Synthes 388.05 Orthopedic 3.5mm Quick Connect Tap 5-1/2" (New)

Synthes 388.05 Orthopedic 3.5mm Quick Connect Tap 5-1/2" (New)

• Model: 388.05
• 3.5mm
• Overall Length: 5-1/2 inches (13.9cm)

This Synthes 388.05 3.5 mm Quick‑Connect Tap is a surgical instrument used in orthopedic procedures to pre‑cut threads in bone for inserting 3.5 mm screws. The purpose of a tap is to cut the internal thread in a drilled hole so that the screw can engage cleanly, reducing insertion torque and helping proper alignment and seating. The “quick‑connect” feature means that the tap is designed to be used with a universal quick‑coupling handle or instrument hub, allowing rapid interchange of taps, drills, or other tools in the surgical field without needing different handles for each tool.

With an overall length of about 5‑1/2″ (approximately 140 mm), it is long enough to access sites that are moderately deep or where longer reach is required, yet not so long that control is compromised. The 3.5 mm dimension refers to the nominal screw (and hence tap) diameter; this is a frequently used size in small‑fragment orthopedic plating, small bone fixation etc. The threads are precision‑cut (or ground) with sharp flutes to ensure efficient cutting, clean threads, and minimal microdamage at the thread interface.

From a practical standpoint, the tap must maintain precise manufacture to ensure compatibility with the matching screws (to avoid stripping or loosened screw engagement). The quick‑connect design aids surgical workflow, reducing instrument swap‑out time. Surgeons and OR staff must ensure that it is properly sterilized, maintained (no burrs, no corrosion, no damage to the quick coupling interface), and that the threads are sharp. Given repeated use and sterilization cycles, it's important to inspect thread integrity regularly to avoid surgical complications (e.g. screw loosening, cross‑threading) when using the tap in critical fixation.

This medical equipment item is in pristine condition, untouched and sealed within its original packaging from the manufacturer. It has not been used or tampered with in any way since leaving the factory.