What does the term 'non-locking screw' refer to in veterinary instruments?

The term 'non-locking screw' specifically refers to a fastening mechanism that is used in orthopedic surgery and veterinary medicine to secure implants, such as plates or other fixation devices, to bone. Non-locking screws rely on friction between the screw threads and the material they are being driven into, allowing for some movement and flexibility. This design can be beneficial in certain cases where a degree of stability is required while still allowing for physiological motion at the fracture site.

In contrast to locking screws, which engage with a threaded plate to provide rigidity and stability, non-locking screws do not have this mechanism and, therefore, may not provide the same level of fixation. Their primary role is as part of a system to achieve temporary stability or alignment of bones or implants during the healing process. This distinction is fundamental in explaining how different surgical instruments function in veterinary orthopedic procedures.