Abstract: Self-tapping screw for small-bone surgery, comprising a threaded proximal head (2), a threaded distal shank with greater pitch and an internal cannula (4), characterized in that the distal shank (3) is threaded over its entire length in that the end of the shank has, apart from milled portions forming self-tapping faces on the first distal threads, at least two milled faces and which with the cannula, determine at least two notches (11) and at least two self-boring edges at the distal end of the screw, and in that the thread of the head has, aside from milled portions forming self-tapping faces on the first threads of the proximal screw thread, chamfered faces (16-19), determining boring edges (12b-15b) preceded by a short groove.

Abstract: An improved process is provided for flash-spinning plexifilamentary film-fibril strands of a fiber-forming polyolefin from a C4-7 hydrocarbon/co-solvent spin liquid that, if released to the atmosphere, presents a greatly reduced ozone depletion hazard, as compared to the halocarbon spin liquids currently-used commercially for making such strands. The resulting plexifilamentary film-fibril strands have increased tenacity and improved fibrillation compared to strands flash-spun from 100% hydrocarbon spin liquids.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a flash spun plexifilamentary strand material comprising blends of thermoplastic material including polyethylene and polypropylene, the resulting strand has a unique morphology comprising a three dimensional integral plexus of semicrystalline fibrous elements.

Abstract: A screw device for the coaptation of two small bone fragments includes a threaded proximal head part and a threaded distal part, the proximal part having a diameter greater than the distal part and having a thread pitch smaller than that of the distal part. The distal part is threaded over substantially its entire length and a short length smooth portion is provided between the proximal and distal parts. The upper edges of the threads of the two threaded parts are perpendicular to the axis of the thread, while their lower edges are oblique, and each threaded part has at its base at least one tapping notch. An axial channel is provided in the screw for permitting the use of a guide pin.