Titanium-coated hollow screw and reconstruction plate system for bridging of lower jaw defects: biomechanical aspects.

The biomechanical and design principles of the titanium hollow screw and reconstruction plate (THRP) system are described. Physiologically advantageous load transmission, a biocompatible implant material with sufficient strength and a surface structure favorable to biological stabilization are discussed. The design of the fixation between the cross-split screwhead and the plate hole gives a rigid and stable plate fixation even without contact between plate underside and bone. Blood perfusion and bone strength will therefore not be affected. Full functional loading with only 2-3 fixation screws for each plate end is possible. Further technical advantages of the THRP system are the possibility of lingual plate application and integration of a three-dimensional adjustable condylar prothesis.