Use of the Herbert bone screw in surgery of the wrist.

The Herbert bone screw is a new device, designed to produce compression and rigid fixation of small cancellous bone fragments. Being completely buried within the bone, it may be introduced through the articular surface of the joint. A second operation to remove the implant is not required. Although originally developed for fixation of scaphoid fractures, its use has been extended to other carpal bones and small joint fusions in the hand and wrist. The author's experience with this technique shows that excellent results may be achieved when rigid internal fixation allows for early mobilization of the wrist and hand.