons following the manufacturer's surgical technique and instructions for use. Implant selection requires assessment of fracture location, bone quality, ankle stability, soft-tissue condition, and the planned fixation strategy.

Only screws confirmed as compatible with the plate system should be used. Before purchasing, verify the available plate lengths, left and right configurations, hole arrangements, screw compatibility, and any included accessories.

Handling, Sterilization, and Documentation

The sterility status must be established from the product labeling and packaging. Sterile implants should remain in intact packaging until use and must not be reused if designated for single use. Non-sterile implants must be prepared according to the manufacturer's validated instructions before implantation.

Check the product identification, lot or batch traceability, material certification, expiry information where applicable, and regulatory documentation. Proper storage and handling help preserve implant condition before surgery.

The Locking Distal Fibula Plates L&R 4–12 Holes SS 316L are designed for selected distal fibula fracture fixation applications. Confirm the precise dimensions, material certification, screw compatibility, and manufacturer documentation before ordering.

Key Features

• Orthopedic locking plates for selected distal fibula fractures.

• Left and right plate configurations.

• Multiple hole options ranging from 4 to 12 holes.

• Designed for appropriate lateral malleolar fracture fixation.

• SS 316L stainless steel construction as specified.

• Locking-hole design for compatible locking screws.

• Multiple configurations support case-specific implant selection.

• Anatomical contour and dimensions should be verified with the supplier.

• Intended for use by qualified orthopedic surgeons.

• Requires compatible screws and appropriate surgical technique.

• Sterility status and implant documentation must be confirmed.

Product Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are Locking Distal Fibula Plates used for?

They are designed to stabilize selected fractures of the distal fibula, including appropriate lateral malleolar fractures, by helping maintain bone alignment during healing.

2. What does L&R mean in distal fibula plates?

L&R means left and right. These options allow selection of the plate designed for the corresponding side, subject to the manufacturer's anatomical design.

3. What does the 4–12-hole specification indicate?

It indicates plate configurations with hole counts ranging from 4 to 12. The exact plate lengths and dimensions depend on the specific manufacturer and model.

4. What is SS 316L stainless steel?

SS 316L is a low-carbon stainless steel alloy containing chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. Its corrosion resistance makes it useful in medical applications, but implant suitability must be confirmed through appropriate certification and documentation.

5. Are all 3.5mm or other locking screws compatible with these plates?

No. Compatibility depends on the plate's threaded holes, screw-head design, thread specifications, and intended fixation system. Use only screws confirmed as compatible by the manufacturer.

6. Can these plates be used for every distal fibula fracture?

No. Plate selection depends on fracture location, configuration, bone quality, ankle stability, and the surgeon's assessment. These plates are intended only for appropriate indications.

7. Are the plates supplied sterile?

The product title does not specify sterility status. Check the packaging and manufacturer's instructions for use before clinical application.

8. What should buyers verify before ordering these plates?

Confirm left and right availability, hole configurations, plate dimensions, material certification, screw compatibility, sterility status, and applicable regulatory documentation.