Effects of lag screw design and lubrication on sliding in trochanteric nails

This study compared the sliding characteristics of three lag screw designs used with trochanteric nails and determined the effects of lubrication on sliding. They were tested by an established method to measure initiation and ease of lag screw sliding. These tests were then repeated with calf serum lubrication. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the loads required to initiate lag screw sliding that appeared to be related to design. Screw sliding was similar for all three designs; however, the presence of lag screw locking slots affected sliding in that region. Lubrication did not affect either parameter. Lag screw design aspects, such as diameter and, particularly, surface finish, affect sliding. Due to the small contact area between the lag screw and nail creating high interface stresses, lubrication had no effect on lag screw sliding.