Contribution
Acoustic Characterization of Intramedullary Screw Fixation in Bone
* Presenting author
Abstract:
A novel method for total elbow arthroplasty fixation employs intramedullary (IM) screws whose advancement pulls the implant into a bone cavity upon which cross-linkages between the implant and bone may occur. Torque application with a screw driver generates a tensile force that pulls the implant into bone. Thread engagement may be lost when the screw is tightened substantially, which is observed with a drop in applied torque. Using a bovine cadaver model, we will identify the torque that is required to generate screw thread pullout and measure the acoustic properties of the bone-screw interface. We will evaluate both the relationship between the torque required for screw advancement and the construct resonance frequency as well as impedance change during thread failure. The objective of this study is to identify acoustic indicators that may be employed to guide screw advancement so as to create a noninvasive measurement tool to quantify successful screw fixation and prevent screw thread purchase failure.