What is the function of a cancellous screw?

The function of a cancellous screw is to screw into bone, specifically the spongy or cancellous bone found at the ends of long bones and within the interior of vertebrae. Cancellous screws are designed with a particular thread pattern that allows them to grip the porous structure of cancellous bone securely, providing stability and support for various orthopedic applications, such as securing plates, joint fixation, or aiding in fracture repair.

These screws typically have a larger thread pitch and a wider diameter than other types of screws, which helps distribute the load more evenly within the softer, less dense bone material. By effectively anchoring into the bone, they help maintain the proper alignment during the healing process, making their role critical in orthopedic surgeries and treatments.