Influence of fracture morphology and working length on shear motion and construct stiffness in osteosynthesis constructs

Realistic fractures exhibit complex and direction-dependent stabilization mechanisms that are not captured by osteotomized models. Working length strongly influences construct behavior across all configurations. This study highlights the biomechanical differences between osteotomized and realistic fractures. Osteotomized models remain valuable as reproducible worst-case scenarios, whereas realistic fractures provide complementary insights by capturing stabilizing mechanisms such as fragment interlocking. Both approaches should therefore be combined in biomechanical research. Clinically, the results underline the importance of anatomical reduction and fixation planning to maximize construct stability.