Elbow fractures remain one of themore difficult fractures for orthopaedic surgeons to treat These fractures are commonly intra-articular and/or involve poor bone quality, and therefore, achieving stability can be problematic. Stable fixation allows early motion which may lead to better functional outcomes1,2,3 At the same time, the limited soft tissue coverage and the distinct anatomic shape demands implants that can adapt to the anatomy. With this in mind, Stryker has developed the VariAx 2 Elbow implants: anatomically shaped, variable angled locking plates.
The range of distal humeral plates allows for the option to treat a fracture based on anatomy, surgeon preference, and fracture type.
The polyaxial locking technology works by using two different grades of titanium. Locking screws are made of titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) and when a screw is driven into a plate hole, the locking threads on the underside of the screw engage the circular ‘lip’ in the hole. Unlike monoaxial locking systems, where the screws follow a predetermined path, this technology allows the user to aim and lock the screw within a 30 degree cone. The plates are used with either 3.5mm or 2.7mm screws, giving the choice of screws size based on the anatomy and fracture pattern. Additionally, all screws in the system are inserted with the same T10 screwdriver for ease-of-use.
The VariAx 2 Platform is designed to offer a comprehensive, modular and easy-to-use platform for treating various small fragment applications including clavicle, humerus, radius, ulna, fibula, fore-/mid and hind foot.
Stryker's plating portfolio is 'plating that fits' because we carefully consider how our entire portfolio- plates, procedures and support- best fit your needs.
The VariAx 2 Mini Fragment plating system features a complete range of low profile plate and screw options in 2.0mm, 2.4mm and 2.7mm modules. Plates utilize SmartLock variable angle locking technology which permits polyaxial screw placement. T8 locking screws may be angled +/- 15º in any direction for up to a 30º cone. T6 locking screws may be angled +/- 10º in any direction for a total of 20º.
Learn moreThe VariAx 2 Clavicle Plating System provides surgeons with a comprehensive range of anatomic plating options that work with a common instrument and screw platform. Plates utilize SmartLock technology which permits polyaxial screw placement. You can angle locking screws up to 15˚ in each direction for a total range of 30˚ providing you with the flexibility to position screws based on the patient's needs, not on the plate's pre-existing design.
Learn moreThe VariAx 2 Distal Radius and VariAx 2 Distal Ulna Plating Systems provides you with a comprehensive range of anatomic plating options that work with a common instrument and screw platform. Plates utilize SmartLock technology which permits polyaxial screw placement. You can angle locking screws up to 15˚in each direction for a total range of 30˚ providing you with the flexibility to position screws based on the patient, not a plate’s pre-existing design.
Learn moreThe Stryker Hand Plating module houses the VariAx Hand Locking and Profyle Hand Systems which offer the benefits of a comprehensive range of variable angled locking and non-locking plating options to treat fractures of bones of the hand and wrist. Plates utilize SmartLock Technology which permits polyaxial screw placement. You can angle locking screws up to 10 degrees in each direction for a total range of 20 degrees providing you with the flexibility to position screws based on the patient's need, not a plate's pre-existing design.
Learn moreReferences:
VAX-AWI-23, 01-2023