A lag screw is a type of fastener used in woodworking and in construction. These screws have a steel core and a galvanized zinc coating, which protects the screw from corrosion and provides increased strength. The coating also allows the screw to bind to the wood, making it more durable and long-lasting. The screw is also easy to use, as it requires no predrilling. The screw is also easy to cut, which makes it a popular choice for many projects.
Lag screws are available with hex heads or flat heads. The latter are easier to remove and may require a driver bit or ratchet to install. A hex head lag screw requires a hex wrench or drill to install and tighten.
The lag screw technique is effective in stabilizing oblique fractures of the mandible. It is easy to perform and less invasive than bone plate fixation. It can reduce extensor tendon and sensory nerve adhesion. It can also provide comparable stiffness to bone plate fixation. However, the technique is less precise in the symphysis and body regions because of the presence of vital structures around them. The use of lag screws in oblique and saggital fractures of the mandible requires proper patient selection and careful instrumentation. In all patients treated with lag screws, good occlusion was achieved and effective bony union was visualized on radiographs. There were no complications such as infection or neurosensory deficits. In two cases of symphysis and one of angle fractures, intermaxillary fixation was advised for 2 weeks because of mild occlusal discrepancy and mobility. Lag screw