ANSWERS

1. List 3 advantages of internal fixation.
   • Accurate.
   • Versatile.
   • Early return to full functional limb use.
2. List 3 disadvantages of internal fixation.
   • Time consuming and technically demanding.
   • Expensive.
   • Risk of infection.
3. What is the name of the intramedullary pin that is the most commonly used internal fixation device in small animal orthopaedic surgery?
   Steinman pin.
4. What is the main difference between Kirschner wires and arthrodesis wires?
   Kirschner wires have a flattened point, whilst arthrodesis wires possess a trocar point.
5. What is the name of the highly specialised curved pin that is used to anchor small epiphyseal fragments back onto the shaft of a bone?
   Rush pin.
6. What is the main function of cerclage wire?
   It is often used in combination with pins and plates to improve fracture stability.
7. State the 2 most common types of bone plate that are held in place by self-tapping screws.
   • Sherman plate.
   • Venables plate.
8. State 3 advantages of the use of dynamic compression plates.
   • Better resistance.
   • Better contact.
   • Use tapped screws that can easily be removed and replaced without causing undue weakening to the bone.
9. How can ASIF screws be easily identified?
   They are blunt and have a hexagonal pattern.

Further information regarding orthopaedic instruments can be found in Part II - Chapter 8 - Theatre Practice.