Compression forces generated by the Huene alignment guide alone.

To enhance the fixation of scaphoid fractures by providing precise alignment and compression at the fracture site, the Huene alignment guide has been used in conjunction with bone screws. In an effort to predict the compressive force generated by the Huene guide alone, these forces were measured with a calibrated, strain-gauge, instrumented device. Three orthopedic surgeons each tested the guide 10 times on one cadaver scaphoid bone specimen. The magnitude of the compressive forces generated ranged from 9.0 to 67.0 N (mean 36.0 +/- 15.0 N). Comparisons of the force measurements among the individuals revealed no significant differences. This wide range of measurements could be attributed to the variability of the ratchet mechanism on the device. Because the Huene alignment guide is used to generate transcaphoid compressive forces, these results demonstrate that it does not yield consistent compression.