Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for fastening one element to another, particularly adapted for orthopedic use, wherein the fastener is structurally adapted to be driven into a member somewhat like a nail and to be secured therein by rotating the fastener through a predetermined angular displacement to secure threads on the fastener in the thus-fastened member. The fastener is thus readily removable by counter-rotating the device a like amount. In one embodiment, the fastener includes a head portion structurally adapted to receive a force axially applied to the fastener, a tip portion structurally adapted for leading the fastener into a member to be fastened, and a shank portion disposed between the head portion and the tip portion. The shank portion includes a thread-bearing zone and a thread-free zone circumferentially spaced about the shank portion which together comprise the entire circumference of the shank. The ratio of the thread-bearing zone to the thread-free zone is such that the shank portion is structurally adapted to be driven into the member to be fastened. In a preferred embodiment, the fastener includes a pair of opposed thread-bearing zones spaced intermediate a pair of opposed thread-free zones each occupying 90.degree. of angular displacement about the shank. The angular displacement of a thread-bearing zone may lie in the range of about 120.degree. to 240.degree.. Such a fastener is particularly adapted for use in orthopedic procedures. Various head and shank configurations, including a thread profile particularly suited for orthopedic work, are also disclosed.

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First Claim