Cannulated screws are a type of orthopedic screw that is different from other screws in that they have a hollow central shaft that enables them to be positioned over a guide wire. The design makes it easier to accomplish precise placement and alignment, which is especially helpful in surgical procedures that are either complex or minimally invasive.
Cannulated screws used in orthopedic treatments are available in a variety of different types.
According to the various bone types and fracture patterns, cannulated screws are available in a number of configurations. When it comes to cannulated screws, the following are the most common types that orthopedic surgeons have at their disposal:
Cortical Screws
Specifically designed for denser outer bone. Along their shaft, these screws typically have a full threading along their length. It is possible to use them as lag screws, which compress the fracture fragments in order to facilitate faster healing.
Cancellous Screws
Cancellous screws are designed to be used on cancellous bone, which is a type of bone that is softer and sponge-like. These screws have partial threads. This makes it possible to achieve a better purchase within the bone. The most common application for them is in the treatment of metaphyseal fractures, which involve the ends of long bones.
Design and Features
Hollow Core:
The screw can be guided over a wire or pin due to the central hollow shaft, which is part of the cannulation. This means the screw is placed correctly.
Thread Design:
In order to accommodate different kinds of bone, such as cortical or cancellous bone, the screw’s threads can be designed in a manner that allows for a variation in both pitch and design.
Materials:
Typically, the materials used in its construction are biocompatible materials like titanium, stainless steel, or bio-absorbable materials.
Additional Types of Cannulated Screws
Herbert Screws
These screws are meant to fix broken small bones, especially those in the wrist. They are hollow screws that hold broken bone pieces together without sticking out from the bone.
The Headless Compression Screws
Minor bone fractures, such as scaphoid fractures, are the primary indications for the use of this headless compression screw type. Their limited hardware prominence is accompanied by solid fixation.
Use case
The term “fracture fixation” refers to a technique that is frequently utilized for the purpose of securing fractures in both small bones, such as the wrist, ankle, and foot, and large bones, such as the femur and the tibia.
Arthrodesis is utilized in joint fusion procedures to stabilize and promote bone fusion.
Bones that have been surgically cut to correct deformities are repaired through the use of osteotomies.
The benefits
When it comes to precision, the guide wire guarantees accurate placement, which in turn reduces the possibility of misalignment.
Facilitates minimally invasive surgical techniques, which can result in shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain. Minimally invasive surgery is also known as minimally invasive surgery.
This allows them to be suitable for a wide variety of orthopedic procedures because they are available in a variety of sizes and designs.
Implantation Method
Preparation:
During the preparation phase, the fracture or surgical site is prepared, and imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy are utilized in order to plan the placement of the screw.
Guide Wire Insertion:
The insertion of a guide wire or pin into the bone is a procedure that ensures the correct alignment and positioning of the bone.
Drilling:
The process of drilling involves passing a cannulated drill over the guide wire in order to create a path for the screw.
Screw Placement:
In order to place the screw, the cannulated screw is initially advanced into the bone and then inserted over the guide wire.
Imagery is utilized in the process of verification in order to validate the appropriate placement and positioning of the screw.
Considerations
The quality of the bone and the nature of the fracture play an important part in determining the type of screw that should be used (partially threaded or fully threaded).
In order to make sure that the screws are positioned in the best possible manner, it must be done to use the appropriate technique when inserting the guide wire.
It is possible to remove cannulated screws if it is necessary to do so; however, removal requires precision so as to prevent damage to the bone and tissue that surrounds the screw.
Postoperative Care
Careful postoperative care, which includes regular monitoring and imaging, is required after the implantation of cannulated screws. This is necessary to ensure that the patient heals appropriately and to identify any potential issues at an early stage.
Directions for the Future
New Materials
Studies are being conducted on materials that integrate with bone more effectively and have lower infection risks.
Better Imaging Methods
Cannulated screw placement accuracy can be increased with the use of improved imaging methods.
Patient-Specific Implants
The development of patient-specific implants through advanced manufacturing techniques could further improve the fit and function of cannulated screws.
Wrapping It Up
Fractures and other bone-related procedures can be fixed with cannulated screws, which are a valuable tool in orthopedic surgery because they offer precision and versatility in the process. Because of their design, which enables guided insertion over a wire, they are especially useful in minimally invasive surgeries and in cases where accurate alignment is of the highest priority. In order to make effective use of these devices in the operating room, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the various types, applications, and procedural considerations.
Company Information
Among the many orthopedic implant manufacturers, Uteshiya Medicare stands out for its extensive product line that is customized to satisfy the unique requirements of contemporary orthopedic surgery. Uteshiya Medicare uses innovative materials and creative design elements to produce precision-engineered cannulated screws.
These screws are known for their optimal performance and positive patient results. Their biocompatible materials and cutting-edge manufacturing methods assure better fit, function, and longevity in their implants. When it comes to orthopedic implants, Uteshiya Medicare is still at the forefront of innovation and patient-specific solutions.
