Tibia Locking Plate Set

Product Overview

The Tibia Locking Plate Set is a comprehensive internal fixation system engineered for the surgical management of tibial fractures across all anatomical regions—proximal, diaphyseal, and distal. Manufactured from high-strength medical-grade titanium alloy, this system features anatomically precontoured plates that conform precisely to the tibial surface, minimizing soft tissue irritation and facilitating fracture reduction. The locking screw technology provides angular stability, creating a fixed-angle construct that is particularly advantageous in osteoporotic bone and comminuted fracture patterns. Available in a wide range of plate configurations—including lateral proximal tibia locking plates (LISS-type), anterolateral distal tibia plates, medial distal tibia plates, posterior proximal tibia plates, and medial proximal tibia plates—this versatile system accommodates both left and right anatomies with multiple hole counts. Each plate incorporates combination holes that accept both locking and cortical screws, offering surgical flexibility, while the round, thin blunt edge design enables minimally invasive insertion. Combining anatomical fit, angular stability, and comprehensive sizing, this system delivers reliable clinical outcomes for orthopaedic trauma surgeons.

Indications for Use

The Tibia Locking Plate Set is indicated for the following clinical scenarios:

• Proximal tibial fractures including tibial plateau fractures (Schatzker types I–VI), bicondylar fractures, and split-depression fractures requiring anatomical reduction and stable fixation.

• Tibial shaft fractures (diaphyseal) including simple, wedge, and comminuted fracture patterns (AO/OTA types 42-A, 42-B, 42-C) where intramedullary nailing may be insufficient or contraindicated.

• Distal tibial fractures including pilon fractures (AO/OTA types 43-B, 43-C), metaphyseal fractures, and intra-articular distal tibial fractures requiring comprehensive articular reconstruction.

• Periarticular fractures involving the tibial plateau or tibial plafond where anatomical contouring and subchondral support are critical.

• Osteoporotic fractures where angular-stable locking screws provide enhanced purchase in compromised bone quality, reducing the risk of fixation failure.

• Non-unions and malunions of the tibia requiring osteotomy, realignment, and stable internal fixation.

• Pathological fractures of the tibia secondary to benign or malignant lesions requiring stabilization and structural support.

• Revision surgeries following failed plating or nailing, where the combination hole design allows for screw placement in previously occupied trajectories.

Key Advantages

The Tibia Locking Plate Set offers a range of distinct clinical benefits that address the specific challenges of tibial fracture fixation.

Anatomically Precontoured Design – Each plate in the system is meticulously shaped to match the specific anatomical contours of the tibial region it is designed for. The lateral proximal tibia plate features two curved surface options (large and small) at the plate head to accommodate varying patient anatomies, while the distal plates are contoured to respect the medial and lateral malleolar geometry. This precontouring reduces the need for intraoperative plate bending, preserves periosteal blood supply, and minimizes soft tissue irritation.

Angular-Stable Locking Technology – The locking screw mechanism creates a fixed-angle construct that functions as an internal fixator, providing superior stability in osteoporotic bone and comminuted fractures. Unlike conventional plating, the locking screws do not rely on friction between the plate and bone, preserving periosteal perfusion and reducing the risk of screw loosening. This technology is particularly valuable in metaphyseal fractures where bone quality is often compromised.

Versatile Combination Holes – Each plate features combination holes that accept both 3.5 mm locking screws and 3.5 mm cortical screws, as well as 2.7 mm locking screws in the distal radius and humeral plates. This flexibility allows surgeons to choose the optimal screw type for each individual hole based on local bone quality and fracture characteristics, providing both fixed-angle stability and the ability to apply interfragmentary compression when needed.

Minimally Invasive Insertion Design – The plates feature a round, thin, blunt edge profile that facilitates submuscular and percutaneous insertion techniques. This design reduces soft tissue trauma, preserves the fracture hematoma, and promotes faster postoperative recovery. The LISS-type (Less Invasive Stabilization System) plates are specifically engineered for percutaneous placement with minimal soft tissue stripping.

Comprehensive Left and Right Anatomical Options – The system includes both left and right versions for all lateral and medial plates, ensuring an anatomical fit regardless of the side of injury. This side-specific design eliminates the need for plate reversal or extensive bending, reducing surgical time and improving implant congruity.

Proximal Suture Holes and K-wire Fixation – Many plates incorporate proximal suture holes for soft tissue reattachment after fixation is completed, particularly in the proximal ulna and proximal tibia plates. Additionally, temporary fixation holes for Kirschner wires allow for provisional stabilization before definitive screw placement, enhancing accuracy and reproducibility.

Specialized Distal Head Configurations – The anterolateral distal tibia plate features 8 locking holes (2.7 mm) in the distal head, with axial deflection of 11–12° to facilitate fixation of posterior malleolus fractures (including Tillaux and Volkmann’s fractures). This dedicated geometry enables the surgeon to address complex distal tibial injuries with precision.

Durable Titanium Alloy Construction – Manufactured from medical-grade titanium alloy, the plates offer excellent corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and MRI compatibility. The material's modulus of elasticity is closer to cortical bone than stainless steel, reducing stress shielding and promoting physiological load transmission during fracture healing.

Technical Specifications & Sizing

Size Range Overview

The Tibia Locking Plate Set encompasses six distinct plate families, each available in multiple hole configurations and left/right anatomical variants to accommodate the full spectrum of tibial fractures.

Detailed Dimension Tables

3.5mm Lateral Proximal Tibia Locking Plate (LISS)

2.7/3.5mm Anterolateral Distal Tibia Locking Plate (LISS)

Lateral Tibia Plateau Locking Plate (LISS)

Medial Proximal Tibia Locking Plate

Posterior Proximal Tibia Locking Plate

Medial Distal Tibia Locking Plate

Note: All plates are manufactured from medical-grade titanium alloy, supplied non-sterile, and compatible with 2.7 mm, 3.5 mm, and 4.0 mm locking and cortical screw systems. Hole counts refer to the total number of screw holes on the plate. For LISS-type plates, the distal head contains locking holes specifically angled for subchondral support, while the shaft contains combination holes for versatility.

Recommended Companion Instrument Set

The Tibia Locking Plate Set is supported by a comprehensive instrument set for precise implantation:

RFQ – Request for Quotation

Q1: What are the available plate materials, and are these plates compatible with both locking and cortical screws?
A: All plates in this set are manufactured from medical-grade titanium alloy (ASTM F136 or equivalent), providing excellent biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and MRI compatibility. Yes, the combination holes on each plate accept both 3.5 mm locking screws and 3.5 mm cortical screws. The distal plates (such as the anterolateral distal tibia plate) also feature 2.7 mm locking screw holes for subchondral fixation. This compatibility allows surgeons to choose the optimal screw type for each individual hole based on bone quality and fracture characteristics, offering both fixed-angle stability and the ability to apply interfragmentary compression when needed.

Q2: Can the Tibia Locking Plate System be used for both minimally invasive and open surgical approaches?
A: Absolutely. The plates feature a round, thin, blunt edge profile specifically designed for submuscular and percutaneous insertion techniques, reducing soft tissue trauma and preserving vascularity. The LISS-type plates are particularly well-suited for minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). However, the system also works equally well in open approaches, with the precontoured plates providing excellent anatomical fit that simplifies reduction. The temporary K-wire fixation holes are particularly useful for provisional stabilization before definitive fixation, regardless of the approach chosen.

Q3: What is the recommended technique for measuring screw length during surgery, and what is the maximum screw length available?
A: We recommend using the depth gauge (100 mm, code 90000108) provided in the instrument set. The gauge is inserted through the drill sleeve after drilling, and the measurement is taken from the far cortex to the near cortex, with an additional 2 mm added for optimal thread engagement. Locking screws are available in lengths from 8 mm to 60 mm, with 2 mm increments, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all tibial fracture patterns. For the 2.7 mm locking screws used in distal plates, the available lengths range from 6 mm to 40 mm. Custom length screws are also available upon request for complex cases.

Q4: Is there a minimum order quantity (MOQ), and what are the typical delivery lead times for international orders?
A: Our standard MOQ is 10 plates per size, but we are happy to accommodate mixed orders and trial kits for initial hospital evaluations. For international orders, the typical lead time is 15–25 working days after order confirmation and deposit receipt, depending on the quantity and custom requirements. We maintain safety stock for commonly used sizes (such as 7-hole and 9-hole lateral proximal tibia plates), which can be shipped within 48 hours for urgent clinical needs. Please contact our export team to discuss specific requirements and expedited shipping options.

Q5: Are sterile-packaged options available for the plates and screws?
A: Currently, the plates and screws in the Tibia Locking Plate Set are supplied non-sterile and must be sterilized before use. We recommend steam sterilization at 134°C for 18 minutes. The plates are individually packaged and clearly labeled with the product code, side, and hole count. Sterile-packaged versions can be manufactured upon request for large-volume orders, with an additional lead time of approximately 4–6 weeks. For urgent sterile requirements, we can also supply sterile screws through our manufacturing partners.

Q6: How do the plate bending instruments work, and is it recommended to bend the precontoured plates?
A: The instrument set includes two plate benders (codes 90000109 and 90000110) for occasional contouring adjustments. However, we emphasize that these plates are anatomically precontoured and generally should not require bending. The lateral proximal tibia plate is available in two curved surface options (large and small) to accommodate different patient anatomies, while the distal plates are pre-shaped to match the specific geometry of the medial or lateral tibial surface. Unnecessary bending may compromise the plate's fatigue life and the precision of the locking mechanism. We recommend using the appropriate precontoured plate for the patient's anatomy and reserving the benders for exceptional circumstances.