The bioresorbable syndesmotic screw: application of polymer technology in ankle fractures.

Stuart D. Miller, Roy J. Carls

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

A bioresorbable syndesmotic screw was used successfully for fixation in 4 patients, 3 with a bimalleolar Weber type-C ankle fracture and 1 with a Maisonneuve-type injury. The 5-mm screw consisted of a polyglycolic acid/polylactic acid copolymer placed in standard fashion at the time of open reduction and internal fixation. The patients healed without difficulty, and follow-up radiographs showed anatomic maintenance of the syndesmotic space. There were no resorption problems. Signs of minimal irritation were noted at the screw-head site in 2 patients at 3 to 4 months after surgery, but the irritation did not hamper activity or rehabilitation. The screws maintained alignment. Preliminary results suggest that a larger study to further evaluate the effect of this screw is appropriate.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)18-21
Number of pages4
JournalAmerican journal of orthopedics (Belle Mead, N.J.)
Volume31
Issue number1 Suppl
StatePublished - Jan 2002
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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