Orthopedic Herbert screws are a specialized type of surgical implant used to treat fractures in the hand and wrist. They are named after Timothy James Herbert, who developed them in the 1970s. These screws are designed to provide stable fixation for small, delicate bones in the hand and wrist.

Orthopedic Herbert Screws – An Overview

Orthopedic Herbert screws are a specialized type of surgical implant designed for repairing fractures in small bones, particularly those in the hand and foot. These screws are characterized by their small size and unique shape, which allows them to be inserted into the bone without drilling a pilot hole. This minimally invasive approach helps to preserve bone tissue and reduce the risk of complications associated with traditional screw placement.

Herbert screws are often used in conjunction with other surgical techniques, such as pinning or wiring, to provide additional stability to fractured bones. They are particularly effective in treating fractures of the metacarpals and metatarsals, which are the bones that form the framework of the fingers and toes.

What Are the Advantages of Herbert Screws?

1. Excellent Stability: Herbert screws are known for their exceptional stability in fixing small bone fragments. Their design, with a cannulated shaft and self-tapping threads, allows for secure fixation without the need for pre-drilling, which can weaken the bone.
2. Minimal Invasiveness: Herbert screws are typically inserted through small incisions, making them a minimally invasive surgical option. This minimizes the risk of complications and promotes faster healing.
3. Versatile Applications: These screws can be used to treat a variety of hand and wrist fractures, including metacarpal fractures, phalangeal fractures, and scaphoid fractures. Their versatility makes them a valuable tool for orthopedic surgeons.
4. Rapid Healing: Due to their stability and minimal invasiveness, Herbert screws can often lead to faster healing and improved hand function compared to other treatment options.
5. Low Risk of Complications: Herbert screws have a relatively low risk of complications, such as infection, nerve injury, or hardware failure. However, complications are associated with almost all surgeries. 

What Are the Disadvantages of Herbert Screws?

1. Limited Size: Herbert screws are available in a limited range of sizes, which may not be suitable for all types of fractures. In some cases, larger screws or other fixation methods may be necessary.
2. Potential for Hardware Removal: While Herbert screws are often left in place permanently, there may be situations where they need to be removed. This can involve additional surgery and carries its own risks.
3. Cost: Herbert screws can be relatively expensive, especially when multiple screws are required. This can impact the overall cost of the surgical procedure.
4. Limited Evidence: While Herbert screws have been used successfully for many years, there may be a lack of extensive scientific research to support their effectiveness in certain fracture patterns.

Conclusion

Orthopedic Herbert screws are a valuable surgical tool for treating fractures in the hand and wrist. They offer excellent stability, minimal invasiveness, and rapid healing. However, it is important to consider the potential limitations and risks associated with their use. The decision to use Herbert screws should be made in consultation with an orthopedic surgeon who can assess the specific needs of the patient and the type of fracture.Siora Surgicals Pvt. Ltd. is a renowned manufacturer and supplier of a high-quality range of trauma implants and instruments including Herbert cannulated screws. Operating for over 3 decades, the company is also looking for reliable distributors of orthopedic implants in Thailand.