US Patent 7331263 Surgical screwdrivers with torque control and methods of use

The present application is directed to screwdrivers and methods of use for applying a controlled amount of torque to a fastener. In one embodiment, the screwdriver includes a shaft constructed of a material that is deformable upon the application of an excessive amount of torque. The deformation may cause the screwdriver to disengage from the fastener. In one embodiment, the tip of the shaft that engages the fastener is constructed of a material that deforms when an excessive amount of torque is applied to the fastener. The deformation causes the tip to disengage from the fastener. The deformation prevents the screwdriver from applying an amount of torque above a predetermined limit.