Professional
Technical
IVT
Syndesmosis screw
A large-diameter screw used to temporarily stabilize the tibiofibular syndesmosis after ankle injury.
Full Definition
A syndesmosis screw is a large-diameter cortical screw (typically 3.5mm or 4.5mm) placed across the tibia and fibula to maintain proper alignment of the tibiofibular syndesmosis following ankle fractures or ligamentous injuries. These screws are usually placed 1-2cm above the ankle joint and may engage three or four cortices. They provide temporary stabilization while the syndesmotic ligaments heal and are often removed after 6-12 weeks to restore normal ankle motion.
Usage
Usage note: Removal timing varies by surgeon preference and patient factors.
In Context
- "A 3.5mm syndesmosis screw was placed to maintain the mortise reduction." — Operative report
- "The patient is scheduled for syndesmosis screw removal at 12 weeks postoperatively." — Clinic note
Also known as
tib-fib screw
trans-syndesmotic screw
Don't confuse with
lag screw
cortical screw