Biomechanical Comparison of 1-Pin versus 2-Pin Fixation in a Canine Tibial Tuberosity Avulsion Fracture Model

Introduction: Kirschner wire(s) or Steinmann pin(s) (both referred to as pins) are commonly used for tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture (TTAF) fixation. The objective of this study was to determine whether one larger or two smaller diameter pins used for TTAF stabilization provides greater axial tensile strength and stiffness when subjected to monotonic mechanical load to failure testing in normal skeletally mature canine cadavers. We hypothesized that a two-pin fixation would provide greater strength and stiffness when compared to a single-pin fixation.