Bone transport device

Abstract

A bone transport device for transporting a bone segment is provided. The bone transport device includes an elongated shaft, a tubular housing surrounding the elongated shaft, a slider slidably mounted on the elongated shaft within the housing, an actuator configured to axially slide the slider along a sliding segment of the elongated shaft, and a first cable portion fixedly connected to a bone connector located outside the tubular housing. The first cable portion is also fixedly connected to the slider within the tubular housing, and the first cable portion is configured to transmit a sliding force to the bone connector as the slider moves along the sliding segment of the elongated shaft. The bone transport device is characterized in that the sliding segment is encircled by a solid portion of the tubular housing, and the first cable portion passes through a first hole in a tube wall of the tubular housing. The invention also provides a bone transport device characterized in that the slider is rotationally fixed relative to the tubular housing. The invention also provides a method of transporting a bone segment using the bone transport device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a bone transport device, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a bone transport device for distraction osteogenesis. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that bone transport devices, such as bone lengthening screws, can be used to lengthen bones. Bone lengthening screws can be implanted into the medullary cavity of a bone and are used to lengthen the bone through distraction osteogenesis. Specifically, the bone lengthening screw gradually separates (i.e., distracts) bone fragments, thereby bridging the gaps between the separated bone fragments with newly formed bone tissue. The formation of new bone tissue (i.e., osteogenesis) allows the bone to be lengthened.

[0003] The bone lengthening screw can have a tubular housing that surrounds a screw mechanism consisting of a slender lead screw and a nut corresponding to its threads, with the lead screw passing through the nut. In use, rotation of the lead screw about its longitudinal axis causes the nut to move axially along the length of the lead screw. The bone lengthening screw can be motorized, such that the rotation of the lead screw is driven by a motor housed within the tubular housing of the bone lengthening screw. This motor can be controlled externally by the patient, for example, by a magnetic field or by electronic signals transmitted to the motor.

[0004] Bone blocks (plates) can be attached to a nut directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more screws), such that the axial movement of the nut is transmitted to the bone block to transport it along the length of the bone extension nail. Both attachment methods require one or more relatively large (e.g., elongated) slots in the tubular shell to expose a portion of the nut or allow the screws to pass through. Therefore, these types of bone extension nails are susceptible to corrosion from bodily fluids entering the tubular shell through the relatively large slots. Furthermore, the relatively large slots in the tubular shell structurally weaken it.

[0005] In view of the above considerations, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, a bone transport device is provided for transporting bone fragments, the bone transport device comprising: Slender shaft; A tubular housing surrounding the elongated shaft; A slider is slidably mounted on the elongated shaft within the housing; An actuator configured to cause the slider to slide axially along a sliding segment of the elongated shaft; A first cable portion, which can be fixedly connected to a bone connector located outside the tubular housing, and the first cable portion can also be fixedly connected to the slider inside the tubular housing; The first cable portion is configured to transmit sliding force to the bone connector when the slider moves along the sliding segment of the elongated axis; The bone transport device is characterized in that the sliding section is surrounded by the solid portion of the tubular housing, and the first cable portion passes through a first hole in the wall of the tubular housing.

[0007] Thus, when the slider slides axially along the elongated axis, the sliding force is transmitted to the bone block via the first cable portion and the bone connector, thereby axially transporting the bone block. Therefore, the bone transport device can be used to perform distraction osteogenesis.

[0008] As mentioned above, the ingress of bodily fluids into the bone transport device is undesirable, as it would create a corrosive environment inside the device. The solid portion of the tubular housing is not perforated, thus isolating the interior of the bone transport device from external fluids. Therefore, by arranging the tubular housing such that the solid portion surrounds the sliding section of the elongated shaft, the risk of bodily fluids entering the housing is reduced. Furthermore, surrounding the sliding section with the solid portion of the tubular housing increases the torsional stiffness and bending strength of the tubular housing, thereby providing a stronger and more robust bone transport device overall.

[0009] The optional features of the invention are discussed below. Unless a certain combination is obviously unfeasible or explicitly excluded, the invention includes combinations of the described aspects and optional features.

[0010] As described above, the first cable portion is configured to transmit a sliding force to the bone connector as the slider moves along the sliding segment of the elongated shaft. Therefore, in some examples, the first cable portion may be configured to transmit a tensile force, causing the slider to pull the bone connector as it moves along the sliding segment of the elongated shaft. Additionally or alternatively, the first cable portion may be configured to transmit a compressive force, causing the slider to push the bone connector as it moves along the sliding segment of the elongated shaft. In use, the bone connector is connected to the bone block. Therefore, the movement of the bone connector transports the bone block connected to it. Thus, the first cable portion may be configured to transmit compressive and / or tensile forces to achieve bone transport. In use, the first cable portion may be taut (i.e., under tension) to transmit the tensile force.

[0011] The sliding section of the slender shaft is the portion of the slender shaft along which the slider is configured to slide.

[0012] The first cable portion may pass around the first hole and may include an inner section extending substantially axially from the slider to the first hole and an outer section extending adjacent to the solid portion of the housing. That is, the first cable portion may extend both internally and externally relative to the tubular housing, and its entry / exit point on the tubular housing is the first hole.

[0013] The outer segment of the first cable portion may be radially stacked on top of the inner segment of the first cable portion, such that the outer segment is substantially parallel to the inner segment in the axial direction, and a straight line extending radially passes through both the outer segment and the inner segment. The outer segment may be spaced apart from the inner segment by at least the wall thickness of the tubular shell extending between them radially.

[0014] By passing through the first hole, the axial direction of the inner segment can be opposite to that of the outer segment. That is, the first hole can serve as a turning point for the first cable portion, causing it to extend in the opposite axial direction at the first hole. The first hole may include a first turning edge around which the first cable portion wraps during use. The first turning edge can be a convex bend, such as a smooth convex bend. This facilitates sliding of the first cable portion on the smooth convex bend. In effect, the first turning edge functions as a pulley.

[0015] The bone transport device may further include a first pulley, wherein the first cable portion surrounds the first pulley. The first pulley may be located within or at the first hole. The first pulley may be provided as an alternative to a first turning edge of the first hole, so that the first cable portion can pass around through the first hole. The first pulley may be mounted to the tubular housing via a first pin. The first pin may pass through the first pulley and extend across the first hole.

[0016] The bone transport device may further include a second cable portion, which is fixedly connected to the bone connector located outside the tubular housing. The second cable portion is also fixedly connected to the slider within the tubular housing. The second cable portion may be configured to transmit a sliding force to the bone connector as the slider moves along the sliding section of the elongated axis. The second cable portion may pass through a second hole in the wall of the tubular housing. Advantageously, the second cable portion can improve stability during bone transport, reducing the risk of displacement of the bone block in directions other than the axial direction, thereby reducing the risk of misalignment. Similar to the first cable portion, the second cable portion may be configured to transmit pressure and / or tension to achieve bone transport. In use, the second cable portion may be taut (i.e., under tension) to transmit the tension.

[0017] The second cable portion may pass around the second hole. The second cable portion may include an inner section extending substantially axially from the slider to the second hole and an outer section extending adjacent to the solid portion of the tubular housing. That is, similar to the first cable portion, the second cable portion may extend both internally and externally relative to the tubular housing, and its entry / exit point on the tubular housing is the second hole. The outer section of the second cable portion may overlap the inner section of the second cable portion in the radial direction such that the outer section of the second cable portion is substantially parallel to the inner section of the second cable portion in the axial direction, and a straight line extending radially passes through both the outer section and the inner section. The outer section may be spaced from the inner section by at least the wall thickness of the tubular housing extending radially between them.

[0018] By passing through the second hole, the axial direction of the inner segment of the second cable portion can be opposite to the axial direction of the outer segment of the second cable portion. That is, the second hole can serve as a turning point for the second cable portion, causing it to extend in the opposite axial direction at the second hole. The second hole may include a second turning edge. The second turning edge may be a convex bend, such as a smooth convex bend, around which the second cable portion wraps during use. This facilitates sliding of the second cable portion on the second turning edge. The shape and / or size of the second turning edge may be the same as the first turning edge.

[0019] The bone transport device may further include a second pulley. The second pulley may be provided as an alternative to the second steering edge to allow the second cable portion to pass around and through the second hole. The second cable portion may surround the second pulley. The second pulley may be located within or at the second hole. The second pulley may be identical to the first pulley. The second pulley may be mounted to the tubular housing via a second pin. The second pin may pass through the second pulley and extend across the second hole.

[0020] The bone transport device may include a first sealing element located at the first orifice to seal the interior of the bone transport device (i.e., the interior of the tubular housing) to prevent bodily fluids from entering the bone transport device. The first sealing element may seal against the wall of the first orifice. The first sealing element may also seal against the first cable portion and / or the first steering edge and / or the first pulley.

[0021] The bone transport device may further include a second sealing element. The second sealing element may be located at the second orifice to seal the interior of the bone transport device (i.e., the interior of the tubular housing), thereby preventing bodily fluids from entering the bone transport device. The second sealing element may abut against the wall of the second orifice for sealing. The second sealing element may also abut against the second cable portion and / or the second steering edge and / or the second pulley for sealing.

[0022] The first cable section and the second cable section can together form a continuous cable loop, which is fixedly connected to the slider and can be fixedly connected to the bone connector. This configuration is called a continuous loop configuration.

[0023] The first cable portion may be integrally formed with or connected to the second cable portion. For example, the inner section of the first cable portion may be integrally formed with the inner section of the second cable portion. Alternatively, the inner section of the first cable portion may be connected to the inner section of the second cable portion. For example, the inner sections of the first and second cable portions may be connected to each other by crimping and / or clamping (e.g., by compression retainers, such as crimp sleeves or crimp connectors), or by knotting. As discussed in more detail below, the inner sections of the first and second cable portions may be connected to each other at or within the slider.

[0024] The outer segment of the first cable portion can be connected to the outer segment of the second cable portion by crimping and / or clamping (e.g., by compression retainers, such as crimp sleeves or crimp connectors, or by eccentric cams or screws), or by knotting. In use, as described in more detail below, the outer segments of the first and second cable portions can be connected to each other at or within the bone connector.

[0025] The first hole and the second hole can be axially spaced apart from each other by the solid portion of the tubular housing. That is, the solid portion of the tubular housing can be located between the first hole and the second hole in the axial direction, and the first hole and the second hole can be located on the same straight line in the axial direction.

[0026] The solid portion of the tubular housing may include a first channel on its first outer surface for receiving an outer segment of the first cable portion. The first channel may also be used to receive an outer segment of the second cable portion. That is, when the first cable portion and the second cable portion form a continuous loop, the first channel can receive the outer segment of the continuous loop. The first channel may extend between the first hole and the second hole.

[0027] The first channel may extend in an axial direction. The first channel may be configured as a recess (recess) formed in the first outer surface of the tubular housing. The first channel may serve as a groove to receive and guide the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion. In this way, the first channel facilitates the axial sliding of the outer segments along the first outer surface of the tubular housing. The first channel is isolated from the internal fluid of the tubular housing, thereby preventing bodily fluids from entering the tubular housing via the first channel. Furthermore, configuring the first channel as a recess (e.g., opposite to a slot) on the first outer surface of the tubular housing ensures that the first channel does not significantly weaken the tubular housing structurally, thereby improving the structural strength of the tubular housing.

[0028] As an alternative to the continuous ring configuration, the first cable portion and the second cable portion may be arranged parallel to each other. This configuration is called a parallel cable configuration. The inner sections of the first cable portion and the second cable portion may extend parallel to each other and are located on opposite radial sides of the inner surface of the tubular housing (and on opposite radial sides of the slider). The outer sections of the first cable portion and the second cable portion may be parallel to each other and extend on opposite radial sides of the tubular housing outside the tubular housing.

[0029] The outer segment of the first cable portion can be connected to the outer segment of the second cable portion by crimping and / or clamping (e.g., by compression retainers, such as crimp sleeves or crimp connectors, or by eccentric cams or screws), or by knotting. In use, as described in more detail below, the outer segments of the first and second cable portions can be connected to each other at or within the bone connector.

[0030] The second hole may be radially opposite to the first hole.

[0031] As in the continuous ring configuration described above, the solid portion of the tubular housing may include a first channel on the first outer surface. The first channel is used to receive only the outer segment of the first cable portion. The first channel may extend from the first aperture. The solid portion of the tubular housing may also include a second channel on its second outer surface for receiving only the outer segment of the second cable portion. The first outer surface may be radially opposite to the second outer surface. The second channel may extend from the second aperture. The second channel may be radially opposite to the first channel.

[0032] Each of the first and second channels may extend in an axial direction. Both the first and second channels may be configured as recesses (recesses) formed in the respective outer surfaces of the tubular housing. Therefore, both the first and second channels can function as grooves to receive and guide the respective outer segments. In this way, the first and second channels facilitate axial sliding of the outer segments along the respective outer surfaces of the tubular housing. Each of the first and second channels is isolated from the internal fluid of the tubular housing, thereby preventing bodily fluids from entering the tubular housing via the first and second channels. Furthermore, configuring the first and second channels as recesses (e.g., opposite to slots) on the outer surfaces of the tubular housing ensures that the first and second channels do not significantly weaken the tubular housing structurally, thereby improving the structural strength of the tubular housing.

[0033] The elongated shaft may include a threaded outer surface. The slider may include a threaded surface. When the slider is slidably mounted on the elongated shaft, the threaded surface of the slider may engage with the threaded outer surface of the elongated shaft, such that rotation of the elongated shaft about its longitudinal axis causes the slider to slide axially along the elongated shaft. The axial direction is the direction along the longitudinal axis of the elongated shaft. The threaded surface of the slider may correspond to (i.e., match) the threaded outer surface of the elongated shaft.

[0034] The slider may include a shaft bore, and the elongated shaft may be slidably received within the shaft bore. When the slider includes a threaded surface, the threaded surface may be the internal threaded surface of the shaft bore. Therefore, the elongated shaft and the slider can be used together as a lead screw mechanism.

[0035] The slider may further include a cable hole for receiving the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. The cable hole may be a single cable hole for simultaneously receiving both the first cable portion and the second cable portion. Alternatively, the cable hole may be a pair of cable holes, including a first cable hole for receiving the first cable portion and a second cable hole for receiving the second cable portion. The slider may include at least one (e.g., a single) recess in its radially outer surface. For example, the recess may be a single recess that exposes the single cable hole.

[0036] The slider can be attached to the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion by passing the first cable portion and / or the second cable hole through the first cable hole and / or the second cable hole. The slider can be fixed relative to the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion (e.g., axially fixed) by securing at least one stop attached to the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. The at least one stop can be located in one / each recess. The at least one stop can have a thickness greater than the diameter of the corresponding cable hole. Thus, by abutting against the opening of the cable hole in the corresponding recess, the at least one stop can limit the amount of sliding of the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion relative to the slider within the corresponding cable hole. The at least one stop can be configured as a bead-like element passing around and securely attached to the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion, or as a sleeve (e.g., a compression sleeve) securely attached to the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. Alternatively, the at least one stop can be a press-fit connector. The at least one stop can be two stops. Each stop can be located within a corresponding recess near the corresponding opening of the corresponding cable hole.

[0037] Each cable hole may be parallel to the shaft hole. Each cable hole may have a diameter such that it fits snugly around the corresponding cable portion received therein. In the continuous ring configuration, the slider may have a single cable hole and a single recess exposing the cable hole. The cable hole may be radially stacked on the shaft hole of the slider, such that the cable hole is parallel to the shaft hole, and a straight line extending radially passes through both the cable hole and the shaft hole. Inner sections of both the first and second cable portions may be received within the cable hole of the slider, and the inner sections may be connected within the recess exposing the cable hole. The slider may be saddle-shaped, having a pair of protrusions on either side of the recess, and the cable hole traverses the protrusions of the slider. In this way, the recess provides clearance for securing the slider to the first and second cable portions. The inner sections of the first cable portion and the second cable portion can be attached to each other within the recess via the at least one stop, so that the slider is connected to the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. As described above, the at least one stop can be a bead, sleeve, or crimp connector fitted around the inner end of the inner section. In some examples, the inner ends of the inner sections can simply be knotted together. In this case, the knot provides the at least one stop within the recess.

[0038] In the parallel cable configuration, the slider may include the first cable hole and the second cable hole as described above. The first cable hole may be parallel to the second cable hole. The second cable hole may be parallel to the shaft hole of the slider. The shaft hole may be located radially between the first cable hole and the second cable hole. The first cable hole may be radially opposite to the second cable hole. The inner sections of the first cable portion and the second cable portion may be fixedly attached to the slider by being clamped within the first cable hole and the second cable hole, respectively.

[0039] As described above, in either the continuous cable configuration or the parallel cable configuration, the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion may be connected to each other. The outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion may be connected at or within the bone connector. The connection between the first cable portion and the second cable portion (e.g., the connection between their respective outer segments) may be configured to at least partially release when a tensile force equal to or exceeding a predetermined tensile force is applied. The predetermined tensile force may be applied to the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. The predetermined tensile force may be less than a tensile force related to (i.e., corresponding to) the tensile strength of the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. The tensile force related to / corresponding to the tensile strength is a force such that if this force is reached and / or exceeded, it causes the cable portion characterized by that tensile strength to break. The tensile strengths of the first cable portion and the second cable portion may be equal (e.g., when the inner segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion are integrally formed).

[0040] The connection between the first cable portion and the second cable portion is configured to at least partially release when a tensile force equal to or less than the tensile strength of the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion is applied. This helps prevent the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion from breaking, for example, if excessive strain is applied to the cable portion due to the slider jamming. In this way, the connection between the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion can act as a mechanical safety device.

[0041] For example, the connection can be at least partially released by allowing a certain degree of relative movement between the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion. This relative movement can, for example, allow the outer segments to slide relative to each other, thereby relieving tension in the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. Alternatively, the relative movement can completely release (i.e., disconnect) the connection between the outer segments. Therefore, the connection between the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion allows for a predetermined amount of clearance to absorb / dissipate excessive strain in the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion, thereby reducing the risk of cable breakage.

[0042] In some examples, the first cable portion may be connected to the second cable portion via a compression retainer. That is, the first cable portion can be connected to the second cable portion by crimping and / or clamping the compression retainer around portions of the first and second cable portions (e.g., the outer ends of the outer segments). The compression retainer can apply a compressive force to portions of the first and second cable portions held therein. When the bone connector includes a retainer, the retainer can support the compression retainer and portions of the first and second cable portions held therein. The compression retainer can extend along the axial direction of the bone transport device.

[0043] The compression retainer may be a crimped sleeve. Therefore, in some examples, the outer ends of the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion can be attached to each other by forging. Specifically, the outer ends can be attached together via a crimped sleeve fitted around the outer ends. The outer ends can pass through the compression retainer (e.g., the crimped sleeve) in opposite directions. The crimped sleeve can be forged and / or upset using suitable tools to connect / securely attach the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion together. The crimped sleeve may be, for example, an elliptical crimped sleeve or an hourglass-shaped crimped sleeve.

[0044] When a tension equal to or greater than the predetermined tension is applied, the first cable portion and the second cable portion (e.g., their outer sections) may slide relative to each other within the crimp sleeve to relax the tension in the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion while maintaining the connection, or while sliding out of the crimp sleeve to disconnect the connection.

[0045] The bone connector may include at least one cable receiver configured to at least partially receive the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. The at least one cable receiver may be inserted into the bone block. The at least one cable receiver may be configured to at least partially receive the outer ends of the outer segments of the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion. For example, the bone connector may include a single cable receiver configured to receive the outer ends of both the first cable portion and the second cable portion. Alternatively, the at least one cable receiver may be a pair of cable receivers, including a first cable receiver configured to at least partially receive the outer end of the first cable portion and a second cable receiver configured to at least partially receive the outer end of the second cable portion.

[0046] In addition to receiving at least partially the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion, one / each cable receiving portion may also be configured to hold the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion.

[0047] Each cable receiver may be a channel extending through the bone connector. Each cable receiver may extend perpendicular to the axial direction. Alternatively, each cable receiver may be angled relative to the axial direction. In some examples, the outer ends of the first and second cable portions may be attached together, for example, within each cable receiver by clamping and / or crimping.

[0048] Each cable receiver may be provided with a corresponding plug into which it can be inserted. Therefore, the outer ends of the first and second cable portions can be clamped between the corresponding inner surface of each cable receiver and the outer surface of the corresponding plug. Each cable receiver may include an internally threaded surface. Each plug may include an externally threaded surface configured to engage with the internally threaded surface of the corresponding cable receiver. Therefore, the outer ends of the first and second cable portions can be securely attached to each cable receiver by screwing each plug into the corresponding cable receiver to clamp the outer ends therein. Each plug may be a locating screw.

[0049] The bone transport device may further include one or more cable retainers, each cable retainer being insertable into a corresponding cable receiver such that, in use, one / each cable retainer is positioned between a portion of the first and / or second cable portion received within the corresponding cable receiver and a corresponding plug inserted therein. One / each cable retainer may include one or more protrusions, each protrusion engaging a corresponding groove formed in the inner surface of the corresponding cable receiver. Thus, one / each cable retainer can help hold the corresponding cable portion in place within the corresponding cable receiver by pressing against it. One / each cable retainer may also space the cable portion from the corresponding plug. Advantageously, this prevents the plug from applying torque directly to the cable portion when screwed into the corresponding cable receiver, thereby reducing the risk of cable damage.

[0050] In other examples, the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion can be attached to each other by knotting their respective outer ends, for example, within the single cable receiver portion or above the pair of cable receiver portions.

[0051] The bone connector may further include a retainer for supporting the outer ends of the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion. The retainer may open to one / each cable receiver, allowing the outer ends to be fed into the retainer through one / each cable receiver. The retainer may define a channel for receiving the outer ends of the first cable portion and the second cable portion. The channel may be an axially extending channel. The channel may be an open channel (i.e., such that the channel supports the outer ends from below and laterally, but does not completely surround the outer ends). The retainer may also include a recess that cuts across the channel to expose, in use, the internal portion of the channel supporting the outer ends. The recess may extend perpendicular to the channel. Thus, the recess provides access to the outer ends of the first cable portion and the second cable portion, for example, to allow the outer ends to be attached to each other, for example, by one of the methods described above. In some examples, the recess may cut across the channel such that the retainer includes forks (e.g., four forks) for supporting the outer ends. The fork teeth may extend along the longitudinal axis of the bone connector (e.g., the longitudinal axis of one / each cable receiver). The fork teeth may extend perpendicular to the axial direction of the bone transport device and optionally extend away from one / each cable receiver. When the outer ends of the outer segments of the first cable and the second cable are connected to each other via a compression retainer (e.g., a crimp sleeve), the retainer may be configured to support (e.g., hold) the compression retainer in place.

[0052] In a second aspect, a bone transport device is provided for transporting bone fragments, the bone transport device comprising: Slender shaft; A tubular housing surrounding the elongated shaft, the tubular housing including a first hole in its wall; A slider, which is slidably mounted on the elongated shaft within the housing; An actuator configured to cause the slider to slide axially along a sliding segment of the elongated shaft; A first cable portion, which can be fixedly connected to a bone connector located outside the tubular housing, and the first cable portion is fixedly connected to the slider inside the tubular housing; The first cable portion passes through the first hole and is configured to transmit sliding force to the bone connector when the slider moves along the sliding segment of the axis; The bone transport device is characterized in that the slider is rotated and fixed relative to the tubular housing.

[0053] Advantageously, the bone transport device of the second aspect helps to reduce the risk of torsion of the first and / or second ring portions when the slider rotates relative to the tubular housing, which could cause misalignment of the transported bone fragments and thus hinder the distraction osteogenesis process.

[0054] The features of the first and second aspects can be combined.

[0055] The slider can be rotatably fixed relative to the tubular housing. That is, rotation of the slider about the elongated axis is prevented. Advantageously, this reduces the risk of the slider getting stuck within the tubular housing and / or the bone fragment becoming displaced during bone transport.

[0056] For example, the radially outer surface of the slider may be configured to abut and / or engage with a portion of the inner surface of the tubular housing. Therefore, rotation of the slider relative to the axial direction can be prevented by the frictional interaction between the slider and the tubular body.

[0057] Specifically, the slider may have a generally elliptical cross-section, the maximum principal diameter of which (i.e., the maximum extension dimension of the principal axis of the elliptical cross-section) is greater than the minimum diameter of the cross-section of the tubular housing. The cross-section lies in a plane perpendicular to the shaft hole of the slider.

[0058] The generally elliptical cross-section can be elliptical, egg-shaped, or stadium-shaped. In this way, the elliptical shape of the slider allows for abutment and / or engagement between the radially outer surface of the slider and a portion of the inner surface of the tubular housing. The tubular housing may also have a generally elliptical cross-section. Specifically, the tubular housing may have a cross-section that matches the cross-sectional shape of the slider. In this case, the minimum diameter of the cross-section of the tubular housing is the minor axis (i.e., the extended dimension of the secondary axis) of the elliptical cross-section. Alternatively, the slider may have a generally circular cross-section. In this case, the minimum diameter is the diameter of the cross-section.

[0059] Additionally or alternatively, the bone transport device may include a fixation element that rotatably fixes the slider relative to the tubular housing. The fixation element may be located on the slider. For example, the fixation element may be located on the radially outer surface of the slider. Alternatively, the fixation element may be located on the tubular housing. For example, the fixation element may be located on the inner surface of the tubular housing.

[0060] In some examples, the fixing element may be a lug, and the bone transport device may also include a mating groove. For example, the lug may be located on one of the inner surface of the tubular housing and the radially outer surface of the slider, while the groove may be located on the other of the inner surface of the tubular housing and the radially outer surface of the slider. Both the lug and the groove may extend axially along the sliding section of the elongated shaft. When the lug is disposed on the inner surface of the tubular housing, the lug may extend along the entire axial length / a portion of the axial length of the sliding section of the tubular housing. The mating groove may extend axially along the entire axial length / a portion of the axial length of the slider. The lug may be configured as a tension wire fixedly attached (e.g., welded) to the inner surface of the tubular housing. For example, the wire may be welded to the inner surface of the tubular housing at both ends. The wire may have a diameter of approximately 0.5 mm.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, the shaft hole may be radially offset relative to the longitudinal axis of the slider. Besides allowing the slider to be rotated and fixed relative to the housing, this also facilitates the slider having a generally elliptical cross-section as described above. When the slider has a generally elliptical cross-section, the shaft hole may be spaced apart along the major diameter of the elliptical cross-section from the longitudinal axis of the slider passing through the center of the elliptical cross-section.

[0062] The tubular housing described in the first and / or second aspects may have a circular cross-section (i.e., a cross-section located in a transverse plane perpendicular to the axial direction). Alternatively, the tubular housing may have a generally elliptical cross-section. The generally elliptical cross-section may be elliptical, egg-shaped, or stadium-shaped. The tubular housing may have a cross-section whose shape substantially matches the cross-sectional shape of the slider (i.e., a cross-section taken in a plane perpendicular to the shaft hole).

[0063] The bone transport device described in the first or second aspect may further include the bone connector. The bone connector may be as described with reference to the first aspect.

[0064] All components of the bone transport device described in the first or second aspect may be formed of biocompatible materials, such as biocompatible metals.

[0065] The actuator described in the first or second aspect may be provided by a motor configured to drive the elongated shaft to cause the slider to slide axially along a sliding segment of the elongated shaft. More specifically, the actuator may be a motor configured to rotate the elongated shaft about its longitudinal axis. As described above, when the elongated shaft and the slider include corresponding threaded surfaces, rotation of the elongated shaft causes the slider to slide axially along the sliding segment of the elongated shaft. In some examples, the motor may be an electric motor. The motor may be remotely driven. Specifically, the motor may be driven (powered) by a device external to the patient's body. For example, the motor may be driven by electromagnetic induction. Specifically, electrical energy may be induced within the electric motor of the bone transport device by a changing magnetic field applied external to the patient's body. Alternatively, the motor may be driven by an electronic signal transmitted thereto.

[0066] In a third aspect, a method for transporting bone fragments using the bone transport device described in the first or second aspect is provided, the bone transport method comprising: Connect the first axial end of the bone transport device to the first bone portion; Connect the second axial end of the bone transport device to the second bone portion; A cortical incision is performed on the first bone portion to obtain the bone block; Securely connect the bone connector to the bone block; and The slider is axially slid along the sliding section of the elongated shaft to transport the bone block.

[0067] Securely attaching the bone connector to the bone block may include inserting the bone connector at least partially into the bone block.

[0068] The method may include drilling one or more openings in the bone block for inserting the bone connector therein. For example, the method may involve drilling the one or more openings using a suitable tool such as a jig. The method may include drilling the one or more openings perpendicular to or at an angle relative to the axial direction.

[0069] The method may include passing the outer segments of the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion through the bone connector.

[0070] When the bone transport device includes the first cable portion and the second cable portion, the method may further include fixing the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion to each other and / or fixing them to the bone connector.

[0071] For example, the method may include pressing and / or clamping the outer segments together, for example by fitting a compression retainer (e.g., a crimp sleeve) around the outer ends and forging or upsetting it, such that the compression retainer applies a compressive force to the outer segments to hold them therein.

[0072] Alternatively, the method may include knotting the outer ends of the outer segments of the first cable portion and the second cable portion together, for example, knotting above the opening of one / each cable receiving portion.

[0073] When the bone transport device includes one or more plugs insertable into one or more cable receivers, the method may include passing an outer segment of the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion through one / each cable receiver and inserting one / each plug into its respective cable receiver to clamp one / each outer segment between the inner surface of the respective cable receiver and the outer surface of the plug inserted therein. When one / each cable receiver and one / each plug include respective threaded surfaces, the method may further include screwing one / each plug into its respective cable receiver to clamp the respective outer segment therein.

[0074] When the bone transport device includes one or more cable retainers, the method may further include the step of inserting one / each cable retainer into the respective cable receiver before inserting and / or screwing the respective plug into the cable receiver. Attached Figure Description

[0075] Embodiments and experiments illustrating the principles of the invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 The illustration shows a bone transport device implanted in a patient's limb. Figure 2 schematically shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the bone transport device; Figure 3 schematically shown Figure 2 A side view of a portion of the bone transport device; Figure 4 schematically shown Figure 3 A perspective cross-sectional view of the first hole in the bone transport device; Figure 5 A partial perspective view of a bone transport device including a pulley is schematically shown, as well as an enlarged view showing the pulley; Figure 6 A partial perspective view of a bone transport device including a pulley and an enlarged view of the pulley are schematically shown; Figure 7 A schematic top sectional view of a bone transport device configured with parallel cables is shown. Figure 8 schematically shown Figure 7 Exploded view of the bone transport mechanism; Figure 9 schematically shown Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the bone transport device; Figure 10A schematically shown Figure 7 A side sectional view of a portion of the bone transport device. Figure 10B schematically shown Figure 10A Enlarged view of the device shown; Figure 11 A schematic side sectional view of a bone transport device configured according to a continuous ring is shown. Figure 12 schematically shown Figure 11 Exploded view of the bone transport mechanism; Figure 13 schematically shown Figure 11 A partial side sectional view of the bone transport device; Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C and Figure 14D Schematic illustrations of the use of Figure 11 The main sectional view, side sectional view, and first and second perspective views of the slider of the bone transport device; Figure 15 A schematic side sectional view of a bone block connected to a bone transport device via bone connectors; Figure 16 A schematic top perspective view of the bone connector inserted into the bone block; Figure 17 A schematic side sectional view of the bone connector inserted into the bone block is shown. Figure 18 A partial perspective view schematically illustrates a bone transport device configured according to parallel cables, the bone transport device including bone connectors; Figure 19 A perspective view schematically showing the bone transport device, clamps, and bone blocks; Figure 20 A partial perspective view schematically showing a bone block attached to a bone transport device according to a parallel cable configuration; Figure 21A , Figure 21B , Figure 21C , Figure 21D and Figure 21E The perspective view, side view, top view, side view and side sectional view of the bone connector are shown schematically respectively; Figure 22 A partial perspective view of the bone transport device is schematically shown; and Figure 23A , Figure 23B, Figure 23C A schematic front sectional view of the tubular housing of the bone transport device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0076] Aspects and embodiments of the invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings. Other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0077] Referring to an embodiment of the bone transport device 1 according to the present invention Figures 1 to 23C Let's have a discussion.

[0078] Reference Figure 1 The bone transport device 1 can be implanted into the medullary cavity of bone 9. Specifically, the first axial end of the bone transport device 1 can be attached to the first bone portion 9a of bone 9 via one or more bone screws 14, and the second axial end of the bone transport device 1 can be attached to the second bone portion 9b of bone 9 via another set of one or more bone screws 14. Bone fragment 70 is obtained by performing a cortical incision on the first bone portion 9a. The bone transport device 1 can be implanted via a bone connector 61 (see, for example...). Figure 8 ) Attached to bone block 70.

[0079] For example, refer to Figure 7 The bone transport device 1 includes an elongated shaft 2, a tubular housing 10 surrounding the elongated shaft 2, and a slider 20 slidably mounted on the elongated shaft 2 within the housing 10. The bone transport device 1 also includes a first cable portion 4, which is fixedly connected to a bone connector 60 located outside the tubular housing 10, and is also fixedly connected to the slider 20 within the tubular housing 10. The bone transport device 1 further includes a second cable portion 5, which is fixedly connected to the bone connector 60 located outside the tubular housing 10. The second cable portion 5 is fixedly connected to the slider 20 within the tubular housing 10. The first cable portion 4 passes through a first hole 40 in the wall of the tubular housing 10, and the second cable portion 5 passes through a second hole 50 in the wall of the tubular housing 10. Each of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 is configured to transmit a sliding force to the bone connector 60 as the slider 20 moves along a sliding segment of the elongated shaft 2. Specifically, the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are each configured to transmit pressure and / or tension to achieve bone transport. In use, the first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5 can be taut (i.e., under tension) to transmit tension. See, for example, [reference needed]. Figure 8 The sliding section of the slender shaft 2 is surrounded by the solid portion 10a of the tubular housing 10. The solid portion 10a of the tubular housing 10 is not perforated, so that the solid portion 10a isolates the interior of the bone transport device 1 from the external fluid of the bone transport device 1, thereby reducing the risk of body fluid entering the interior of the tubular housing 10.

[0080] Slider 20 includes shaft hole 22 (see example) Figures 14A to 14DThe elongated shaft 2 is slidably received within the shaft bore 22. The elongated shaft 2 includes a threaded outer surface, and the shaft bore 22 includes an internally threaded surface, such that when the slider 20 is slidably mounted on the elongated shaft 2, the threaded surface of the slider 20 engages with the threaded outer surface of the elongated shaft 2. Therefore, rotation of the elongated shaft 2 about its longitudinal axis causes the slider 20 to slide axially along the elongated shaft 2. Thus, the elongated shaft 2 and the slider 20 together serve as a lead screw mechanism.

[0081] Reference Figure 2 The bone transport device 1 is motorized, including a motor 80 to drive the bone block 70 to transport along the length of the device. The motor 80 is enclosed within a tubular housing 10. The motor 80 is configured to rotate an elongated shaft 2 about its longitudinal axis, causing a slider 20 to slide axially along a sliding section of the elongated shaft 2. The motor 80 is configured to be remotely driven. The motor 80 includes an input shaft 71, a magnet 75, a gearbox 77, an output shaft 72, a bearing 74, a thrust bearing 73, and a seal 78. The motor 80 is driven by electromagnetic induction using a device (not shown) located outside the patient's body. Specifically, a changing magnetic field applied outside the patient's body causes the magnet 75 within the motor 80 to move, for example, rotate, thereby driving the input shaft 71 and the output shaft 72. The resulting motion is transmitted to the elongated shaft 2, causing it to rotate about its longitudinal axis.

[0082] The slender shaft 2 can be an M3 screw (i.e., the slender shaft 2 can have a diameter of approximately 3 mm). In another example, the slender shaft 2 can be an M4 screw (i.e., the slender shaft 2 can have a diameter of approximately 4 mm).

[0083] The first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5 may each have a diameter of 0.5 mm to 1.2 mm. The first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5 may each be formed from any one or any combination of the following: steel (e.g., stainless steel), plastic materials (e.g., nylon), polyester (e.g., Dacron™), polyamide, polyethylene, aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar™), or composite materials (e.g., Dyneema™ or Spectra™). The first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5 may each be formed from a fiber blend material. The first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5 may each be reinforced, for example, the first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5 may each be formed from reinforced plastic.

[0084] As shown above, the first cable portion 4 passes through the first hole 40, and the second cable portion 5 passes through the second hole 50. (See reference for example.) Figure 7The first cable portion 4 surrounds and passes through the first hole 40, and includes an inner section 4a extending substantially axially from the slider 20 to the first hole 40 and an outer section 4b extending adjacent to the solid portion 10a of the housing 10. That is, the first cable portion 4 extends both internally and externally relative to the tubular housing 10, and its entry / exit point on the tubular housing 10 is the first hole 40.

[0085] Similarly, the second cable portion 5 surrounds and passes through the second hole 50. The second cable portion 5 includes an inner section 5a extending substantially axially from the slider 20 to the second hole 50 and an outer section 5b extending adjacent to the solid portion 10a of the tubular housing 10. The outer sections 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are respectively stacked radially on the inner sections 4a and 5a of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5, such that the outer sections 4b and 5b are substantially parallel to the corresponding inner sections 4a and 5a in the axial direction, and a straight line extending radially passes through both the outer and inner sections. The outer sections 4b and 5b are at least spaced apart from the inner sections 4a and 5a by the wall thickness of the tubular housing 10 extending radially between them.

[0086] Each of the first hole 40 and the second hole 50 serves as a turning point for the first cable section 4 and the second cable section 5, respectively, such that the first cable section 4 extends in the opposite direction along the axial direction at the first hole 40, and the second cable section 5 extends in the opposite direction along the axial direction at the second hole 50.

[0087] Reference Figures 3 to 6 The structure of the first hole 40 and the second hole 50 is discussed. Figures 3 to 6 Only the first hole 40 is shown. However, the second hole 50 may be structurally identical to the first hole 40, or the second hole 50 may have any combination of the features of the first hole 40.

[0088] Reference Figure 4 The first hole 40 includes a first turning edge 41 around which the first cable portion 4 surrounds during use. The first turning edge 41 is a convex curved edge, more specifically a smooth convex curved edge. This facilitates the sliding of the first cable portion 4 on the smooth convex curved edge 41. In effect, the first turning edge 41 acts as a pulley. As shown above, although not shown in the figures, the second hole 50 may also include a second turning edge 51 around which the second cable portion 5 surrounds during use. The second turning edge 51 may also be a smooth convex curved edge.

[0089] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6The bone transport device 1 may also include a first pulley 42, with a first cable portion 4 surrounding the first pulley. The first pulley 42 is located within a first hole 40. In this example, the first pulley 42 is provided as an alternative to a first turning edge 41 of the first hole 40 to allow the first cable portion 4 to pass around through the first hole. The first pulley 42 is mounted to the tubular housing 10 via a first pin 44. The first pin 44 passes through the first pulley 42 and extends across the first hole 40. As shown above, although not shown in the figures, the bone transport device 1 may also include a second pulley 52 located within a second hole 50. The second pulley 52 may be mounted to the tubular housing 10 via a second pin 54. The second pin 54 may pass through the second pulley 52 and extend across the second hole 50.

[0090] The bone transport device 1 may include a first sealing element (not shown) located at a first hole 40 to seal the interior of the tubular housing 10. The first sealing element may be used to seal against the wall of the first hole 40 and / or against the first cable portion 4 and / or the first turning edge 41 and / or the first pulley 42. The bone transport device 1 may include a second sealing element (not shown) located at a second hole 50 to seal the interior of the tubular housing 10. The second sealing element may be used to seal against the wall of the second hole 50 and / or against the second cable portion 5 and / or the second turning edge 51 and / or the second pulley 52.

[0091] The bone transport device 1 can be configured in different ways. For example, the bone transport device 1 can be configured as a parallel cable configuration or a continuous ring configuration. See below for details. Figures 7 to 10B Discuss parallel cable configurations. (Refer to...) Figures 11 to 13 Discuss continuous loop configurations.

[0092] In the parallel cable configuration, the first cable section 4 and the second cable section 5 are arranged parallel to each other. That is, the inner sections 4a and 5a of the first cable section 4 and the second cable section 5 extend parallel to each other and are located on opposite radial sides of the inner surface of the tubular housing (and on opposite radial sides of the slider 20). The outer sections 4b and 5b of the first cable section 4 and the second cable section 5 are parallel to each other and extend on opposite radial sides of the tubular housing 10 outside the tubular housing 10.

[0093] The second hole 50 is radially opposite to the first hole 40. Figure 10A and Figure 10B In the example, the first hole 40 and the second hole 50 each include corresponding turning edges 41 and 42, as discussed in detail above.

[0094] The solid portion 10a of the tubular housing 10 includes a first channel 11 for receiving only the outer segment 4b of the first cable portion 4. The first channel 11 extends from a first hole 40. The solid portion 10a also includes a second channel 12 for receiving only the outer segment 5b of the second cable portion 5. The second channel 12 extends from a second hole 50. The first channel 11 and the second channel 12 are radially opposite each other. Each of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 extends in an axial direction. Each of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 is configured as a recess (recess) formed in a respective outer surface of the tubular housing 10. Thus, the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 each serve as a groove to receive and guide the respective outer segments 4b, 5b. Each of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 is fluid-isolated from the interior of the tubular housing 10.

[0095] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The outer segment 4b of the first cable portion 4 is connected to the outer segment 5b of the second cable portion 5 via a compression retainer 6, such as a crimp sleeve or a crimp connector. In use, the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are connected to each other at the bone connector 60.

[0096] like Figure 9 As shown, the slider 20 can be rotatably fixed relative to the tubular housing 10 via the lug 7 to prevent rotation of the slider relative to the axial direction. In this example, the lug 7 is disposed on the inner surface of the tubular housing 10. The lug 7 is received within a mating groove 8. The groove 8 is formed on the radially outer surface of the slider 20. Both the lug 7 and the groove 8 extend axially along the sliding section of the elongated shaft 2. The lug 7 can be configured as a tension wire fixedly attached (e.g., welded) to the inner surface of the tubular housing 10. For example, the wire can be welded to the inner surface of the tubular housing 10 at both ends. The wire can have a diameter of approximately 0.5 mm.

[0097] like Figure 9 and Figure 10A As best shown, in addition to the shaft hole 22, the slider 20 also includes a pair of cable holes 21a and 21b, which include a first cable hole 21a for receiving the first cable portion 4 and a second cable hole 21b for receiving the second cable portion 5. The first cable hole 21a is parallel to the second cable hole 21b. The second cable hole 21b is parallel to the shaft hole 22 of the slider 20. The shaft hole 22 is located radially between the first cable hole 21a and the second cable hole 21b. The first cable hole 21a and the second cable hole 21b are radially opposite each other. The inner sections 4a and 5a of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are fixedly attached to the slider 20 by clamping them respectively within the first cable hole 21a and the second cable hole 21b.

[0098] Each cable hole may have a diameter such that it fits snugly around the corresponding cable portion received therein.

[0099] Switch to reference Figures 11 to 13 The continuous ring configuration discussed hereby states that the first cable section 4 and the second cable section 5 together form a continuous cable ring, which is fixedly connected to the slider 20 and can be fixedly connected to the bone connector 60.

[0100] Reference Figure 11 The inner section 4a of the first cable portion 4 is integrally formed with the inner section 5a of the second cable portion 5. The outer section 4b of the first cable portion 4 is connected to the outer section 5b of the second cable portion 5 at or within the bone connector 60, as described in more detail below.

[0101] The first hole 40 and the second hole 50 are axially spaced apart from each other by the solid portion 10a of the tubular housing 10. That is, the solid portion 10a of the tubular housing 10 is located between the first hole 40 and the second hole 50 in the axial direction, and the first hole 40 and the second hole 50 are located on the same straight line in the axial direction.

[0102] Similar to the parallel cable configuration, the solid portion 10a of the tubular housing 10 includes a first channel 11 on its outer surface. However, in the continuous ring configuration, the first channel 11 is used to receive the outer segment 4b of the first cable portion 4 and the outer segment 5b of the second cable portion 5. That is, in use, the first channel 11 receives the outer segment of the continuous ring. The first channel 11 extends axially between the first hole 40 and the second hole 50.

[0103] The first channel 11 is configured as a recess (recess) formed in the first outer surface of the tubular housing 10. The first channel 11 serves as a groove to receive and guide the outer segments 4b, 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. In this way, the first channel 11 facilitates axial sliding of the outer segments along the first outer surface of the tubular housing. The first channel 11 is isolated from the internal fluid of the tubular housing 10, thereby preventing bodily fluids from entering the tubular housing 10 via the first channel 11. The slider may also include a cable hole for receiving the first cable portion and the second cable portion. The cable hole may be a single cable hole for simultaneously receiving the first cable portion and the second cable portion. The slider may include a single recess in its radially outer surface exposing the cable hole.

[0104] Reference Figures 14A to 14DThe slider 20 has a single cable hole 21 and a single recess 23 exposing the cable hole. The cable hole 21 is radially superimposed on the shaft hole 22 of the slider, such that the cable hole 21 is parallel to the shaft hole 22, and a straight line extending radially passes through both the cable hole and the shaft hole. The inner sections 4a and 5a of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are integrally formed with each other and are both received within the cable hole 21 of the slider 20. The slider 20 is saddle-shaped and has a pair of protrusions 20a and 20b located on both sides of the recess 23, and the cable hole 21 crosses the protrusions 20a and 20b of the slider. In this way, the recess 23 provides a gap for securing the slider 20 to the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. The slider 20 is secured to the first cable portion 4a and the second cable portion 5a via a stop 24 that is fixedly attached to the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 (which are integrally formed with each other in this example). A stop 24 is located in the recess 23. The stop 24 has a thickness greater than the diameter of the cable hole 21. Thus, the stop 24, by abutting against the opening of the cable hole 21 within the recess 23, limits the amount of sliding of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 relative to the slider 20 within the cable hole 21. The stop 24 is configured as a bead-like element passing around and fixedly attached to the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. Alternatively, the stop 24 may be a press-fit connector or a sleeve (e.g., a compression sleeve) fixedly attached to the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5.

[0105] In both the parallel cable configuration and the continuous ring configuration, the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 can be attached to each other at or within the bone connector 60. Various methods exist for attaching the outer segments 4b and 5b to each other and / or to the bone connector 60. (Refer to...) Figures 15 to 21E Examples of these methods are discussed.

[0106] In some examples, the connection between the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 (i.e., the connection between their respective outer segments 4b and 5b) is configured to at least partially release when a tension equal to or exceeding a predetermined tension is applied. The predetermined tension may be applied to the first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5. The predetermined tension may be less than a tension related to (i.e., corresponding to) the tensile strength of the first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5. In some examples, the tensile strengths of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are equal (e.g., when the inner segments 4a and 5a of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are integrally formed).

[0107] In some examples, the connection can be at least partially released by allowing a certain degree of relative movement between the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. This relative movement allows the outer segments 4b and 5b to slide relative to each other, thereby relieving tension in the first cable portion 4 and / or the second cable portion 5. Alternatively, the relative movement can completely release (i.e., disconnect) the connection between the outer segments 4b and 5b. Therefore, the connection between the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 allows for a predetermined amount of clearance to absorb / dissipate excessive strain in the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion, thereby reducing the risk of cable breakage.

[0108] Reference Figures 18 to 21E The first cable portion 4 can be connected to the second cable portion 5 via a compression retainer 6. That is, the first cable portion 4 can be connected to the second cable portion 5 by crimping and / or clamping the compression retainer 6 around portions of the first and second cable portions (e.g., the outer ends of the outer segments 4b and 5b). The compression retainer 6 applies a compressive force to portions of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 held therein. The compression retainer 6 extends along the axial direction of the bone transport device 1.

[0109] exist Figures 21A to 21E In the example, the compression retainer 6 is a crimped sleeve. That is, the outer ends of the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are crimped together. Specifically, the outer ends are attached together via a crimped sleeve 6 fitted around the outer ends. The outer ends pass through the crimped sleeve 6 in opposite directions. The crimped sleeve 6 is forged and / or crimped using appropriate tools to connect / securely attach the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 together. The crimped sleeve 6 is an elliptical crimped sleeve. However, the crimped sleeve 6 can have different shapes and can be, for example, an hourglass-shaped crimped sleeve. As described above, the crimped sleeve 6 allows the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 to slide relative to each other within the crimped sleeve when a tension equal to or exceeding a predetermined tension is applied, both to maintain the connection and to completely slide out of the crimped sleeve 6 to disconnect the connection.

[0110] Next, refer to Figures 15 to 20 A first variation of the bone connector 60 is discussed. The bone connector 60 includes a first cable receiving portion 61a and a second cable receiving portion 61b. The first cable receiving portion 61a is configured to at least partially receive a first cable portion 4, and the second cable receiving portion 61b is configured to at least partially receive a second cable portion 5. The cable receiving portions 61a and 61b are configured to at least partially receive the outer ends of the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5.

[0111] Reference Figures 15 to 17 Cable receiving parts 61a and 61b can be inserted into the bone block 70. This can be achieved by using, for example... Figure 18 The clamp 100 shown is achieved by drilling holes in the bone block 70 using suitable tools. The cable receiving parts 61a and 61b can then be inserted into the drilled holes in the bone block 70.

[0112] For example, Figures 15 to 17 As shown, each cable receiving portion 61a, 61b is angled relative to the axial direction. The outer ends of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are attached together by clamping and / or crimping over and between the cable receiving portions 61a, 61b. In other examples, the outer segments of the first and second cable portions can be attached to each other by knotting their respective outer ends, for example, above a pair of cable receiving portions 61a, 61b.

[0113] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 A second variation of the bone connector 60 is discussed. To avoid unnecessary repetition, the differences from the first variation will be discussed only below. In this variation, the bone connector 60 includes a single cable receiver 61 configured to receive the outer ends of both the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. In addition to at least partially receiving the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5, the cable receiver 61 is also configured to retain the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. In use, the cable receiver 61 extends perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0114] The cable receiving portion 61 is provided with an insertable plug 62. The plug allows the outer ends of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 to be clamped between the inner surface of the cable receiving portion 61 and the outer surface of the plug 62. The cable receiving portion 61 includes an internally threaded surface. The plug 62 includes an externally threaded surface configured to engage with the internally threaded surface of the cable receiving portion 61. Specifically, in this example, the plug 62 is a positioning screw. Thus, by screwing the positioning screw 62 into the cable receiving portion 61 to clamp the outer ends therein, the outer ends of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are securely attached to the cable receiving portion 61.

[0115] The bone transport device 1 also includes a cable retainer 66 insertable into a cable receiver 61, such that in use the cable retainer 66 is positioned between portions of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 received within the respective cable receiver 61 and a plug 62 inserted therein. The cable retainer 66 includes a pair of protrusions, each protrusion engaging a corresponding groove formed in the inner surface of the cable receiver 61. Therefore, the cable retainer 66 can help hold the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 in proper position within the cable receiver 61 by pressing against them. The cable retainer 61 also spaces the cable portion from the plug 62. Advantageously, this prevents the plug 62 from applying torque directly to the cable portions 4 and 5 when screwed into the cable receiver 61, thereby reducing the risk of cable damage.

[0116] Reference Figures 21A to 21E A third variation of the bone connector 60 is discussed. Similar to the second variation, the bone connector 60 includes a single cable receiver 61 configured to receive the outer ends of both the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. In use, the cable receiver 61 extends perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0117] The bone connector 60 also includes a retainer 63 for supporting the outer ends of the outer segments 4b, 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. The retainer 63 opens to a cable receiver 61, allowing the outer ends to be fed into the retainer 63 through the cable receiver 61. The retainer 63 defines a channel 65 for receiving the outer ends of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. This channel is an axially extending open channel (i.e., the channel supports the outer ends from below and laterally, but does not completely surround the outer ends). The retainer also includes a recess that cuts across the channel 65 to expose the internal portion of the channel supporting the outer ends in use. The recess extends perpendicular to the channel. The recess provides access to the outer ends of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5. The recess cuts across the channel 65 such that the retainer 63 includes four forked teeth 64 for supporting the outer ends. The forked teeth 64 extend along the longitudinal axis of the bone connector 60 (e.g., the longitudinal axis of the cable receiver 61). In use, the fork tooth 64 extends perpendicular to the axial direction of the bone transport device 1 and extends away from the cable receiving part 61. As described above, in Figures 21A to 21E In the example, the outer ends of the outer segments 4b and 5b of the first cable portion 4 and the second cable portion 5 are connected to each other via a crimp sleeve 6. The retainer 63 supports (e.g., holds) the crimp sleeve 6 in place.

[0118] As mentioned above Figure 9 As discussed, the slider 20 can be rotatably fixed relative to the tubular housing 10. That is, rotation of the slider 20 about the elongated shaft 2 is prevented. This also... Figure 23A As shown, the tubular housing 10 includes a lug 7 located on the inner surface of the tubular housing 10. Figure 23C In the example, the inner surface of the tubular housing 10 is instead provided with a groove 8 for receiving a lug (not shown). The lug 7 may be provided on the radial outer surface of the slider 20.

[0119] In addition to rotating and fixing the slider 20 relative to the tubular housing 10 via the lug 7 and the mating groove 8, or alternatively, the slider 20 can also be rotated and fixed relative to the tubular housing 10 by configuring the slider 20 with a generally elliptical cross-section, the maximum principal diameter of which is greater than the minimum diameter of the cross-section of the tubular housing 10. The cross-section lies in a plane perpendicular to the shaft hole 22 of the slider 20. This... Figure 14A , Figure 14C and Figure 14DAs shown in the figure. In this example, the generally elliptical cross-section is elliptical. The generally elliptical cross-section of slider 20 allows the radially outer surface of slider 20 to abut against a portion of the inner surface of tubular housing 10, preventing slider 20 from rotating about the axial direction. Tubular housing 10 may have a circular cross-section (e.g., Figure 22 (as shown) or a roughly elliptical cross-section (such as) Figure 23B (As shown).

[0120] Reference Figure 14A The shaft hole 22 can be radially offset relative to the longitudinal axis of the slider. This also helps to rotate and fix the slider 20 relative to the tubular housing 10. Figure 23A In the example, the shaft hole 22 is spaced apart from the longitudinal axis of the slider 20, which passes through the center 25 of the elliptical cross-section, along the major diameter of the elliptical cross-section.

[0121] The tubular shell 10 may have an outer diameter of 10 mm to 14 mm (inclusive), for example, 10 mm to 12 mm (inclusive) or 12 mm to 14 mm (inclusive). The tubular shell 10 may have an inner diameter of approximately 6 mm. When the tubular shell 10 has an elliptical cross-section, the tubular shell 10 may have a principal diameter of 10 mm to 14 mm (inclusive), for example, 10 mm to 12 mm (inclusive) or 12 mm to 14 mm (inclusive).

[0122] The slider 20 may have a diameter of approximately 5.5 mm. When the slider 20 has a generally elliptical cross-section, the main diameter of the slider 20 may be approximately 5.5 mm.

[0123] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, whether expressed in their specific form, or as means for performing the disclosed functions, or as methods or processes for obtaining the disclosed results, may, where appropriate, be used alone or in any combination of these features to implement the invention in various forms.

[0124] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. Various changes may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0125] To avoid any ambiguity, any theoretical explanations provided herein are intended only to enhance the reader's understanding. The inventor does not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0126] Any chapter headings used in this article are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the topics described.

[0127] Throughout this specification, including the following claims, unless the context otherwise requires, the words “comprising” and “including”, as well as variations such as “including,” “comprising,” and “containing,” shall be understood to mean that an element or step or group of elements or steps is included, but does not exclude any other element or step or group of elements or steps.

[0128] It should be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Ranges herein may be expressed as from “about” a particular value and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from one particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when a numerical value is expressed as an approximation by the antecedent “about,” it should be understood that the particular value constitutes another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to numerical values ​​is optional and, for example, indicates + / - 10%.

Claims

1. A bone transport device for transporting bone fragments, the bone transport device comprising: Slender shaft; A tubular housing surrounding the elongated shaft; A slider, which is slidably mounted on the elongated shaft within the housing; An actuator configured to cause the slider to slide axially along a sliding segment of the elongated shaft; A first cable portion, which can be fixedly connected to a bone connector located outside the tubular housing, and the first cable portion is also fixedly connected to the slider inside the tubular housing; The first cable portion is configured to transmit sliding force to the bone connector when the slider moves along the sliding segment of the elongated axis; The bone transport device is characterized in that the sliding section is surrounded by the solid portion of the tubular housing, and the first cable portion passes through a first hole in the wall of the tubular housing.

2. The bone transport device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first cable portion surrounds through the first hole and includes an inner section extending from the slider substantially axially into the first hole and an outer section extending adjacent to the solid portion of the housing.

3. The bone transport device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The solid portion of the tubular housing includes a first channel on the first outer surface of the solid portion for receiving the outer segment of the first cable portion.

4. The bone transport device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, It also includes a first pulley, wherein the first cable portion surrounds the first pulley.

5. The bone transport device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Also includes: The second cable portion is fixedly connected to the bone connector located outside the tubular housing, and the second cable portion is also fixedly connected to the slider inside the tubular housing; The second cable portion is configured to transmit sliding force to the bone connector as the slider moves along the sliding segment of the elongated axis; and The second cable portion passes through a second hole in the wall of the tubular housing.

6. The bone transport device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second cable portion surrounds through the second hole and includes an inner section extending from the slider substantially axially into the second hole and an outer section extending adjacent to the solid portion of the tubular housing.

7. The bone transport device according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a second pulley, wherein the second cable portion surrounds the second pulley.

8. The bone transport device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The first hole and the second hole are axially spaced apart from each other by the solid portion of the tubular housing.

9. The bone transport device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first cable portion is integrally formed with or connected to the second cable portion.

10. The bone transport device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The first cable portion connects to the second cable portion at or within the bone connector; and The connection between the first cable portion and the second cable portion is configured to be at least partially released when a predetermined tension is applied.

11. The bone transport device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The predetermined tensile force is less than the tensile force related to the tensile strength of the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion.

12. The bone transport device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The first cable section is connected to the second cable section via a compression retainer.

13. The bone transport device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The slider includes a cable hole for receiving the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion, and a recess located in the radial outer surface of the slider, the recess exposing the cable hole.

14. The bone transport device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The slider includes a cable hole for receiving the first cable portion and the second cable portion, and a recess located in the radial outer surface of the slider, the recess exposing the cable hole, wherein the first cable portion and the second cable portion are connected within the recess.

15. The bone transport device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The second hole is radially opposite to the first hole.

16. The bone transport device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The solid portion of the tubular housing includes a second channel on the second outer surface of the solid portion for receiving the outer segment of the second cable portion, the second outer surface being radially opposite to the first outer surface.

17. The bone transport device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The slider is rotated and fixed relative to the tubular housing.

18. A bone transport device for transporting bone fragments, the bone transport device comprising: Slender shaft; A tubular housing surrounding the elongated shaft, the tubular housing including a first hole in its wall; A slider, which is slidably mounted on the elongated shaft within the housing; An actuator configured to cause the slider to slide axially along a sliding segment of the elongated shaft; A first cable portion, which can be fixedly connected to a bone connector located outside the tubular housing, and the first cable portion is fixedly connected to the slider inside the tubular housing; The first cable portion passes through the first hole and is configured to transmit sliding force to the bone connector when the slider moves along the sliding segment of the axis; The bone transport device is characterized in that the slider is rotated and fixed relative to the tubular housing.

19. The bone transport device according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The radial outer surface of the slider is configured to abut against and / or engage a portion of the inner surface of the tubular housing.

20. The bone transport device according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that, The slider has a generally elliptical cross-section, the maximum principal diameter of which is greater than the minimum diameter of the cross-section of the tubular shell.

21. The bone transport device according to any one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that, The slider includes a fixing element that allows the slider to be rotated and fixed relative to the tubular housing.

22. The bone transport device according to claim 21, characterized in that, The fixing element is a lug, and the bone transport device further includes a mating groove. The lug is located on one of the inner surface of the tubular housing and the radial outer surface of the slider, while the groove is located on the other of the inner surface of the tubular housing and the radial outer surface of the slider.

23. The bone transport device according to any one of claims 17 to 22, characterized in that, The slider includes a shaft hole, and the elongated shaft is slidably received within the shaft hole, the shaft hole being radially offset relative to the longitudinal axis of the slider.

24. The bone transport device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It also includes the bone connector, wherein the bone connector includes at least one cable receiving portion configured to at least partially receive the first cable portion and / or the second cable portion, the at least one cable receiving portion being insertable into the bone block.

25. A method for transporting bone fragments using the bone transport device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The bone transport method includes: Connect the first axial end of the bone transport device to the first bone portion; Connect the second axial end of the bone transport device to the second bone portion; A cortical incision is performed on the first bone portion to obtain the bone block; Securely connect the bone connector to the bone block; and The slider is axially slid along the sliding section of the elongated shaft to transport the bone block.

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