Comparative Bending Strength of Metacarpal Neck Fractures Fixed with Two Types of Intramedullary Screws

Document Type : RESEARCH PAPER

Authors

1 Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

2 Drexel University Department of Mechanical Engineering, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Abstract

Objectives: Intramedullary (IM) screw fixation of metacarpal fractures is a technique, which has gained 
in popularity owing to its simplicity, speedy rehabilitation, and good functional outcomes. A new, larger 
diameter, non-compression screw designed specifically for IM metacarpal fixation was recently 
introduced which could provide better fracture stability and reduce the risk of hardware failure. Our goal 
was to evaluate the strength of this screw compared to a first-generation screw.
Methods: This mechanical study was designed to compare a 4.5 mm metacarpal headless screw (MCHS) to data 
from our prior research evaluating a 3.0 mm headless screw (HS). Accordingly, we used identical bone models, 
testing constructs, equipment, and protocols. A metacarpal neck osteotomy was created in 10 Sawbones models. 
A 4.5 mm x 50 mm MCHS was inserted retrograde to stabilize the fracture. Flexion bending strength was measured 
through a cable tension construct on a materials testing machine. Failure mechanism and strength was recorded 
and compared to data with a 3.0 mm screw construct.
Results: Eight models failed by bending of the intramedullary screw. Two models failed by rotation of the metacarpal 
head. Failure occurred at an average of 539 N (Range 315 – 735 N). The MCHS demonstrated a significantly greater 
load to failure compared to the previously studied 3.0 mm HS at 215 N (P<0.05). 
Conclusion: A larger, 4.5 mm metacarpal-specific headless screw is more than twice as strong as a 3.0 mm 
diameter screw in a metacarpal neck fracture model.
 Level of evidence: II

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 11, Issue 7
July 2023
Pages 448-452

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History

  • Receive Date: 19 September 2022
  • Revise Date: 31 October 2022
  • Accept Date: 12 January 2023

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