Abstract
The scaphoid is the most often fractured carpal bone. Scaphoid fracture repair with a headless compression screw allows for early functional recovery. The rotational stability of a single screw may be limited, having a potential negative impact on the healing process. Two novel screws have been designed to provide improved rotational stability compared to the existing ones. Using a computational finite element model of a scaphoid osteotomy, we compared the efficacy of one simple screw and the two new screws in restricting inter-fragmentary motion (IFM) in three functional positions of the wrist and as a function of inter-fragmentary compression force. The in-plane IFM was primary rotational and was better restricted by the new screws compared to the conventional one when the inter-fragmentary compression force was below 15–20 N, but provided no clear benefit in total flexion independently of the compression force. To better understand the differences in the non-compressed case, we analyzed the acting moments and investigated the effects of the bending and torsional screw stiffness on IFM. By efficiently restricting the inter-fragmentary shear, the new screws may be clinically advantageous when the inter-fragmentary compression force is partially or completely lost and may provide further benefits toward earlier and better healing of transverse waist fractures of the scaphoid.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
