Herbert screw
Pronunciation: HER-bert skroo
A specialized headless compression screw designed for internal fixation of small bone fractures, particularly scaphoid fractures.
Full Definition
The Herbert screw is a cannulated, headless screw with differential thread pitches that provides compression across fracture sites while sitting flush with or below the bone surface. Originally developed for scaphoid fracture fixation, it has become the gold standard for treating scaphoid nonunions and acute unstable scaphoid fractures. The screw's design allows for percutaneous insertion with minimal soft tissue disruption, and its headless configuration prevents impingement with surrounding structures.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize 'Herbert' as it is named after the inventor. Specify screw diameter (e.g., 2.4mm, 3.0mm) when documenting surgical procedures.
In Context
- "A 3.0mm Herbert screw was placed percutaneously under fluoroscopic guidance for the scaphoid waist fracture." — Surgical procedure note
- "The Herbert screw placement showed excellent compression across the fracture site on postoperative imaging." — Post-operative assessment