Optimizing bone screw pullout force.
Stability of internal fixation by plate and screw depends on the interface of bone and screw threads. Bone-screw thread design was tested in a synthetic bone model to determine maximum bone-screw pullout force. The model was confirmed to provide reproducible results in a clinically relevant range. Consistent material properties were reflected in the relatively small standard deviations in pullout force, which were less than 10% of mean values. As expected, major diameter was an important determinant of pullout force in a roughly linear manner. Pitch was important with a finer thread giving greater purchase. Minor diameter and the ratio of major to minor diameter had a small but significant effect on pullout force. This study was significant for establishing a good bone-screw testing model and suggesting important thread parameters in selecting or manufacturing a bone screw to optimize its holding power.
DeCoster
T A
TA
Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque 87131.
Heetderks
D B
DB
Downey
D J
DJ
Ferries
J S
JS
Jones
W
W
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001863:Bone Screws; D004867:Equipment Design; D004868:Equipment Failure; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans