An emergency multisystem screw removal module.

Abstract

There are several practical indications for the removal of screws and plates from the reconstructive patient. For the craniomaxillofacial surgeon there exists a wide array of screw and plating systems available. As patients relocate, it is unlikely that individual hospitals have the full collection of rigid fixation systems in their inventory. Therefore, a universal screw removal system was designed to facilitate the elective and emergency removal of all existing craniomaxillofacial fixation hardware. This system is a self-contained module containing a single handle and 12 interchangeable screwdriver blades. The universal screw and plate removal system has been used successfully in several patients--children as well as adults--in whom hardware was removed.