A biomechanical comparison of headless tapered variable pitch and AO cortical bone screws for fixation of a simulated slab fracture in equine third carpal bones.
Authors: Bueno Aloisio C D, Galuppo Larry D, Taylor Kenneth T, Jensen David G, Stover Susan M
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary Third carpal bone slab fractures represent a significant injury in performance horses, yet optimal fixation methods remain debated among equine surgeons. Researchers conducted a biomechanical comparison of two screw systems—headless tapered Acutrak compression screws versus standard AO cortical bone screws—by creating simulated complete radial facet slab fractures in equine third carpal bones and testing each fixation method's load-bearing capacity. The Acutrak screws demonstrated superior shear strength and stiffness compared to AO screws in lag fashion, whilst also requiring less insertion time and torque, making them mechanically advantageous for this particular fracture configuration. These findings suggest that headless compression screws may provide more reliable stabilisation of carpal slab fractures, potentially reducing complications associated with inadequate fixation and improving return-to-function outcomes in racehorses and sport horses. Farriers and surgical teams should consider these biomechanical advantages when selecting implants for third carpal bone repair, particularly in high-performance animals where fracture site stability directly influences prognosis.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •This study provides biomechanical data on two different screw types used for third carpal bone slab fractures, helping surgeons select implants based on mechanical performance characteristics
- •Understanding the insertion torques and forces required for each screw type can guide surgical technique and reduce complications during fracture fixation
- •Results should inform clinical decision-making for choosing between compression screws and cortical bone screws in equine carpal fracture repair
Key Findings
- •Mechanical comparison of headless tapered variable pitch screws versus AO cortical bone screws for C3 slab fracture fixation
- •In vitro testing evaluated shear strength and stiffness of two screw fixation methods in simulated frontal plane fractures
- •Drilling, tapping, screw insertion torques, forces, and insertion times were measured and compared between implant types