Adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202521590211.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-16
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-07-28
AI Technical Summary
[0004]但采用石膏固定脚掌,石膏固定会限制脚部的活动,这可能导致肌肉萎缩和关节僵硬,影响功能恢复
[0018] This invention uses a sliding telescopic plate and a side plate to adjust the size of the device, making it fit the patient's foot. The device is then tightly fixed to the foot via a connector, solving the problems of existing metacarpal fracture fixation devices that leave the foot unused, have poor breathability, and are not suitable for the patient's foot.
Smart Images

Figure CN224853526U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of orthopedic auxiliary treatment technology, specifically an adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device. Background Technology
[0002] A metatarsal fracture fixation device is a medical device used to treat metatarsal fractures, primarily to stabilize the fracture site and promote healing. The metatarsal bones are important skeletal structures of the foot, composed of five bones corresponding to the toes. Metatarsal fractures are common due to sports injuries, falls, or impacts, and patients typically experience pain, swelling, and functional impairment, affecting their daily activities.
[0003] Clinically, treatment for metacarpal fractures primarily includes conservative treatment and surgical treatment. For some simple fractures, doctors may choose conservative treatment using immobilization devices. Immobilization devices are usually made of plastic, metal, or other materials, and are mostly secured using splints and casts. These devices are designed to restrict movement of the injured area, reduce pain, and prevent further injury.
[0004] However, immobilizing the foot with a plaster cast restricts foot movement, which can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, hindering functional recovery. Plaster casts can also cause discomfort, especially in hot weather, as sweat can accumulate inside, increasing the risk of skin irritation or infection. Splints are often not adjustable in size and may not fit the patient's foot properly, causing discomfort, especially with prolonged wear, potentially leading to friction, pain, or skin irritation. To address these issues, an adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device is provided. Utility Model Content
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide an adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution: an adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device, including a base;
[0007] A telescopic plate is slidably installed at one end of the base, and side plates are slidably installed on both sides of the telescopic plate. The size of the telescopic plate and side plates is adjusted to fit the patient's foot.
[0008] The base has two connectors, one for attaching to the instep and the other to the ankle.
[0009] Pressure plate;
[0010] The pressure plate is connected to two side plates on both sides by connectors, and the connectors are used to adjust the gap between the side plates and the pressure plate.
[0011] As a preferred technical solution of this utility model, the connector is set as a Velcro.
[0012] As a preferred embodiment of this utility model, two connectors are provided between the pressure plate and the side plate, and the connectors between the pressure plate and the side plate are arranged crosswise.
[0013] As a preferred technical solution of this utility model, the base, telescopic plate and side plate are all made of lightweight plastic material, and breathable sponge pads are attached to the upper end of each, and the pressure plate is made of hard silicone material.
[0014] As a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the lower ends of the base and the telescopic plate, as well as the lower ends of the telescopic plate and the side plate, are all equipped with telescopic mechanisms for adjusting the spacing, and the two telescopic mechanisms are vertically distributed.
[0015] As a preferred technical solution of this utility model, the telescopic mechanism includes a sliding frame and a sliding plate. Both sliding frames are fixedly connected to the lower end of the telescopic plate. One sliding plate is fixedly connected to the lower end of the base, and the other sliding plate is fixedly connected to the lower end of the side plate. One end of the sliding plate is slidably inserted into the sliding frame.
[0016] As a preferred technical solution of this utility model, an elastic plate is installed at one end of the sliding frame, a lever is fixedly connected to the lower end of the elastic plate, a sliding groove matching the lever is opened at the lower end of the sliding frame, a locking block is fixedly connected to both sides of the lever, and multiple locking slots matching the locking block are opened on both sides of the sliding groove.
[0017] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0018] This invention uses a sliding telescopic plate and a side plate to adjust the size of the device, making it fit the patient's foot. The device is then tightly fixed to the foot via a connector, solving the problems of existing metacarpal fracture fixation devices that leave the foot unused, have poor breathability, and are not suitable for the patient's foot. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Figure 1 This is a top view of the overall structure of the fixing device according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0020] Figure 2 This is a bottom view of the overall structure of the fixing device according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the base structure according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the telescopic mechanism according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0023] Figure 5This is an exploded view of the telescopic mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the sliding plate structure according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0025] Figure 7 This is an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 6 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;
[0026] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the openings of the side plate and pressure plate in an embodiment of this utility model.
[0027] In the diagram: 1. Base; 2. Telescopic plate; 3. Side plate; 4. Pressure plate; 5. Connector; 6. Telescopic mechanism; 61. Sliding frame; 62. Sliding plate; 63. Elastic plate; 631. Toggle block; 632. Locking block; a. First through hole; b. Second through hole; c. Third through hole. Detailed Implementation
[0028] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0029] Please see Figure 1-8 This embodiment provides an adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device, including a base 1 for the fixation device, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the base 1 can wrap around the outer side of the foot in a U-shape, conforming to the arch of the foot. A telescopic plate 2 is slidably installed at one end of the base 1. By sliding the telescopic plate 2, the length of the device can be adjusted to better fit the length of the foot. Side plates 3 are slidably installed on both sides of the telescopic plate 2. By sliding the side plates 3, the width of the device can be adjusted to better fit the width of the foot.
[0030] like Figure 1As shown, the base 1 is equipped with two connectors 5, which are Velcro fasteners. These connectors secure the base 1 to the patient's instep and ankle. The advantages of using Velcro as the connector 5 lie in its convenience and adjustability. The strong adhesive of Velcro ensures a firm fixation between the base 1 and the foot, preventing it from slipping off during patient activity. Simultaneously, the Velcro design allows patients to easily adjust the tightness themselves, ensuring comfort and stability. Furthermore, the use of Velcro reduces the complexity of traditional straps, facilitating quick and easy donning and doffing, making it particularly suitable for situations requiring frequent adjustments or examinations. The durability and ease of cleaning of Velcro also make it an ideal fastening material, effectively extending its lifespan and enhancing the overall wearing experience for the patient.
[0031] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the upper end of the side plate 3 is also connected to a pressure plate 4 via a connector 5. The gap between the pressure plate 4 and the base 1 can be adjusted via the connector 5, allowing the pressure plate 4 to fit snugly against the patient's instep and fix the position of the phalanges and metatarsals. To increase the installation stability of the pressure plate 4, two connectors 5 are used to connect the pressure plate 4 to the side plate 3. The two connectors 5 are arranged crosswise, which not only improves the firmness of the fixation but also effectively disperses the pressure, reduces local friction (contact between the side of the foot and the connector 5), and further enhances the patient's comfort and safety.
[0032] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, both the pressure plate 4 and the side plate 3 have through holes for installing two hook and loop fasteners. The hook and loop fasteners in the first connection scheme are double-sided, that is, the hook and loop fastener body has a rough side and a hook side. Taking the hook and loop fastener that is rotatably connected to the first through hole a of the side plate 3 as an example, after the other end of the hook and loop fastener passes through the second through hole b of the pressure plate 4, the hook and loop fastener is bent so that the rough side of the hook and loop fastener is connected to the hook side.
[0033] In Scheme Two, the hook and loop fastener only has a hook side, while the rough side is located on the upper end of the pressure plate 4. Taking the hook and loop fastener rotatably connected to the first through hole a on the side plate 3 as an example, the other end of the fastener passes through the second through hole b on the pressure plate 4, then through the top of the pressure plate 4 and through the third through hole c. The fastener is then bent so that it wraps around the side of the pressure plate 4, causing the hook side to adhere to the rough side above the pressure plate 4, thus completing the connection. Although Scheme Two is more complex, it increases the contact area between the fastener and the pressure plate 4, increasing the coefficient of friction. Damping also helps to stabilize the fastener. Scheme Two is not shown in the diagram.
[0034] Because a certain force needs to be applied to stabilize the foot and align the fracture site, the connector 5, attached to one end of the side plate 3, is designed as an elastic cord. This elastic cord can apply a tensile force of approximately 20 to 30 Newtons, ensuring sufficient stability and support during use. The elastic cord is made of high-strength polyester material, which has excellent abrasion resistance and elasticity, effectively resisting repeated stretching without deformation, ensuring long-term reliability and safety. Furthermore, the lightweight nature of this material makes the entire fixation device more comfortable and facilitates the patient's daily activities.
[0035] The base 1, telescopic plate 2, and side plate 3 are all made of lightweight plastic. This lightweight plastic design ensures the overall structural integrity of the device while reducing its overall weight. However, hard materials can easily cause discomfort to patients. To improve the wearing comfort of the metacarpal fracture fixation device, the inner sides of the base 1, telescopic plate 2, and side plate 3 are made of honeycomb breathable fabric combined with medical antibacterial cotton (breathable medical sponge), reducing stuffiness and sweating after wearing the device. The inner lining is replaceable for easy cleaning, reducing the risk of infection and increasing patient comfort, especially suitable for long-term wear.
[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, to facilitate the sliding adjustment of the telescopic plate 2 and the side plate 3, telescopic mechanisms 6 for adjusting the spacing are installed at the lower ends of the base 1 and the telescopic plate 2, as well as at the lower ends of the telescopic plate 2 and the side plate 3, and the two telescopic mechanisms 6 are vertically distributed. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the telescopic mechanism 6 includes a sliding frame 61 and a sliding plate 62. The sliding frames 61 of both telescopic mechanisms 6 are fixedly connected to the lower end of the telescopic plate 2. The sliding plate 62 of one telescopic mechanism 6 is fixedly connected to the lower end of the base 1, and the sliding plate 62 of the other telescopic mechanism 6 is fixedly connected to the lower end of the side plate 3. One end of the sliding plate 62 is slidably inserted into the sliding frame 61. After the telescopic plate 2 and the side plate 3 are pulled to adjust the size, the sliding plate 62 is fixed in the sliding frame 61 by damping, thereby fixing the position of the telescopic plate 2 and the side plate 3.
[0037] However, in actual use, it was found that the vibrations generated when the patient moves (using crutches, a wheelchair, or turning over, etc.) cause the sliding plate 62 to slide within the sliding frame 61, thus changing the size of the device and preventing it from maintaining a proper fit to the patient's foot. To fix the sliding plate 62, an elastic plate 63 is provided at one end of the sliding plate 62, and a lever 631 is fixedly connected to the lower end of the elastic plate 63. Locking blocks 632 are fixedly connected to both sides of the lever 631. For example... Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, a sliding groove is provided at the lower end of the sliding frame 61, and multiple slots are provided on both sides of the sliding groove, and the multiple slots are evenly arranged in a straight line. The toggle block 631 is slidably installed in the sliding groove, and the locking block 632 is engaged in the slot.
[0038] The elastic plate 63 is made of 2-4mm thick plastic. Its thinness provides some elasticity. In use, pressing the lever 631 causes the elastic plate 63 to bend and deform, disengaging the locking block 632 from its slot. Moving the lever 631 allows the sliding plate 62 to slide. After adjusting the positions of the telescopic plate 2 and the side plate 3, releasing the finger allows the elastic plate 63 to return to its original position using its own elasticity, causing the locking block 632 to engage in the aligned slot.
[0039] Once the locking block 632 engages in the corresponding slot, it can limit the sliding plate 62, prevent the sliding plate 62 from sliding, and fix the position of the telescopic plate 2 and the side plate 3.
[0040] Compared to existing fixation methods using splints and plaster casts for metacarpal fractures, this embodiment employs a slidingly adjustable telescopic plate 2 and side plate 3 for the splint, making the device more adaptable to the patient's foot and ensuring better fit and comfort. This personalized adjustment not only improves the fixation effect but also effectively reduces pain and discomfort caused by improper fixation. Compared to traditional splints and plaster casts, this fixation device is lighter (the entire device weighs 100-150g), easier to wear, and allows patients to maintain a certain degree of flexibility in daily activities, reducing inconvenience caused by fixation. Simultaneously, the presence of an inner lining and the gaps between various components ensure good breathability, effectively preventing foot dampness and reducing the risk of infection.
[0041] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. An adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device, characterized in that, include: Base (1); A telescopic plate (2) is slidably installed at one end of the base (1), and side plates (3) are slidably installed on both sides of the telescopic plate (2). The telescopic plate (2) and the side plates (3) are adjusted to fit the size of the device so that the device fits the patient's foot. Two connectors (5) are installed on the base (1) for binding the instep and ankle respectively; Pressure plate (4); The pressure plate (4) is connected to the two side plates (3) on both sides by connectors (5), and the connectors (5) are used to adjust the gap between the side plates (3) and the pressure plate (4).
2. The adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connector (5) is configured as a Velcro strap.
3. The adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device according to claim 2, characterized in that: Two connectors (5) are provided between the pressure plate (4) and the side plate (3), and the connectors (5) between the pressure plate (4) and the side plate (3) are arranged crosswise.
4. The adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The base (1), telescopic plate (2) and side plate (3) are all made of lightweight plastic, and breathable sponge pads are attached to the upper end of each. The pressure plate (4) is made of hard silicone.
5. The adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The lower ends of the base (1) and the telescopic plate (2), as well as the lower ends of the telescopic plate (2) and the side plate (3), are all equipped with telescopic mechanisms (6) for adjusting the spacing, and the two telescopic mechanisms (6) are vertically distributed.
6. The adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The telescopic mechanism (6) includes a sliding frame (61) and a sliding plate (62). Both sliding frames (61) are fixedly connected to the lower end of the telescopic plate (2). One of the sliding plates (62) is fixedly connected to the lower end of the base (1), and the other sliding plate (62) is fixedly connected to the lower end of the side plate (3). One end of the sliding plate (62) is slidably inserted into the sliding frame (61).
7. The adjustable metacarpal fracture fixation device according to claim 6, characterized in that: An elastic plate (63) is installed at one end of the sliding frame (61). A lever (631) is fixedly connected to the lower end of the elastic plate (63). A sliding groove matching the lever (631) is opened at the lower end of the sliding frame (61). A locking block (632) is fixedly connected to both sides of the lever (631). Multiple locking slots matching the locking block (632) are opened on both sides of the sliding groove.