Screw pullout
Mechanical failure where a screw loses its hold in bone, often due to poor bone quality or excessive loading.
Full Definition
Screw pullout is a mechanical complication in orthopedic fixation where a screw loses its purchase in bone and becomes loose or completely dislodged from its original position. This failure typically occurs due to poor bone quality (osteoporosis), inadequate screw length or diameter, excessive loading of the construct, or improper screw placement. Screw pullout can lead to loss of reduction, implant failure, and the need for revision surgery with alternative fixation strategies such as longer screws, bone grafting, or different implant designs.
Usage
Usage note: More common in osteoporotic bone or when screws are placed in poor-quality bone regions.
In Context
- "Screw pullout was evident on the latest radiographs, necessitating revision surgery." — Complication assessment
- "To prevent screw pullout in this osteoporotic patient, locking screws and bone cement augmentation were used." — Operative report