OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of pilot hole tapping on pullout resistance and insertional torque of dual core pedicle screws. METHODS: Mechanical assays using a universal testing machine were performed on dual core screws inserted into fifth lumbar calf vertebrae. The insertion torque was measured by torque meter with capacity of 10 Nm, which was considered the highest value of torque. The pilot holes were prepared using a 3.8 mm diameter probe and tapping of the same size and thread characteristics as the implant. RESULTS: A decrease of the insertion torque and pullout strength were observed in the group of screws whose pilot holes were tapped. CONCLUSIONS: Tapping pilot holes reduced the insertion torque and pullout strength of dual core pedicle screws.
Spine; Bone Screws; Biochemanics
