Mechanical strength of Jewett and McLaughlin hip nail plates manufactured from cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloy. A biomechanical study of unstable trochanteric fractures. IV.

Jewett and McLaughlin hip nail plates were mechanically tested, and the mode of failure of both types of implants are described and discussed in this communication. Mechanical problems at the nail plate junction in the present design of the McLaughlin implant seem to make it unsuitable for internal fixation of unstable trochanteric fractures, but Jewett nail plates with angles of 125 degrees or 135 degrees can be recommended for this purpose.