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Additional information: d9, g3, h3, h6.One unpackaged part, ar-8963ar-16 anterolateral distal tibia plate, right, ss, 16h, batch number 1068582251, was received for investigation.During visual inspection, the plate was found to be fractured at hole number 5.Additional damage, including localized thread deformation and nicks, was observed in several holes, likely resulting from screw insertion and extraction.Scratches all around the polished surface were noted.A functional assessment was conducted by testing several of the returned screws into the corresponding plate holes.The screws engaged the threaded interfaces without resistance, and each fastener seated flush against the plate surface, indicating that the thread geometry and countersink profiles remained within functional tolerance.The thickness of both plate pieces was measured in accordance with drawing c5108, revision 6, component c5108-28, revision 6.Specification.0.079 ± 0.005 inches.The most likely cause of the reported failure is a patient-specific event involving inadequate adherence to postoperative protocols intended to protect the plate.Postoperative care protocols should be individualized for each patient to support proper healing and minimize undue mechanical loading on the implant.The reported failure was most likely the result of one or a combination of the following factors: failure to restrict lifestyle or physical activity demands.Inadequate adherence to postoperative instructions.Failure to adequately restrict activities during the prescribed healing period can lead to excessive loading on the implant.Patients who resume high-impact activities or physically demanding work prematurely may subject the plate and fixation site to forces that exceed the implant¿s mechanical tolerance, potentially leading to loosening, bending, or breakage.Delayed union or nonunion at the fusion site.Delayed union, nonunion, or incomplete healing increases the mechanical burden on the implant, which may result in breakage or structural compromise.These conditions typically develop within the first 3¿6 months postoperatively.Implant migration, bending, or breakage due to improper or excessive loading.Implants may migrate, bend, or fracture if subjected to trauma or mechanical loads beyond their intended design envelope.Postoperative trauma.Additional injury following surgery can compromise implant integrity and contribute to mechanical failure.Excessive or prolonged loading.Implants are not designed to support the full physiological load of the patient for extended durations.Inadequate biological healing (e.G., delayed union or nonunion) can shift the load bearing demand onto the implant, increasing the likelihood of breakage or damage.Postoperative management considerations: weight bearing progression typically allows full weight bearing at approximately six weeks, with transition to a functional brace as tolerated.Postoperative management should always be tailored to the individual patient based on clinical presentation and the treating professional¿s assessment.Protocols may vary based on patient specific factors and surgeon preference.Patients should follow the surgeon¿s instructions and monitor for signs of infection, loss of function, or delayed healing.Directions for use, dfu-0192-eo revision 9, arthrex plates e.Warnings: 6.Postoperatively and until healing is complete, fixation provided by this device should be considered as temporary and may not withstand weight bearing or other unsupported stress.The fixation provided by this device should be protected.The postoperative regimen prescribed by the physician should be strictly followed to avoid adverse stresses applied to the device.9.Detailed instructions on the use and limitations of this device should be given to the patient.The complaint allegation was confirmed.Refer to the investigation pictures.
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