The CytroFIX Locking Plate System is INVAMED's titanium plate fixation platform, offering more than 200 size and shape configurations spanning fracture sites from the clavicle to the pelvis. This overview summarizes the system's design philosophy, locking mechanism, and general configuration range for clinicians reviewing plate fixation options.
What Is the CytroFIX Locking Plate System?
CytroFIX locking plates are anatomically contoured implants designed to stabilize fractures from the outer bone surface, secured using screws that thread directly into the plate itself rather than relying solely on compression against the bone. This "fixed-angle" construct is a defining feature of locking plate technology, distinguishing it from conventional (non-locking) plating.
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
What Anatomical Configurations Are Available?
INVAMED's locking plate portfolio spans a wide range of anatomical sites, including:
- Clavicle — anterior-medial plates with lateral extension options for superior-approach fixation
- Humerus — straight (shaft) plates for humeral shaft fracture patterns
- Radius — distal radius volar plates for wrist-area fractures
- Tibia — distal tibia medial and anterolateral plate configurations, including variable-angle locking options up to approximately ±15° in select hole configurations
- Femur — plate options for femoral fracture patterns not addressed by intramedullary nailing
- Pelvis — pelvic reconstruction plates for pelvic ring and acetabular fracture stabilization
Across these anatomical families, the system offers more than 200 individual plate configurations, allowing surgeons to select a plate shape, length, and hole pattern suited to the specific fracture and patient anatomy.
How Does the Locking Mechanism Work?
In a locking plate construct, screw heads feature threading that engages corresponding threads within the plate holes, creating a rigid, angular-stable connection between screw and plate. This design does not depend on friction between the plate undersurface and bone for stability, which can be particularly advantageous in osteoporotic bone, comminuted (multi-fragment) fractures, or metaphyseal fracture patterns where conventional compression plating may be less effective.
Many CytroFIX plates also accommodate a combination of locking and non-locking (conventional) screws within the same plate, giving surgeons flexibility to use compression technique in simple fracture patterns while relying on locking fixation in more complex regions of the same construct.
What Design Features Support Soft Tissue Preservation?
CytroFIX plates are generally designed with a low-profile contour intended to minimize soft tissue irritation, along with anatomically shaped geometry that reduces the need for extensive intraoperative plate bending. Some configurations also feature undersurface geometry intended to reduce periosteal contact, a design consideration associated with preserving local blood supply to the underlying bone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many plate configurations does the CytroFIX system offer?
The CytroFIX locking plate line includes more than 200 configurations spanning clavicle, humerus, radius, femur, tibia, and pelvic anatomical regions.
What is the difference between locking and conventional plates?
Locking plates use screws that thread directly into the plate to form a fixed-angle construct, while conventional plates rely on compression between the plate and bone surface for stability. Each approach has distinct clinical applications discussed in more detail in INVAMED's dedicated comparison resource.
What material are CytroFIX plates made from?
CytroFIX locking plates are manufactured from Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy, consistent with the material used across INVAMED's broader orthopedic trauma implant line.
Related INVAMED Resources
- Orthopedic & Trauma Solutions — full fracture fixation portfolio
- Locking Plates vs Conventional Plates — comparison of plate fixation approaches
- Contact INVAMED — request the IFU and technical specifications
Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. It is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Product indications, availability, and regulatory status vary by country. Always refer to the official Instructions for Use (IFU) and consult a licensed physician for guidance specific to your situation. INVAMED devices are intended for use by trained healthcare professionals.