Bone plate with polygonal locking holes with threaded interruptions and related system

Abstract

A bone plate defines an inner surface that defines a hole extending through the plate along an axis, plate threads configured for locking with a threaded head of a locking screw, a first post, a second post, and a third post positioned sequentially about the axis, a first corner extending tangentially from the second post to the first post, and a second corner extending tangentially from the third post to the first post. The first corner and the second corner are spaced substantially equidistant from the axis. Plate threads extend across the first post, the second post, and the third post and the first corner and the second corner. The inner surface defines a recess between the second post and the third post and facing the first post. An apex of the recess is spaced further from the axis than the first corner and the second corner, such that the recess circumferentially interrupts at least a portion of at least one of the plate threads.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to bone plates for receiving bone anchors to attach bone plates to bone, and more particularly to bone plates having threaded fixing holes including thread breaks. Background Technology

[0002] Bone plate systems for internal fixation of fractures are well known. Conventional bone plate systems are particularly well-suited for promoting fracture healing. Bone anchors, such as bone screws, are inserted through fixation openings or holes in the bone plate and screwed into the bone to compress, offset, support, tension, bind, and / or bridge the fracture ends together. Bone screws capable of locking to the bone plate can be used to transfer the load from one fractured bone segment across the plate to another fractured bone segment without pulling the bone against the plate, and to prevent the bone screw from loosening or coming out relative to the plate (which can lead to poor alignment and poor clinical outcomes). One known embodiment of such screws employs a screw head with external threads that engage with corresponding threads on the inner surface of the fixation hole (hereinafter referred to as a "locking hole") to lock the screw to the plate. These screws (hereinafter referred to as "locking screws") may include: standard locking screws configured to be locked in a mounting hole in substantially only a "nominal" orientation, whereby the axis of the center screw is substantially aligned with the axis of the center hole; and "variable angle" (VA) locking screws configured to be locked in a mounting hole in a nominal or "angled" orientation, whereby the axis of the center screw is oriented at an acute angle relative to the corresponding axis of the center hole.

[0003] Bone plate systems can also be adapted to provide anatomical reduction between fractured bone segments. Such systems include bone plates comprising one or more holes with ramp geometry that engages the smooth outer surface of the screw head of a "compression screw" in a manner that induces dynamic compression, meaning the bone plate translates relative to the compression screw and the underlying bone in a direction generally perpendicular to the screw axis of the compression screw. These holes are referred to hereinafter as "compression holes." Bone plates may include both locking holes and compression holes. For example, one or more locking holes may be used to receive a locking screw that attaches the bone plate to a first underlying bone segment. One or more compression holes may then be used to receive a compression screw that drives into a second underlying bone segment and effectively pushes the bone plate in a translational direction that reduces the gap between the first and second underlying bone segments via engagement between the head of the compression screw and the ramp geometry within the hole. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a bone plate has an outer surface, a bone-facing surface opposite the outer surface, and an inner surface defining at least one hole extending from the outer surface to the bone-facing surface along a central hole axis. The inner surface further defines plate threads extending between the outer surface and the bone-facing surface and configured for locking engagement with external threads on the head of a locking bone screw; a first post, a second post, and a third post sequentially positioned about the central hole axis; a first bend extending tangentially from a first side of the second post to a second side of the first post; and a second bend extending tangentially from the second side of the third post to a first side of the first post. The first bend and the second bend are substantially equidistant from the central hole axis by a first distance measured along a radial direction perpendicular to the central hole axis. The plate threads extend across the first post, the second post, and the third post and across the first bend and the second bend. The inner surface further defines a recess located between the second post and the third post and facing the first post. The apex of the recess is spaced apart from the axis of the central hole by a second distance greater than the first distance, such that the recess circumferentially interrupts at least a portion of the thread profile of at least one of these plate threads.

[0005] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the bone fixation system includes a bone plate having an outer surface, a bone-facing surface opposite the outer surface, and an inner surface defining at least one hole extending from the outer surface to the bone-facing surface along a central hole axis. The inner surface further defines plate threads extending between the outer surface and the bone-facing surface; a first post, a second post, and a third post sequentially positioned about the central hole axis; a first bend extending tangentially from a first side of the second post to a second side of the first post; and a second bend extending tangentially from the second side of the third post to a first side of the first post. The first bend and the second bend are substantially equidistant from the central hole axis by a first distance measured along a radial direction perpendicular to the central hole axis. The plate threads extend across the first post, the second post, and the third post, and across the first bend and the second bend. The inner surface further defines a recess located between the second post and the third post and facing the first post. The apex of the recess is spaced from the axis of the central hole by a second distance greater than the first distance, such that the recess circumferentially interrupts at least a portion of the thread profile of at least one of the plate threads. The bone fixation system includes a bone screw having a head and a shaft extending distally from the head. The shaft has external threads configured to engage the underlying bone, and the head is configured to engage any one of the first, second, and third posts in a manner that attaches the bone plate to the underlying bone.

[0006] According to an additional embodiment of this disclosure, a bone fixation system includes a bone plate having an outer surface, a bone-facing surface opposite the outer surface, and an inner surface defining at least one hole extending from the outer surface to the bone-facing surface along a central hole axis. The inner surface further defines plate threads extending between the outer surface and the bone-facing surface; a first post, a second post, and a third post sequentially positioned about the central hole axis; a first bend extending tangentially from a first side of the second post to a second side of the first post; and a second bend extending tangentially from the second side of the third post to a first side of the first post. The first bend and the second bend are substantially equidistant from the central hole axis by a first distance measured along a radial direction perpendicular to the central hole axis. The plate threads extend across the first post, the second post, and the third post, and across the first bend and the second bend. The inner surface further defines a recess located between the second post and the third post and facing the first post. The apex of the recess is spaced from the axis of the central hole by a second distance greater than the first distance, such that the recess circumferentially interrupts at least a portion of the thread profile of at least one of the plate threads. The bone fixation system includes an instrument having a distal mounting portion comprising a first configuration configured to mate with the hole and a protrusion extending outwardly from the first configuration. The protrusion and the recess define complementary geometries such that the protrusion is configured to mate with the recess in a manner that secures the first configuration to the hole. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present application will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Exemplary embodiments are shown in the drawings to illustrate the structure of the present application. However, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the precise arrangements and means shown. In the drawings:

[0008] Figure 1A This is a top perspective view of a bone plate having a threaded locking hole including a recess, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A Top perspective view of the bone plate shown;

[0010] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A A top view of the bone plate shown;

[0011] Figure 1D yes Figure 1A The top perspective view of the hole shown;

[0012] Figure 1E It is along Figure 1CA side view of the cross-section of the hole, taken from the apex of the recess shown;

[0013] Figure 1F yes Figure 1E The cross-sectional side view of the hole shown shows the head of the bone screw inserted at the nominal insertion angle;

[0014] Figure 1G yes Figure 1E The cross-sectional side view of the hole shown shows the head of the bone screw inserted at an angle;

[0015] Figure 2A This is a top view of a bone plate having a threaded locking hole including a recess according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the recess has a smaller than Figure 1A The width of the hole shown;

[0016] Figure 2B It is along Figure 2A A side view of the cross-section of the hole, taken from the apex of the recess shown;

[0017] Figure 3A This is a top perspective view of a bone plate having a threaded locking hole including a recess, according to another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A top view of the bone plate shown;

[0019] Figure 3C It is along Figure 3B A side view of the cross-section of the hole, taken from the apex of the recess shown;

[0020] Figure 4A This is a top perspective view of a bone plate having a threaded locking hole including an elongated recess, according to another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A top view of the bone plate shown;

[0022] Figure 4C It is along Figure 4B A perspective view of the cross-section of the hole taken from the apex of the elongated recess shown;

[0023] Figure 5A It is a configuration for use with similar embodiments of this disclosure. Figures 1A to 4C A perspective view of a drill guide used together with those threaded locking holes shown;

[0024] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A cross-sectional side view of a portion of the drill guide shown, depicted as being positioned in a hole;

[0025] Figure 6A This is a top perspective view of a bone plate according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the bone plate having a configuration similar to Figures 1A to 4C Multiple threaded locking holes as shown;

[0026] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A The top view of the bone plate is shown; and

[0027] Figure 6C yes Figure 6B A magnified top view of one of the holes shown. Detailed Implementation

[0028] This disclosure will be more readily understood with reference to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and examples that form a part of this disclosure. It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific apparatus, method, application, condition, or parameters described and / or shown herein, and the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used in this specification (including the appended claims), the singular forms “a” and “the” include the plural, and references to a particular numerical value include at least that particular value.

[0029] As used herein, the term "multiple" means more than one. When referring to a range of values, another embodiment includes from one specific value and / or to other specific values. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation using "about," it should be understood that the specific value of that value constitutes another embodiment. All ranges include end values ​​and are composable.

[0030] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” relating to dimensions, angles, ratios, and other geometries take into account manufacturing tolerances. Furthermore, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” can include being greater than or less than 10% of the stated dimension, ratio, or angle. Additionally, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” can be applied equivalently to the specific values ​​stated.

[0031] As used herein, the term "dynamic compression" refers to the action of engaging the bone anchor against the bone plate in a manner that causes the bone plate to translate relative to the bone anchor and the underlying patient anatomy (e.g., the underlying bone) along an axis that is generally perpendicular to the axis along which the bone anchor is inserted into the underlying bone.

[0032] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to bone plates having polygonal (e.g., triangular) VA locking holes with additional recesses or "key cuts." As described below, the additional recesses may be adapted for one or more different purposes, including: for complementary construction mating with instruments and / or tools used with the bone plate; for providing an adjacent portion of the plate hole thread with enhanced deformation characteristics to improve locking engagement with the head of a locking screw; for providing additional space in which the screw head can form an angle; and, by a non-limiting example, for increasing potential plate translational distance during dynamic compression.

[0033] Now for reference Figures 1A to 1G According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the bone plate 4 has a plate body 5 in which a variable angle (VA) locking hole 6 extending through the plate body 5 is defined. The plate body 5 defines an inner surface 24 that defines the hole 6. The inner surface 24 further defines one or more locking structures within the hole 6, such as internal threads 9. The internal threads 9 may also be referred to as “plate threads” or “hole threads”. The plate threads 9 extend along the inner surface 24 along one or more thread paths. The inner surface 24 also defines at least one recess 70 that interrupts at least some of the plate threads 9, as described in more detail below. The portion of the inner surface 24 within the recess 70 may be characterized as a “recess surface” 72. The recess 70 may also be referred to as a “key cut”. The hole 6 is configured for use with complementary locking bone anchors such as locking screws 8, such as Figures 1F to 1G As shown, the locking screw may include a shaft 25 and a head 27, the shaft advancing through the hole 6 and into the underlying bone 99, the head being attached to the inner surface 24, as described in more detail below. Although the examples of bone anchors discussed below refer to bone screws, it should be understood that other types of bone anchors are also within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, although the exemplary embodiment of the hole 6 shows the hole 6 having a single recess 70, in other embodiments, the hole 6 may include more than one recess 70.

[0034] like Figures 1A to 1BAs shown, the plate body 5 defines a first end 10 and an opposing second end 12, which may be spaced apart from each other along a first direction or longitudinal direction X. The plate body 5 may also define a first transverse side 14 and an opposing second transverse side 16, which may be spaced apart from each other along a second direction or transverse direction Y. The longitudinal and transverse directions may be substantially perpendicular to each other. The bone plate 4 may also define an upper plate surface 18 (also referred to herein as the "outer surface" 18) configured to face away from the bone and an opposing lower plate surface 20 (also referred to herein as the "bone-facing surface") configured to face the bone. The upper plate surface 18 and the lower plate surface 20 are spaced apart from each other along a third direction or vertical direction Z deviating from the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y. For example, the longitudinal direction X, the transverse direction Y, and the vertical direction Z may be substantially perpendicular to each other. It should be understood that, as used herein, the terms “longitudinal,” “longitudinally,” and their derivatives refer to the longitudinal direction X; the terms “lateral,” “laterally,” and their derivatives refer to the lateral direction Y; and the terms “vertical,” “vertically,” and their derivatives refer to the vertical direction Z. It should also be understood that a plane encompassing both the longitudinal direction X and the lateral direction Y may be referred to herein as the “horizontal” plane XY.

[0035] Hole 6 extends from the upper plate surface 18 to the lower plate surface 20 along the central hole axis 22. The central hole axis 22 is oriented along the axial hole direction. As used herein, the term "axial direction" (e.g., "axial hole direction" and "axial screw direction") is defined as the direction along which the corresponding axis extends. Furthermore, the directional terms "axial," "axially," and their derivatives refer to the corresponding axis. Thus, as used herein, the directional term "axially upward" and its derivatives refer to the axial hole direction from the lower plate surface 20 toward the upper plate surface 18. Conversely, the term "axially downward" and its derivatives refer to the axial hole direction from the upper plate surface 18 toward the lower plate surface 20. Thus, "axially upward" and "axially downward" are each unidirectional component of the bidirectional "axial." In the embodiment depicted in the figures, the axial hole direction (and therefore the central hole axis 22) is oriented along the vertical direction Z. Therefore, the axial hole direction is also represented by "Z" throughout this disclosure. However, it should be understood that the scope of this disclosure covers embodiments in which the axial hole direction (and therefore the central hole axis 22) is offset from the vertical direction Z by an angle of inclination. It should also be understood that when referring to bone screws such as locking screw 8, the terms "axially upward," "axially downward," etc., refer to the central axis 52 of the screw, especially when the screw will be oriented within the hole 6 (see...). Figures 1F to 1G ).

[0036] The inner surface 24 is located from the hole 6 on the upper plate surface 18 ( Figure 1AThe upper periphery 30 at the interface of the hole 6 extends axially downward. The inner surface 24 preferably includes one or more introduction surfaces or chamfers extending axially downward from the upper periphery 30 into the hole 6. For example, as Figures 1C to 1D As shown, this embodiment includes a first introduction surface 34a that connects to the upper periphery 30 and a second introduction surface 34b that extends axially downward from the first introduction surface 34a. The introduction surfaces 34a and 34b may extend a full circle around the central hole axis 22, as shown, or may extend less than a full circle around the central hole axis 22. The inner surface 24 also includes a main surface or locking surface 35 in which a locking structure (e.g., a plate thread 9) is formed. The inner surface 24 may also define one or more undercut surfaces (also referred to herein as "roughened surfaces") located from the hole 6 on the lower plate surface 20 (… Figure 1B The lower periphery 32 at the interface of the main surface 35 extends axially upward. For example, this embodiment includes a first undercut surface 36a that is connected to the lower periphery 32 and a second undercut surface 36b that extends axially upward from the first undercut surface 36a toward the main surface 35. The undercut surfaces 36a and 36b may extend around the central hole axis 22 in a complete circle, as shown in the figure, or they may extend around the central hole axis 22 in less than a complete circle.

[0037] The locking mechanism of hole 6 can be configured to allow the insertion of locking screw 8 into VA. For example, refer to Figure 1C The locking structure may include posts 26 sequentially positioned circumferentially around an inner surface 24. The inner surface 24 also defines a plurality of recesses 28 sequentially circumferentially positioned between the posts 26. In other words, the posts 26 and recesses 28 are alternately arranged along the circumference of the inner surface 24. The recesses 28 are also referred to herein as “rounded corners” or “corners.” The posts 26 and corners 28 extend axially between the upper plate surface 18 and the lower plate surface 20. The posts 26 and corners 28 may be uniformly spaced along the circumference of the hole 6. However, in other embodiments, the posts 26 and / or corners 28 may be non-uniformly spaced around the circumference of the hole 6. Each corner of the corners 28 may define a central corner axis 37, each central corner axis may be parallel to the central hole axis 22, but other orientations of the central corner axis 37 are possible. Each central corner axis 37 may also be spaced apart from the central hole axis 22 by a distance R1, as measured along a radial direction R perpendicular to the central hole axis 22. The recess 70 is located within one of the corners 28. The recess 70 is preferably circumferentially centered at the apex of the corresponding corner 28, such that the apex trajectory 75 of the recess 70 is circumferentially spaced equidistantly from the adjacent pillars 26. In this way, the recess 70 can be positioned, for example, directly opposite one of the non-adjacent pillars 26 along the longitudinal direction X. However, in other embodiments, the recess 70 does not need to be centered at the corner apex and does not need to be directly opposite the non-adjacent pillar 26.

[0038] The plate thread 9 extends along one or more threaded paths between the upper plate surface 18 and the lower plate surface 20, passing through at least a portion of the post 26 and the corner 28. The portion of the plate thread 9 traversing the post 26 may be referred to herein as the "post thread 9". Figure 1E As shown, the plate thread 9 has a cross-sectional profile in an axial reference plane. This cross-sectional profile, also referred to as the “thread profile,” includes a crest 56, a root 58, and upper and lower flanks 55 and 57 extending between the crest 56 and the root 58. As used herein with reference to the plate thread 9, the term “crease” refers to the apex of the fully formed thread profile. The thread profile of the plate thread 9 is configured for complementary engagement (i.e., mutual meshing) with the external thread 29 on the head 27 of the locking screw 8, particularly to provide advantageous mating engagement therebetween, including engagement at various screw angles, as described in more detail below.

[0039] like Figure 1C As shown, each post 26 may define a first surface 42 substantially facing the axis 22 of the central bore. The first surface 42 may also be referred to as the “radial innermost surface” of the post 26. Thus, the first surface 42 defines the crest 56 of the post thread 9. The first surface 42 of each post 26 extends between a first side 44 of the post 26 and a circumferentially opposite second side 45. The first side 44 and the second side 45 of each post 26 may define an interface between the post 26 and a circumferentially adjacent corner 28. The first surfaces 42 of the posts 26 may collectively define a downwardly tapered, generally frustoconical section (specifically defining a downwardly tapered, generally frustoconical shape that coincides with the axis of the central cone 22).

[0040] The one or more threaded paths may include a pair of non-intersecting threaded paths (i.e., double leads); however, in other embodiments, the one or more threaded paths may include a single threaded path (i.e., single lead) or three or more threaded paths (e.g., triple leads, etc.). The threaded paths are preferably helical, but other threaded path types are also within the scope of this disclosure. As shown, the plate thread 9 preferably circumferentially traverses each of the post 26 and the corner 28 outside the recess 70 in an uninterrupted manner. However, the recess 70 circumferentially interrupts the plate thread 9. Specifically, at least a portion of the recess surface 70 extends radially outward from the root 58 of the plate thread 9. In other words, the plate thread 9 “bottoms out” within the recess 70. In other embodiments, a portion of the corner 28 may also circumferentially interrupt the plate thread 9.

[0041] like Figures 1F to 1GAs shown, the post 26 is configured such that during the insertion of the locking screw 8 into the hole 6, the screw shaft 25 of the locking screw 8 passes around the post 26, such that the inner surface 24 within the hole 6 engages the head 27 of the locking screw 8. After the screw shaft 25 passes around the post 26, the plate thread 9 then engages the external thread 29 on the head of the locking screw 8 in a manner that provides a locking engagement between the locking screw 8 and the bone plate 4. The structure and operation of column 26 are described more fully in the following: U.S. Patent 10,772,665, issued September 15, 2020, in the name of Bosshard et al. (“'665 Reference”); U.S. Patent Publication 2019 / 0328430A1, issued October 31, 2019, in the name of Bosshard et al. (“'430 Reference”); U.S. Patent 2020 / 0390483A1, issued December 17, 2020, in the name of Oberli et al. (“'483 Reference”); and U.S. Patent Publication 2021 / 0015526A1, issued January 21, 2021, in the name of Oberli et al. (“'526 Reference”), the entire disclosure of each of these patents being incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] Refer again Figure 1C Hole 6 defines the hole shape or "profile" in the horizontal reference plane XY. The shape of hole 6 can therefore be referred to as the "horizontal hole profile". It should be understood that recess 70 deviates from the horizontal hole profile. In other words, the horizontal hole profile is defined independently of recess 70. For example, during the manufacturing process of forming hole 6 in plate body 5, hole 6 may be milled or otherwise cut into plate body 5 to define the horizontal hole profile, and recess 70 may be subsequently formed. Plate thread 9 may be formed in hole 6 before or after forming recess 70.

[0043] In this embodiment, hole 6 has a generally polygonal horizontal hole profile. Specifically, hole 6 in this embodiment has a triangular (i.e., generally triangular) horizontal profile, but in other embodiments, hole 6 may have other types of polygonal horizontal profiles (e.g., rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.), or may have a circular horizontal profile, as discussed in more detail below. The triangular hole 6 of this embodiment has a first post 26a, a second post 26b, and a third post 26c positioned clockwise along the circumference of the inner surface 24. Hole 6 also has a first corner 28a opposite the first post 26a, a second corner 28b opposite the second post 26b, and a third corner 28c opposite the third post 26c. The plate thread 9 preferably extends along a corresponding thread path corresponding to the horizontal profile of hole 6. Furthermore, other features defined by the inner surface 24 may have corresponding polygonal (e.g., triangular) horizontal profiles, including an upper periphery 30, lead-in surfaces 34a, 34b, one or more undercut surfaces 36a, 36b, and a lower periphery 32. In this way, the profile of a polygonal (e.g., triangular) horizontal hole can be extended axially from the upper periphery 30 of the hole 6 to the lower periphery 32.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface 42 of the post 26 has a linear horizontal profile. In other embodiments, one or more of the first surfaces 42 may have an arcuate profile with a relatively large radius (as measured from the central hole axis 22). Each post 26 may define a post centerline 43 equidistantly spaced between a first side 44 and a second side 45 of the post 26. In a horizontal reference plane XY, the hole 6 may be defined at the post centerline 43 with a principal radius R2 measured from the central hole axis 22 to the first surface 42 of the post 26. It should be understood that various horizontal dimensions of the hole 6 (including the principal radius R2 and other horizontal dimensions) may be nominally measured along a horizontal midplane MP equidistantly located between the upper plate surface 18 and the lower plate surface 20 (see [reference]). Figure 1E Additionally, the position where the central hole axis 22 intersects the horizontal mid-plane MP defines the geometric center GC of hole 6, which is also used for the nominal size of hole 6.

[0045] Continue to refer to Figure 1CIn this embodiment, corner 28 extends tangentially from the first side 44 and the second side 45 of the associated post 26. In this way, the first surface 42 of post 26 effectively defines the "side" of the triangle, while corner 28 effectively defines the corner of the triangle, each viewed in a horizontal reference plane. Therefore, post 26 of this embodiment can also be referred to as the "side" of the triangular hole 6, respectively. Each of the corners 28 defines a corner radius R3 measured from the corner axis 37. Each of the corners 28 is also located at a distance R4 measured radially from the central hole axis 22. Therefore, the maximum value of distance R4 is located at the apex of corner 28. Recess 70 is located at a distance R5 measured radially from the central hole axis. Therefore, the maximum value of distance R5 is located at the vertex trajectory 75 of recess 70. Hole 6 is preferably configured such that, in any reference plane orthogonal to the central hole axis 22 located between the upper end 74 and the lower end 76 of the recess surface 72, the maximum value of distance R5 is greater than the maximum value of distance R4. In other words, the recess 70 is positioned further away from the central hole axis 22 in the radial direction R than the corner 28. The plate thread 9 extends along a corresponding spline that spirally rotates about the central hole axis 22 along the triangular profile of the inner surface 24 between the upper plate surface 18 and the lower plate surface 20. Furthermore, the inner surface 24 (including the post 26 and the corner 28) tapers inward toward the central hole axis 22 from the upper plate surface 18 to the lower plate surface 20. Moreover, as shown, outside the recess 70, the plate thread 9 can circumferentially traverse the post 26 and the corner 28 without interruption (i.e., the plate thread 9 does not need to bottom out in the corner 28). Therefore, outside the recess 70, the plate thread 9 can smoothly and continuously transition between the post 26 and the corner 28.

[0046] The first surface 42 of each post 26 defines a post length LC measured between the sides 44, 45 of the post 26. In this embodiment, the post length LC may be substantially consistent within each post 26 as the threaded path advances from the upper plate surface 18 toward the lower plate surface 20. In such embodiments, the post length LC may also be referred to as the “side length” LC of the triangular hole 6. Posts 26a-26c of this embodiment may have substantially equal post lengths LC, thus providing a hole 6 with a substantially equilateral triangle, as shown. In other embodiments, as described below, the post lengths LC of two or all of these posts may be different from each other. In yet another embodiment, the post lengths LC of one or more, and at most all, of the posts 26 may increase successively as movement proceeds from the upper plate surface 18 toward the lower plate surface 20, thereby causing the corner radius R3 to gradually decrease toward the lower plate surface 20.

[0047] Now for reference Figure 1DThe recess 70 extends axially between the upper plate surface 18 and the lower plate surface 20. The recess surface 72 has a first end or upper end 74 and a second end or lower end 76 spaced apart from each other relative to the vertical direction Z. The upper end 74 of the recess surface 72 may reside in the inlet surfaces 34a, 34b of the hole 6. In this embodiment, the upper end 74 is located within the second inlet surface 34b; however, in other embodiments, the upper end 74 may be in contact with the upper plate surface 18 (and thus define a portion of the upper periphery 30 of the hole 6) or may reside in the first inlet surface 34a or the main surface 35. The lower end 76 of the recess surface 72 may reside in the undercut surfaces 36a, 36b of the hole 6. In this embodiment, the lower end 76 is located within the second undercut surface 36b; however, in other embodiments, the lower end 76 may be in contact with the lower plate surface 20 (and thus define a portion of the lower periphery 32 of the hole 6) or may reside in the first undercut surface 36a or the main surface 35. It should be understood that the recess 70 may be located at different axial portions of the hole 6. For example, in some embodiments, the recess 70 may be completely residing within the upper axial portion of the hole 6.

[0048] The recessed surface 72 also extends horizontally from the first side 78 to the second side 80 around the circumference of the hole 6. As shown, the first side 78 and the second side 80 of the recessed surface 72 are away from the circumferentially adjacent post 26. In other embodiments, the first side 78 and the second side 80 of the recessed surface 72 may extend to the respective proximal sides 44, 45 of the circumferentially adjacent post 26 and share a common boundary with them, preferably not extending into the post 26. The recess 70 defines a recess width W, as shown in a horizontal reference plane ( Figure 1C The recess 70 is measured between the first side 78 and the second side 80. The recess 70 also defines a radial recess depth RD, such as along the radial direction R( Figure 1E The measurements are taken from the first side 78 and the second side 80 to the vertex trajectory 75. It should be understood that the width W and depth RD of the recess can be measured at the horizontal mid-plane MP. The first side 78 and the second side 80 of the recess surface 72 define corresponding thread interface boundaries 82, 84 with the thread profile of the plate thread 9. In the embodiment shown herein, the plate thread 9 is completely circumferentially interrupted within the recess 70. Therefore, the plate thread 9 reaches the bottom along the recess surface 72, such that the root 58 of the plate thread 9 reaches the corresponding circumferential end portion 79 of the thread 9 along the thread interface boundaries 82, 84.

[0049] Refer again Figure 1EIn the axial reference plane, the crest 56 of the plate thread 9 extends along the crest trajectory axis 46. In this embodiment, the crest trajectory axis 46 is linear and may be oriented at an acute crest trajectory angle A1 relative to the central hole axis 22. The crest trajectory angle A1 may be in the range of about 5 degrees to about 30 degrees, and more particularly in the range of about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees, and more preferably in the range of about 13 degrees to about 17 degrees. The crest trajectory angle A1 may be greater than the angle at which the first introduction surface 34a descends into the hole 6 (as measured relative to the central hole axis 22). The first introduction surface 34a may have a linear profile in the reference plane, as shown; however, in other embodiments, the first introduction surface 34a may have an arcuate profile in the reference plane. It should be understood that the second introduction surface 34b may have a concave arcuate profile that provides a transition from the first introduction surface 34a to the main surface 35 of the hole 6. In other embodiments, the second introduction surface 34b may have a linear profile in the axial reference plane.

[0050] The recess 70 extends along a central recess axis 77. In this embodiment, the central recess axis 77 is offset from the central hole axis 22 at an angle of A2. In other embodiments, the central recess axis 77 may be parallel to the central hole axis 22. As shown, the central recess axis 77 is separated from the geometric center GC of the hole 6 by an axial separation distance G1, as measured along a direction perpendicular to the central recess axis 77. By way of non-limiting example, the recess surface 72 may have various three-dimensional (3D) geometries or "shapes," such as cylinders, cones (e.g., truncated cones), prisms, or spheres, or segments thereof. In this embodiment, the recess surface 72 defines a cylindrical segment having a central axis extending along with the central recess axis 77. Thus, in this embodiment, the recess vertex trajectory 75 defines a recess cone angle A3 measured from the central hole axis 22 to the vertex trajectory 75, which is equivalent to the recess axis angle A2. Therefore, the apex trajectory 75 of the recess is spaced apart from the central recess axis 77 by a distance D1, as measured along a direction perpendicular to the central recess axis 77. In this embodiment, the distance D1 is actually the radius of the cylindrical segment. In this embodiment, the recess axis angle A2 and the recess cone angle A3 are slightly smaller than the tooth crest trajectory angle A1, thus causing the radial recess depth RD to increase as it moves axially downward along the recess surface 70. The relative orientation of the tooth crest trajectory axis 46 and the central recess axis 77, combined with the cylindrical geometry of the recess surface 72, also causes the recess width W to increase as it moves from the upper end 74 to the lower end 76 of the recess 70. The recess axis angle A2 and the recess cone angle A3 can each be in the range of about 3 degrees to about 30 degrees, and more particularly in the range of about 7 degrees to about 20 degrees, and more preferably in the range of about 11 degrees to about 15 degrees. In other embodiments, one or both of the recess axis angle A1 and the recess cone angle A3 may be substantially equivalent to the tooth crest trajectory angle A1.

[0051] Now for reference Figures 1F to 1G The threaded engagement between the description plate thread 9 and the external thread 29 on the head 27 of the VA locking screw 8 is described. Figure 1F The locking screw 8 is shown inserted in its nominal orientation (i.e., when the screw 8 is inserted along the screw axis 52, which extends substantially together with the axis 22 of the center hole). Figure 1GA locking screw 8 inserted at an angle (i.e., when the screw axis 52 is oriented at an acute angle A0 relative to the center hole axis 22) is shown. Such an angled screw orientation may be referred to as "angled". The post 26 and corner 28 of the triangular hole 6 provide a favorable threaded locking interface between the plate thread 9 and the screw head thread 29, as described more fully in reference '483. Furthermore, the presence of the recess 70 provides additional benefits. For example, by interrupting the plate thread 9 in the aforementioned manner, the portion of the plate thread 9 along and adjacent to the thread interface boundaries 82, 84 exhibits increased deformation during threaded engagement with the thread 29 of the head 27 of the VA locking screw 8. This increase in deformation of the plate thread 9 has been shown to enhance the threaded locking interface between the plate thread 9 and the thread 29 of the screw head 27, as described more fully in reference '430. Furthermore, as Figure 1G As shown, the presence of the recess 70 provides additional space in which the head 27 can be angled. It should also be understood that the recess cone angle A3 keeps the apex of the recess close to the screw head 27, thereby providing the aforementioned benefits while also limiting any reduction in plate strength caused by the presence of the recess 70.

[0052] Now for reference Figures 2A to 2B Another embodiment of the VA locking hole 6 is shown, wherein the recess 70 has a larger diameter than the VA locking hole 6. Figures 1A to 1E The recess width W of the illustrated embodiment is smaller. The hole 6 of this additional embodiment is similar to the hole 6 described above in other respects. Therefore, similar reference numerals from the above embodiments will also be used in this additional embodiment. As with the hole 6 described above, the recess surface 72 defines a cylindrical segment extending along the central recess axis 77, which is oriented at a recess axis angle A2. In this embodiment, the distance D1 is smaller than that in the above embodiments, while the axis separation distance G1 is larger than that in the above embodiments, such that the recess apex trajectory 75 is spaced apart from the central hole axis by a radial distance substantially equivalent to that in the above embodiments. In the additional embodiment, the geometry, size, and spacing of the recess 70 can be varied as needed, including one or more, and all, of the recess shape, recess width W, recess depth RD, recess axis angle A2, axis separation distance G1, recess cone angle A3, and distance D1, while remaining within the scope of this disclosure.

[0053] Now for reference Figures 3A to 3CAn additional embodiment of the VA locking hole 6 is shown, wherein the recess axis 77 is parallel to the central hole axis 22. Therefore, in this embodiment, the axial separation distance G1 is measured along the radial direction R. In such embodiments, and when the central hole axis 22 is oriented along the vertical direction Z, the recess apex trajectory 75 is also oriented along the vertical direction Z. The hole 6 of this embodiment is otherwise substantially similar to the hole 6 described above. Therefore, similar reference numerals from the above embodiments will also be used for this additional embodiment. For simplicity, the following disclosure will focus primarily on the differences between the VA locking holes 6 of this embodiment and those differences from the above embodiments.

[0054] In this embodiment, the recessed surface 72 may include a main portion 72a that defines a cylindrical segment and includes a recess apex trajectory 75. The recessed surface 72 also includes an extension 72b extending from the main portion 72a toward a central region of the bore 6 (e.g., along the longitudinal direction X). The extension 72b may include opposing side surfaces 86, 88 that may extend parallel to each other and define portions of respective side surfaces 78, 80 of the recessed surface 72. In other embodiments, the opposing side surfaces 86, 88 may extend at an angle relative to each other. For example, the opposing side surfaces 86, 88 may taper away from each other toward the central region of the bore 6, or may taper toward each other toward the central region of the bore 6. Due to the tooth apex trajectory angle A1, the extension 72b and its opposing side surfaces 86, 88 are primarily located within the lower axial portion of the bore 6, such as... Figure 3C As shown. In an additional embodiment, the axial separation distance G1 may be increased along the longitudinal direction X, thereby also increasing the recess depth RD, and also increasing the corresponding length D2 of the opposing side surfaces 86, 88 along the longitudinal direction X. It should be understood that the distance G1 and the recess depth RD may be increased as needed. For example, in another embodiment, one or both of the axial separation distance G1 and the recess depth RD may extend radially beyond the upper periphery 30 of the hole 6 (or at least beyond the portion of the upper periphery 30 away from the recess 70).

[0055] Now for reference Figures 4A to 4C This illustrates another embodiment of the VA locking hole 6, in which the length LC-2 of the second post 26b and the third post 26c (i.e., the two posts 26b, 26c adjacent to the recess 70) is greater than the length LC-1 of the first post 26a (i.e., the post 26a opposite to the recess 70). Therefore, the second post 26b and the third post 26c can be characterized as being elongated relative to the first post 26a. Furthermore, the width W and depth RD of the recess are greater than... Figures 3A to 3C The width and depth of the recesses in the illustrated embodiment are shown. The hole 6 in this embodiment is otherwise generally similar to the above reference. Figures 3A to 3CThe aforementioned hole 6. Therefore, similar reference numerals from the above embodiments will also be used for this additional embodiment. For the sake of simplicity, the following disclosure will focus primarily on the differences between the VA locking holes 6 of this embodiment and those differences from the above embodiments.

[0056] Compared to Figures 3A to 3C The illustrated embodiment provides at least partially an increased recess depth RD by increasing the axial separation distance G1 and / or length D2 of the opposing side surfaces 86, 88. The increased length D2 of the side surfaces 86, 88 provides a more slot-like geometry for the recess 70. In this embodiment, the recess surface 72, including its apex trajectory 75, extends fully from the upper plate surface 18 to the lower plate surface. Additionally, the elongated second post 26b and third post 26c effectively provide additional space to receive the head of the bone screw 8 when inserted at a high angle A0, which causes the head 27 to enter the first bend 28a and / or the recess 70. Furthermore, the plate threads 9 along the second elongated post 26b and third elongated post 26c, the first bend 28a, and the thread interface boundaries 82, 84 provide an increased locking threaded interface between the plate threads 9 and the screw head threads 29 at such angles A0. Furthermore, the opposing side surfaces 86, 88 may also be characterized as textured surfaces to avoid, minimize, or at least reduce contact between the steep and / or sharp edges of the plate thread 9 and the screw head thread 29 at the aforementioned high angle. In this way, the elongated second post 26b and third post 26c, as well as the side surfaces 86, 88 of the recess 70, can provide benefits similar to those more fully described in Figures 12A to 13H of reference '526.

[0057] It should be understood that the recess 70 of the VA locking hole 6 according to the above embodiment can also provide additional benefits. For example, by a non-limiting example, the recess 70 can be configured to receive and mate with a complementary structure of an instrument or tool (such as a drill guide and / or a bending pin). Additionally or alternatively, the recess 70 particularly Figures 3A to 4C The recesses shown can be used to receive guide members, such as Kirschner wires (“K-wires”), before, during, or after the insertion of bone screws into the hole 6.

[0058] Now for reference Figures 5A to 5BThe VA locking hole 6 of this disclosure can be configured to mate with instruments such as a drilling guide 102. The bone plate 4 and the drilling guide 102 together define a bone fixation system 100. The drilling guide 102 includes a guide body 104 extending along a distal direction D from a proximal end 106 to a distal end 108. The guide body defines a channel 105 extending from a proximal channel opening 107 at the proximal end 106 to a distal channel opening 109 at the distal end 108. The guide body 104 defines a distal mounting configuration 110, which can be configured to extend within the hole 6 and abut against the inner surface 24 of the hole. The distal mounting configuration 110 may include an external primary mounting surface 112 having a truncated conical shape, configured to mate with a primary surface 35 of the hole 6 such that the distal channel opening 109 opens downward toward the bone 99. The distal mounting configuration 110 may also include a protrusion 114 that extends away from the primary mounting surface 112 and has a geometry complementary to the geometry of the recess 70. Thus, as Figure 5B As shown, the protrusion 114 can be configured to reside within and engage with the recess 70 of the hole 6 in such a manner that the drilling guide 102 is fixed in the desired orientation relative to the hole 6 for aiming at the underlying bone 99.

[0059] Now for reference Figures 6A to 6B An exemplary embodiment of the bone plate 4 is shown having a plurality of VA locking holes 6, each VA locking hole having a recess 70, as described above. In this embodiment, the holes 6 are arranged to provide selective dynamic compression to the bone plate 4 along opposing first longitudinal directions X1 and second longitudinal directions X2. The plate 4 has a first end 10 and a second end 12 spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis 3 oriented along the longitudinal direction X. The first longitudinal direction X1 extends from the second end 12 to the first end 10. The second longitudinal direction X2 extends from the first end 10 to the second end 12. The holes 6 may be arranged as a first set of holes 6 along a first longitudinal region 4a of the plate 4, and as a second set of holes 6 along a second longitudinal region 4b of the plate 4. In this example, the first longitudinal region 4a and the second longitudinal region 4b extend to a common boundary at the longitudinal midpoint XM of the plate 4. Each hole 6 in the first set is oriented to provide dynamic compression in the first longitudinal direction X1 (i.e., to translate the plate 4 relative to the underlying bone 99). Each hole 6 in the second set is oriented to provide dynamic compression in the second longitudinal direction X2. It should be understood that the arrangement and orientation of the holes 6 can be adapted to provide dynamic compression capability of the plate 4 in all directions as needed to meet the requirements of a specific surgical treatment.

[0060] Now for reference Figure 6CEach hole 6 and its associated recess 70 can be configured to provide dynamic compression in response to the eccentric insertion of a bone screw, particularly a compression screw. During eccentric insertion, the compression screw is inserted along an insertion axis 52 offset by an offset distance O1 from the central hole axis 22 in an offset direction, which in this example is a second longitudinal direction X2. During such eccentric screw insertion, the recess 70 provides, among other things, additional radial space that allows the external thread on the screw shaft to advance through the hole 6 without mechanically interfering with the inner surface 24 of the hole 6. In this way, the recess 70 can increase the translational distance provided by the hole 6, thereby improving the translational capability of the bone plate 4 for dynamic compression. In addition, the presence of the recess 70 allows the eccentrically inserted screw head (denoted as 97a) to contact the inner surface 24 at a contact position 95 along the sides 78, 80 of the recess 70. The subsequent axial advance of the head of the compression screw allows the head to travel along the contact path 98 along the sides 78, 80 of the recess 70, which effectively "converges" or otherwise guides the simultaneous translation of the plate 4 relative to the screw along the second longitudinal direction X2, such as until the compression screw is fully abutted against the inner surface 24. In the fully positioned position of the compression screw head (denoted as 97b), the screw axis 55 can extend substantially co-located with the central hole axis 22. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the offset distance O1 also represents the translational distance of the plate 4 caused by dynamic compression. Furthermore, referring again... Figure 6B The orientation of each hole 6, particularly the corresponding position of the recess 70, determines the translational direction provided by the hole 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the bone plate 4 is configured to guide dynamic compression (i.e., plate translation) in a first longitudinal direction X1 or a second longitudinal direction X2. It should be understood that in other embodiments, one or more holes in the holes 6 (and their recesses 70) may be oriented to provide dynamic compression along directions deviating from the first longitudinal direction X1 and the second longitudinal direction X2.

[0061] The plate body 5, locking screw 8, and compression screw described herein may each comprise one or more biocompatible materials. By way of non-limiting example, the plate body 5 may be formed of materials selected from the group consisting of: metals, such as titanium, titanium alloys (e.g., titanium-aluminum-niobium (TAN) alloys such as Ti-6Al-7Nb, and titanium-aluminum-vanadium (TAV) alloys such as Ti-6Al-4V, titanium-molybdenum alloys (Ti-Mo) or any other molybdenum metal alloys, and nickel-titanium alloys such as nitinol), stainless steel, and cobalt-based alloys (e.g., cobalt-chromium alloys); composite materials; polymer materials; ceramic materials; and / or absorbable materials, including absorbable forms of the aforementioned material categories (metals, composites, polymers, ceramics). By way of non-limiting example, the locking screw 8 and the compression screw may be formed of materials selected from the group consisting of: metals, such as titanium, titanium alloys (e.g., TAN alloys, TAV alloys (such as Ti-6Al-4V), titanium-molybdenum alloys (Ti-Mo), or any other molybdenum metal alloys, and nickel-titanium alloys (such as nitinol)), stainless steel, cobalt-based alloys (e.g., cobalt-chromium alloys); composite materials; polymer materials; ceramic materials; and / or absorbable materials, including absorbable forms of the aforementioned material categories (metals, composites, polymers, ceramics). Preferably, the hardness of the material of the locking screw 8 and the compression screw is greater than the hardness of the material of the plate body 5. This parameter contributes to the thread locking characteristics and dynamic compression characteristics described throughout this disclosure. Preferably, the plate body 5 is primarily or entirely composed of titanium, and the locking screw 8 and the compression screw are primarily or entirely composed of TAN. However, it should be understood that other material compositions of the bone plate 4 and / or screws are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0062] In addition, the surfaces of the plate body 5 and / or screws may optionally undergo one or more processes, such as coating, treatment and / or finishing processes, which may be performed to impart certain properties to the object body material on or beneath such surfaces, such as adjusting the hardness, softness and / or friction parameters of the body material, as described more fully in references '483 and '526.

[0063] It should be understood that the various hole 6 parameters described above are provided as exemplary features for adapting the hole 6 to achieve selective locking engagement or dynamic compression using the head of the corresponding locking screw or compression screw. These parameters may be adjusted as needed without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0064] It should also be understood that, in other embodiments, the inner surface 24 of any hole 6 may be defined by an insert plate body (e.g., "insert" or "embedded member") adapted to fit within an axial hole or receptacle of the plate body 5. In such embodiments, the bone plate 4 may be provided in a kit comprising multiple interchangeable inserts with different hole 6 shapes and geometries, allowing the physician to select a specific insert that provides the desired characteristics.

[0065] It should also be understood that when numerical prepositions (e.g., "first," "second," "third") are used herein to refer to an element, component, size, or feature thereof (e.g., "first" post, "second" recess, "second" end, "first" direction), such numerical prepositions are used to distinguish the element, component, size, and / or feature from another such element, component, size, and / or feature, and are not limited to the specific numerical preposition used in this case. For example, by way of non-limiting example, a "first" post, recess, end, or direction may also be referred to as a "second" post, recess, end, or direction in different contexts without departing from the scope of this disclosure, provided that the element, component, size, and / or feature remains appropriately distinguishable in the context in which the numerical preposition is used.

[0066] Although this disclosure has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and modifications may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Specifically, one or more features from the foregoing embodiments may be used in other embodiments herein. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that existing or future processes, machines, manufactures, material compositions, apparatuses, methods, or steps may be utilized according to this disclosure to perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same results as the corresponding embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. A bone plate, comprising: The outer surface and the surface facing the bone opposite the outer surface; and An inner surface, the inner surface defining at least one hole extending along the axis of a central hole from the outer surface to the bone-facing surface, wherein the inner surface further defines: A plate thread extending between the outer surface and the bone-facing surface, wherein the plate thread is configured to engage with an external thread on the head of a locking bone screw. The first column, the second column, and the third column are positioned sequentially around the axis of the central hole; The first corner extends tangentially from the first side of the second pillar to the second side of the first pillar; The second corner extends tangentially from the second side of the third post to the first side of the first post, wherein the first corner and the second corner are substantially equidistant from the axis of the central hole by a first distance measured along a radial direction perpendicular to the axis of the central hole, and the plate thread extends across the first post, the second post and the third post and across the first corner and the second corner; The third corner extends tangentially from the second side of the second pillar to the first side of the third pillar; as well as A recess, located within the third corner between the second post and the third post and facing the first post, wherein the apex of the recess is spaced apart from the axis of the central hole by a second distance greater than the first distance, such that the recess circumferentially interrupts at least a portion of the thread profile of at least one of the plate threads.

2. The bone plate of claim 1, wherein the apex of the recess extends along an apex trajectory that tapers inward at an acute angle from the outer surface toward the bone-facing surface toward the axis of the central hole.

3. The bone plate according to claim 2, wherein the acute angle of the vertex trajectory axis is in the range of about 11 degrees to about 15 degrees.

4. The bone plate of claim 3, wherein each of the first post, the second post, and the third post defines a corresponding crest trajectory axis intersecting the crest of the thread of the plate, wherein each crest trajectory axis tapers inward at an acute angle from the outer surface toward the bone-facing surface toward the central hole axis, wherein: The acute angles of the tooth crest trajectory axis are substantially equal, and The acute angle of the vertex trajectory is smaller than the acute angle of the tooth crest trajectory axis.

5. The bone plate according to claim 2, wherein the inner surface comprises: The plate thread extends along its main axial portion, one or more lead-in surfaces extending between the outer surface and the main axial portion, and one or more undercut surfaces extending between the main axial portion and the bone-facing surface. The recessed portion extends from a first end that contacts the one or more inlet surfaces and a second end that contacts the one or more undercut surfaces.

6. The bone plate of claim 1, wherein the apex of the recess extends along a apex trajectory substantially parallel to the axis of the central hole.

7. The bone plate of claim 6, wherein the apex of the recess extends from the outer plate surface and the bone-facing surface and continues with the outer plate surface and the bone-facing surface.

8. The bone plate of claim 1, wherein the inner surface defines a recess surface located within the recess, and wherein at least a portion of the recess surface including the vertex defines a cylindrical segment.

9. The bone plate of claim 8, wherein the portion of the recessed surface is a first portion, and the recessed surface further defines a second portion extending from the first portion toward the central region of the hole, wherein the second portion defines opposing surfaces oriented parallel to each other.

10. The bone plate according to claim 1, wherein: The first column is defined by the length of the first column measured between the first side and the second side. The second column is defined by the length of the second column measured between the first side of the second column and the second side of the second column opposite to the first side of the second column. The third column is defined as the length of the third column measured between the second side of the third column and the first side of the third column opposite to the second side of the third column, wherein the length of the second column and the length of the third column are equidistant and the third column is greater than the length of the first column.

11. The bone plate according to claim 1, wherein the recess circumferentially interrupts the entire thread profile of at least one of the plate threads.

12. The bone plate of claim 11, wherein the recess circumferentially interrupts a portion of the plate threads and at most all of the entire thread profile of the plate threads.

13. The bone plate of claim 1, wherein the bone plate is elongated along a longitudinal axis, and the bone plate further includes at least one second hole configured similar to the at least one hole, wherein the longitudinal axis intersects the apex of the recess of the at least one hole and the at least one second hole.

14. A bone fixation system, comprising: A bone plate defining an outer surface, a bone-facing surface opposite the outer surface, and an inner surface defining a hole extending from the outer surface to the bone-facing surface along a central hole axis, wherein the inner surface further defines: Plate thread, the plate thread extending between the outer surface and the bone-facing surface; The first column, the second column, and the third column are positioned sequentially around the axis of the central hole; The first corner extends tangentially from the first side of the second pillar to the second side of the first pillar; The second corner extends tangentially from the second side of the third post to the first side of the first post, wherein the first corner and the second corner are substantially equidistant from the axis of the central hole by a first distance measured along a radial direction perpendicular to the axis of the central hole, and the plate thread extends across the first post, the second post and the third post and across the first corner and the second corner; The third corner extends tangentially from the second side of the second pillar to the first side of the third pillar; as well as A recess, the recess being positioned within the third corner between the second post and the third post and facing the first post, wherein the apex of the recess is spaced apart from the axis of the central hole by a second distance greater than the first distance, such that the recess circumferentially interrupts at least a portion of the thread profile of at least some of the plate threads. and A bone screw having a head and an axis extending distally from the head, wherein the axis has external threads configured to engage an underlying bone, and the head is configured to engage any of the first, second, and third posts in such a manner as to attach the bone plate to the underlying bone.

15. The bone fixation system of claim 14, wherein the head of the bone screw defines an external thread, the external thread being configured to threadily engage the plate thread in a manner that locks the head to the inner surface.

16. The bone fixation system of claim 14, wherein the outer surface of the head of the bone screw is substantially smooth and is configured such that the bone plate contacts at least a portion of the surface of the recess along the recess in a manner that is perpendicular to the underlying bone and translates relative to the underlying bone.

17. A bone fixation system, comprising: A bone plate defining an outer surface, a bone-facing surface opposite the outer surface, and an inner surface defining a hole extending from the outer surface to the bone-facing surface along a central hole axis, wherein the inner surface further defines: Plate thread, the plate thread extending between the outer surface and the bone-facing surface; The first column, the second column, and the third column are positioned sequentially around the axis of the central hole; The first corner extends tangentially from the first side of the second pillar to the second side of the first pillar; The second corner extends tangentially from the second side of the third post to the first side of the first post, wherein the first corner and the second corner are substantially equidistant from the axis of the central hole by a first distance measured along a radial direction perpendicular to the axis of the central hole, and the plate thread extends across the first post, the second post and the third post and across the first corner and the second corner; The third corner extends tangentially from the second side of the second pillar to the first side of the third pillar; as well as A recess, the recess being positioned within the third corner between the second post and the third post and facing the first post, wherein the apex of the recess is spaced apart from the axis of the central hole by a second distance greater than the first distance, such that the recess circumferentially interrupts at least a portion of the thread profile of at least one of the plate threads. and An instrument having a distal mounting portion, wherein the distal mounting portion includes a first configuration configured to mate with a hole and a protrusion extending outwardly from the first configuration, wherein the protrusion and the recess define complementary geometries such that the protrusion is configured to mate with the recess in a manner that secures the first configuration to the hole.

18. The bone fixation system of claim 17, wherein the device defines a channel extending from a proximal end of the device to a distal end of the device, wherein the central axis of the channel is configured to extend co-exist with the central hole axis when the protrusion engages with the recess.

19. The bone fixation system of claim 18, wherein the apex of the recess extends along a first apex trajectory parallel to the axis of the central hole, and the protrusion defines a apex extending along a second apex trajectory parallel to the central axis of the channel, wherein the apex of the protrusion is configured to nest with the apex of the recess.

20. The bone fixation system of claim 19, further comprising a tool configured to extend through the channel and engage the underlying bone.

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