Skull external fixation system

Abstract

An external fixation system comprising a halo device is described. The system includes a halo ring with horizontal and vertical holes, and a pin connector. The pin connector can include a first pin connector and a second pin connector. The first pin connector is configured to attach to the halo ring, and the second pin connector is configured to attach to the first pin connector. Using the two pin connectors, a pin can be angled towards an individual's skull, such that the point of attachment is perpendicular to the entry point of the skull. Alternately, the pin connector includes a third pin connector, which can adjust the height of the pin. The system also includes telescoping connector rods which attach from the vest to the halo ring. The telescoping rods allow for precise adjustment of the halo ring relative to the vest and the neck and back of the individual.

Description

SKULL EXTERNAL FIXATION SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This disclosure claims priority from United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 696,658 filed September 19, 2024, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a device and system for stabilizing the neck and spine of an individual during spinal recovery following trauma. This device can also be used to apply cranial-gravity traction to treat spinal deformities.BACKGROUND

[0003] A halo brace is an orthopedic device designed to prevent an individual's neck and spine from moving while their spine heals following an injury, surgery, or any other trauma. The brace provides support while the body heals the cervical vertebrae. The brace cannot be removed until the spine is fully healed.

[0004] The halo is a ring that surrounds the head of the individual and is attached via screws or pins that are secured into the skull of the individual. It has been shown that maximum structural load at the pin-bone interface is found when the pins are inserted perpendicular to the skull (see, for example, Copley et al., A Comparison of Various Angles of Halo Pin Insertion in an Immature Skull Model). Due to the traditional design of the halo, screws or pins are placed perpendicular to the skull in the forehead which can leave significant scarring in visible areas on the head. Due to variations in shape and size of skulls, it can be difficult to secure the pins exactly perpendicular to the skull.

[0005] A typical halo ring comprises horizontal openings in the ring, through which pins or screws can be placed into the individual's skull. Because the positions of the openings are fixed, there is a set angle and height at which the pin or screwcan enter and exit the opening. Alternatively, the pins may be slidable along the halo ring, but the rings are still locked in a single horizontal plane and cannot always connect exactly perpendicular to the individual's skull. Additionally, visible portions of the skull cannot be avoided. While there is the potential for halo rings to be customized for an individual's head, the process is costly and technically intensive. It is therefore desirable to have a customizable skull fixation system which allows for perpendicular connection to all points of the skull while allowing points of fixation in non-visible portions of the skull.SUMMARY

[0006] Some embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following aspects. In some examples, one or more of the following aspects may be provided as a kit.

[0007] In one aspect, a device for securing an individual's head is provided. The device comprises: a rigid body configured to extend horizontally around a majority of the individual's head; a plurality of holes penetrating substantially horizontally through the rigid body; a plurality of holes penetrating substantially vertically through the rigid body; a plurality of pin connectors, wherein each pin connector comprises an opening, and wherein each pin connector is securable in the rigid body; and a plurality of threaded pins securable to the plurality of pin connectors, wherein each pin connector is configured to secure one pin, wherein each pin is securable in the opening of each respective pin connector, and wherein each pin connector is configured to provide an adjustment to the respective pin secured in the opening of the pin connector.

[0008] In a further aspect, a system for securing an individual's head is provided. The system comprises: the device as described above, a vest comprising an anterior portion and a posterior portion, wherein the anterior portion and the posterior portion are secured around the individual; and a plurality of rods each having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of each rod is connected to either the anterior portion or the posterior portion of the vest, and wherein the distal end of each rod is connected to the rigid body.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show example embodiments of the present application, and in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a conventional halo ring, in which screws enter on a fixed horizontal plane;

[0011] FIG. 2 is a front view of an example conventional full halo device, complete with connector rods and a vest;

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an example halo ring, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example first pin connector which is securable to the example halo ring of FIG. 3, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example second pin connector which is securable to the first pin connector of FIG. 4, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example halo device comprising the example halo ring of FIG. 3, the example first pin connector of FIG. 4, and the example second pin connector of FIG. 5, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the example halo device of FIG. 6 secured to the head of an individual, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example third pin connector with one threaded opening, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example third pin connector with two threaded openings, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an example third pin connector with three threaded openings, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure; and

[0020] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an example telescoping connector rod, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0021] The drawings included herewith are for illustrating various examples of apparatuses and methods of the teaching of the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope of what is taught in any way.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments are shown. However, many different embodiments may be used, and thus the description should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete.

[0023] Throughout the following, specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in the art. However, well- known elements may not have been shown or described in detail. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.

[0024] Various apparatuses or processes will be described below to provide an example of each claimed invention. No example described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover processes or apparatuses that differ from those described below. The claimed inventions are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus or process described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It is possible that an apparatus or process described below is not an example of any claimed invention. Any invention disclosed in an apparatus or process described below that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and theapplicants, inventors, or owners do not intend to abandon, disclaim, or dedicate to the public any such invention by its disclosure in this document.

[0025] The terms "an embodiment," "embodiment," "embodiments," "the embodiment," "the embodiments," "one or more embodiments," "some embodiments," and "one embodiment" mean "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the present invention(s)," unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0026] The terms "including," "comprising" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless expressly specified otherwise. A listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms "a," "an" and "the" mean "one or more," unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0027] As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be "coupled", "connected", "attached", or "fastened" where the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate parts), so long as a link occurs. As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be "directly coupled", "directly connected", "directly attached", or "directly fastened" where the parts are connected in physical contact with each other. None of the terms "coupled", "connected", "attached", and "fastened" distinguish the manner in which two or more parts are joined together.

[0028] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the example embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the example embodiments described herein.

[0029] As used herein, the wording "and / or" is intended to represent an inclusive - or. That is, "X and / or Y" is intended to mean X or Y or both, for example. As a further example, "X, Y, and / or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

[0030] Some elements herein may be identified by a part number, which is composed of a base number followed by an alphabetical or subscript-numerical suffix (e.g., 300a, or 300i). Multiple elements herein may be identified by part numbers that share a base number in common and that differ by their suffixes (e.g., 300a, 300b, and 300c). All elements with a common base number may be referred to collectively or generically using the base number without a suffix (e.g., 300).

[0031] It should be noted that terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "generally" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree may also be construed as including a deviation of the modified term, such as by 1%, 2%, 5% or 10%, for example, if this deviation does not negate the meaning of the term it modifies. For example, the expressions "substantially perpendicular" and "substantially parallel" mean within 10% of perpendicular and parallel, respectively.

[0032] The following is a general description intended to provide a basis for understanding several of the features that are discussed herein. As discussed in detail subsequently, each of the features may be used alone, or in combination, in any embodiment such as the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0033] In various examples, the present disclosure describes a device for stabilizing the neck and spine of an individual using a modular and customizable halo device. The device incorporates both horizonal and vertical openings, as well as pin connectors configured to be removably coupled to the device via the horizontal and / or vertical openings. The pin connectors may provide an adjustment of a pin to be secured to the skull of an individual. An adjustment may refer to an adjustment of the angle of the pin relative to the halo ring (e.g., by a first and a second pin connector as disclosed herein), and / or may refer to an adjustment of the height of the pin relative to the halo ring (e.g., by one or more third pin connectors as disclosed herein). Adjustment of the angle and / or height of the pin ensures that the pins are attached to the skull perpendicular to the surface of the skull. The provided adjustments described herein may provide an advantage overconventional halo devices, in which the placement of pins is limited to the fixed location of openings on the halo ring. The system also includes a vest to be worn and securely fitted to the individual, and telescopic connector rods that attach the vest to the ring. The telescopic connector rods allow for fine adjustments and computer assisted fracture / dislocation reduction.

[0034] Referring first to FIG. 1, a conventional halo ring is illustrated. The conventional halo ring wraps around the majority of an individual's head, in either an elliptical or circular shape. The conventional halo ring comprises a plurality of through openings in the horizontal plane around the conventional halo ring.Although there are several openings, only some of them are usable for pins, as some of the openings are reserved for attachment to connector rods. The openings may be threaded, such that threaded pins can be secured and tightened in the openings. In order to make the attachment point of the pins as perpendicular to the skull as possible, the conventional halo ring is configured to attach to a more flat or straight area of the individuals head, such as the temple above each ear, and the forehead. As the pins are drilled into the skull, this can lead to significant scarring on highly visible areas of the head and face. Additionally, due to the pins being restricted to the horizontal plane, and the requirement for attachment to the connector rods, there are limited options for pin placement around the head, leading to potentially weaker attachments that can hold less load.

[0035] Referring now to FIG. 2, an example conventional halo system is illustrated. The system includes a conventional halo ring substantially similar to that described in FIG. 1, as well as four connector rods and a vest to be worn by an individual. As shown in FIG. 2, the four connector rods surround the individual's head, and are attached via the horizontal openings. The connector rods also rigidly attach to the vest, so that movement of the head relative to the spine is prevented. The connector rods may only allow for imprecise angle adjustment, and must be manually manipulated, which can lead to inaccurate measurements due to human error.

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 3, an example halo ring 100 of the present disclosure is illustrated. As exemplified, the halo ring 100 may be an open ringrather than a closed ring. The halo ring 100 disclosed herein may be of any arcuate shape, such as substantially circular or substantially elliptical to substantially surround an individual's skull. The halo ring 100 may have one or more horizontal openings 102 which may extend substantially linearly and substantially parallel to the horizontal plane when the halo ring 100 is secured around the head of an individual. In addition to the horizontal openings 102, the halo ring 100 may have one or more vertical openings 104 which may extend substantially linearly in the vertical direction when the halo ring 100 is secured around the head of an individual.

[0037] It should be understood that the terms "horizontal plane" and "vertical direction" are not intended to limit the present disclosure to a strictly mathematical meaning of a plane - that is, the openings 102 in the horizontal plane do not need to be strictly in the same plane, and similarly the openings 104 in the vertical direction do not need to be strictly in a direction that is orthogonal (or vertical) from the horizontal plane. Generally, the horizontal plane may refer to an approximate plane in which the halo ring 100 lies, while the vertical direction may refer to a direction that is substantially out-of-plane (e.g., at least 45 degrees) from the plane in which the halo ring 100 lies. The vertical openings 104 may be offset from the horizontal openings 102 such that the openings 102, 104 do not coincide with each other. This may increase structural stability and may further prevent attachment pins inserted into the horizontal openings 102 from interfering with connector pins inserted into the vertical openings 104, and vice versa.

[0038] By offsetting the openings 102, 104, the amount of potential attachment points is increased, allowing for a better fit of the halo ring 100 around the skull of the individual. Optionally, the horizontal openings 102 and / or the vertical openings 104 may be partially or fully threaded. The openings 102, 104 may partially or completely penetrate through the halo ring 100. It should be understood that the openings 102, 104 do not necessarily need to be identical in diameter, type, or depth. For example, in an embodiment, the horizontal openings 102 may be fully threaded and may completely penetrate through the halo ring 100, and the vertical openings 104 may be partially threaded and may partially penetrate through the halo ring 100. Similarly, in another example, one or more ofthe horizontal openings 102 may completely penetrate through the halo ring 100, and the remainder of the horizontal openings 102 may only partially penetrate through the halo ring 100.

[0039] The halo ring 100 may be made from carbon fiber, a non-ferrous metal, rigid plastic, or any other suitable material, such as a material which is rigid, lightweight, and permits taking of appropriate medical imaging (e.g. radiographs, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, etc.). The dimensions, proportions, or overall shape of the halo ring 100 may also be customized based on the shape and size of the individual's skull. Different sizes or shapes of the halo ring may have fewer, more, or the same number of horizontal openings 102 and / or vertical openings 104. In an embodiment, the horizontal openings 102 of the halo ring 100 may be configured to accept a drill sleeve or guide to assist in drilling holes into the individual's skull and assist with accurately threading pins into the horizontal openings 102.

[0040] FIG. 4 is an example first pin connector 200 in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. The exemplary first pin connector 200 comprises a shaft 202 which may be configured to be inserted into a vertical opening 104 of the halo ring 100. Optionally, the shaft 202 may be threaded. In embodiments where one or more of the vertical openings 104 are threaded and the shaft 202 is threaded, the first pin connector 200 may be removably secured into a vertical opening 104 of the halo ring 100 by threading the shaft 202 into the vertical opening 104. Alternatively or in addition, the first pin connector 200 may be removably secured into a vertical opening 104 of the halo ring 100 using one or more mechanical fasteners, such as a nut and one or more washers. Other mechanisms for securing the first pin connector 200 in a vertical opening 104 of the halo ring 100 may be used, in which the shaft 202 may or may not be threaded.

[0041] As exemplified, a protrusion 208 extends from the distal end of the shaft 210 of the first pin connector 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 208 may have a base 212 fixedly coupled or integrally formed with the distal end of the shaft 210, and an elevation 214 extending from the base 212. The elevation comprises one or more geared teeth 206 that are concentric about anopening 204. Optionally, the opening 204 in the first pin connector 200 may be threaded. Although illustrated as penetrating completely through the elevation 214, the opening 204 may only partially penetrate through the elevation 214. The size, proportion, and overall shape of the first pin connector 200 may be adjusted relative to the size or proportion of the halo ring 100. For example, the vertical thickness of the base 212 may be increased or decreased. Alternatively or in addition, the horizontal thickness and / or vertical height of the elevation 214 may be increased or decreased. Any part of the first pin connector 200, including the shaft 202, the base 208, and the teeth 206 may be made of the same or a different material than the halo ring 100. It should be understood that the embodiment described herein is exemplary, and that alternate structural configurations of the first pin connector 200 may be possible without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.

[0042] Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary second pin connector 300 in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. The second pin connector 300 may comprise a block 308 which may similarly comprise one or more geared teeth 304 concentric about a first opening 302. The first opening 302 may extend substantially linearly parallel to the horizontal plane in a first direction. The first opening of the second pin connector 302 may be substantially similar in diameter as the opening 204 in the first pin connector 200. The second pin connector 300 further comprises a second opening 306, which may extend substantially linearly parallel to the horizontal plane in a second direction. The second direction may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The first opening 302 and / or the second opening 306 may optionally be threaded, and either opening 302, 306 may partially or fully penetrate through the block 308. The distance between the center of the first opening 302 and the second opening 306 may vary based on the structural configuration of the second pin connector 300. The first opening 302 and the second opening 302 may be the same or may be different diameters. The second pin connector 300 may be made of the same or a different material than the halo ring 100 and / or the first pin connector 200. In an embodiment, the second opening of the second pin connector 306 may be configured to accept a drill sleeveor guide, to assist in drilling holes into the individual's skull and assist with accurately threading pins into the second opening 306.

[0043] FIG. 6 exemplifies a device 400 comprising the halo ring 100, a first pin connector 200, and a second pin connector 300 secured thereto in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the first pin connector 200 is removably secured into a vertical opening 104 of the halo ring 100 by a nut 404, which may be, e.g., threaded onto the shaft 202. The second pin connector 300 is coupled to the first pin connector 100 such that the opening 204 of the first pin connector 200 is coincident with the first opening 302 of the second pin connector 300. When the openings 204, 302 are coincident, a fastening member such as a bolt 402 may be inserted into both of openings 204, 302 such that translational movement of the second pin connector 300 relative to the first pin connector 200 is inhibited. In embodiments where one or both of the openings 204, 302 are threaded, the bolt 402 may be secured into the openings 204, 302 via the respective thread(s). Alternatively, the bolt 402 may be secured by, e.g., a nut 404.

[0044] The geared teeth 206, 304 of each connector 200, 300 interlock and engage when the connectors 200, 300 are secured to each other, such that rotational movement of the second pin connector 300 relative to the first pin connector 200 is inhibited. When the connectors 200, 300 are partially unsecured from each other via, e.g., loosening, but not removing, the bolt 402, the geared teeth 206, 304 may become disengaged and permit rotational movement of the second pin connector 300 relative to the first pin connector 200. Therefore, the rotational position of the second pin connector 300 relative to the first pin connector 200 may be adjusted by loosening the bolt 402, and may be fixed by tightening the bolt 402. The first pin connector 200 and the second pin connector 300 may have the same or a different number of geared teeth 206, 304. The number of teeth 206, 304 may be reliant on the size of the connector 200, 300 and / or based on the specific use of the device 400. For example, increasing the number of geared teeth 206, 304 may allow for a greater number of potential connection angles between the first pin connector 200 and the second pinconnector 300, but may also increase the wear and reduce the stability of the teeth 206, 304.

[0045] As exemplified in FIG. 7, a pin 502 may be threaded through the second opening of the second pin connector 306, and can contact the skull of the individual 504 perpendicular to the surface of the skull 504. The adjustable angled connection between the first pin connector 200 and the second pin connector 300, enabled by the interlocking connection of the geared teeth 206, 304 allow the pin 502 to be drilled into the skull 504 closer to, e.g., the top of the skull 504, where scarring may be less visible. As illustrated, the pin 502 may be secured in place with a mechanical fastening member such as a nut 404 once the pin 502 is sufficiently drilled into the skull 504. FIG. 6 further illustrates that the horizontal openings 102 in the halo ring 100 may alternatively be used for a pin 502, should this provide a more perpendicular connection between the pin 502 and the surface of the skull 504. Although a certain number of pins 502 and pin connectors 200, 300 have been illustrated in FIG. 6, a person of skill in the art understands that any number of pins 502 and pin connectors 200, 300 may be utilized so as to adequately stabilize the neck and spine.

[0046] FIGS. 8-10 illustrate exemplary embodiments of a third pin connector 600 which may be removably secured to the halo ring 100 to adjust the height of a pin 502. In any embodiment, the third pin connector 600 may be formed of anodized aluminum, titanium, a carbon fibre composite, and / or stainless steel. Although illustrated in FIGS. 8-10 as a cube or cuboid shape, the third pin connector 600 may be of any shape and size.

[0047] Referring first to FIG. 8, a third pin connector 600 may comprise a block 606 fixedly coupled to or integrally formed with a shaft 602. The block 606 may comprise an opening 604 on a first side face of the block 606, which may extend substantially linearly in the horizontal plane. Optionally, the opening 604 may be partially or fully threaded, and may partially or completely penetrate through the block 606. The shaft 602 may also optionally be partially or fully threaded. Similar to the first pin connector 200 described previously, the shaft 602 may be removably secured in a vertical opening 104 of the halo ring 100. The shaft602 may be secured in a vertical opening 104 via a thread and / or a mechanical fastener such as a nut. The opening 604 may be configured to receive a pin 502, and the pin 502 may be removably securable in the opening 604 via, e.g., a thread or a mechanical fastener such as a nut. When the halo ring 100 is secured around the skull 504 of an individual, a pin 502 may be removably secured in the opening 604 in order to contact the skull 504 of the individual at a different height than the horizontal openings 102 disposed in the halo ring 100. In addition, the height of the pin 502 may be further defined by adjusting the amount of the shaft 602 that is secured within the vertical opening 104.

[0048] Alternatively, the third pin connector 600 may have more than one opening 604 on the first side face of the block 606, as exemplified in FIG. 9. As illustrated, similar to the embodiment exemplified in FIG. 8, the third pin connector 600 may comprise a block 606 fixedly coupled to or integrally formed with a shaft 602. The block 606 according to FIG. 9 may have multiple openings 604a, 604b which may both extend substantially linearly parallel to the horizontal plane. Openings 604a, 604b may be referred to generally as opening(s) 604. Optionally, the opening(s) 604 may extend substantially parallel to each other, and may be substantially vertically aligned. Similar to the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 8, the shaft 602 and / or opening(s) 604 may be partially or fully threaded, and the opening(s) 604 may partially or completely penetrate through the block 606. When the shaft 602 is removably secured in a vertical opening 104, the opening(s) 604 may provide alternate height options for insertion of the pin 502, without requiring adjustment of the third pin connector 600 within the vertical opening 104.

[0049] FIG. 10 exemplifies a third pin connector 600 substantially similar to the third pin connector 600 previously described with reference to FIG. 9, further comprising a vertical opening 610 extending through the center of the block 606 substantially orthogonal to the openings 604. Optionally, the vertical opening 610 may be concentric with the shaft 602. Further, the vertical opening 610 may be configured to receive a shaft 602 of a second cuboid pin connector 600 (e.g., the vertical opening 610 may have a substantially similar diameter to the shaft 602). Similar to the openings 604, the vertical opening 610 may optionally be partially orfully threaded, and may partially or completely penetrate through block 606. As illustrated, the vertical opening 610 may have a threaded inlet and a clearance depth throughout the remainder of the opening 610, and the opening(s) 604 may be fully threaded. Alternatively, the vertical opening 610 may be fully threaded, and the opening(s) 604 may have a threaded inlet and a clearance depth throughout the remainder of the opening 604. Further alternatively, both the vertical opening 610 and the opening(s) 604 may be fully threaded.

[0050] In embodiments where the vertical opening 610 is configured to receive the shaft 602 of another third pin connector 600, two (or more) third pin connectors 600 may be removably secured to each other. For example, the shaft 602 of one third pin connector 600 may be removably secured via, e.g., a thread in the vertical opening 610 of another third pin connector 600, thereby providing further alternate height options for insertion of the pin 502, without requiring adjustment of the third pin connector 600 within the vertical opening 104. In this embodiment, the shaft 602 of a third pin connector 600 may have one or more openings which may substantially align with the openings 604 of the third pin connector 600 in which it is removably secured within, allowing a pin 502 to be inserted through the openings 604 and the shaft 602 of the respective third pin connectors 600. Alternatively or in addition, the shaft 202 of a first pin connector 200 may be removably secured in the vertical opening 610 of a third pin connector 600, allowing the height and angle of the pin 502 to be easily adjusted. It should be noted that, in examples where two or more pin connectors 200, 600 are removably secured to each other in this manner, the pin connectors 200, 600 need not be identical or have similar configurations.

[0051] Optionally, the third pin connector 600 may include one or more openings 604 on a second side face of the block 606, in addition to the openings 604a, 604b on the first side face of the block 606 and the vertical opening 610. In this embodiment, the openings 604 on the second side face of the block 606 may extend substantially linearly and substantially horizontally, and may be substantially orthogonal to the openings 604 on the first side face of the block 606 and the vertical opening 610. The openings 604 on the second side face of the block 606 may optionally be partially or fully threaded, and may partially orcompletely penetrate through block 606. Optionally, each of the openings 604 on the second side face of the block 606 may be substantially horizontally aligned with a respective one of the openings 604 on the first side face of the block 606. Alternatively, the openings 604 on the second side face of the block 606 may be horizontally offset from the openings 604 on the first side face of the block 606, and / or may differ in quantity from the openings 604 on the first side face of the block 606. For example, a third pin connector 600 with multiple openings 604 on a first side face of the block 606 may only include one opening 604 on a second side face of the block 606.

[0052] Any embodiment of the third pin connector 600 as described herein may further comprise one or more protrusions. The protrusions may extend from the end of the block 606 coupled to or integrally formed with the shaft 602, and may extend towards the shaft 602. Each side face of the block 606 may comprise one or more protrusions.

[0053] Although the embodiments illustrated are limited to one or two vertically aligned openings 604 on a side face of the block 606, it should be understood that any a third pin connector 600 may comprise any number of openings 604 on a side face of the block 606. Additionally, although only one column of vertically aligned openings 604 are illustrated on a side face of the block 606, it should be understood that a third pin connector 600 may comprise any number of openings 604 in any configuration or pattern.

[0054] It should be further understood that although embodiments comprising the first and second pin connectors 200, 300 and embodiments comprising a third pin connector 600 have been described separately, a device 400 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may comprise any number or combination of first pin connectors 200, second pin connectors 300, and third pin connectors 600. The device 400 may further include one or more embodiments of any pin connectors previously described.

[0055] Each embodiment of the pin connectors 200, 300, and 600 may provide for a pin 502 to be adjusted to a desirable location, such as, e.g., a non- visible portion of an individual's skull 504 and / or a portion of an individual's skull504 which provides a better contact point for the pin 502. By allowing for angular adjustments (as provided by a first pin connector 200 and a second pin connector 300) and height adjustments (as provided by a third pin connector 600), the halo ring 100 may be more safely and accurately fixed to the skull 504.

[0056] The disclosed device 400, including the disclosed halo ring 100, the first pin connector 200, the second pin connector 300, and / or third pin connector 600 may be used with a rod and vest as found in conventional skull fixation systems. In some examples, the disclosed device 400 may be used in a skull fixation system that instead uses a telescoping connecting rod as disclosed herein.

[0057] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary telescoping connecting rod 700 in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. The proximal end 702 of the telescoping rod 700 may be configured to be removably coupled to a vest worn by the individual, and the distal end 704 may be configured to be removably coupled to the halo ring 100. In an example, the distal end 704 may be removably coupled to the halo ring via a screw disposed through an opening 708 in the distal end 704 and removably secured in a horizontal opening 102 of the halo ring 100. The proximal end 702 may be removably coupled to the vest worn by the individual via, e.g., a screw disposed through an opening 706 in the proximal end 702 and removably secured in an opening in the vest. The openings 706, 708 in the proximal end 702 and distal end 704 of the telescoping rod 700 respectively and / or the openings in the vest worn by the individual may be threaded. Alternatively or in addition, a screw disposed through the opening 706 or 708 may be secured with a nut. Although not explicitly described, it should be understood that other means of connecting the telescoping rod 700 to the halo ring 100 and / or vest worn by the individual may be possible.

[0058] The telescoping rod 700 may be modifiable in length, for example through an adjustable screw 710, which may be rotatable to increase or decrease the length of the telescoping rod 700. Optionally, the length of the telescoping rod 700 may be adjusted to a length calculated by, e.g., a software program. The telescoping rod 700 may further comprise a locking sleeve 712 which may be configured to inhibit adjustments to the length of the telescoping rod 700.Optionally, the locking sleeve 712 may prevent adjustments to the length of the telescoping rod 700 by inhibiting rotation of the adjustable screw 710. In some examples, the design of the telescoping rod 700 may be substantially similar to the design of the Smith & Nephew Taylor Spatial Frame™ telescoping rods. The telescoping rod 700 may be adapted from other telescoping rods that were designed for other uses, such as for use in circular external fixators.

[0059] Adjustment of the length of the telescoping rod 700 using an adjustable screw 710 and / or a locking sleeve 712 as described above may provide for fine adjustments to the length of the telescoping rod 700. Use of the telescoping rod 700 as described in combination with the halo ring 100 previously described may allow the halo device 400 to be more accurately and safely secured to the skull 504 of an individual. In an embodiment, the telescoping rods may be manually adjusted based on software outputs.

[0060] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the subject matter of the claims. The described example embodiments are to be considered in all respects as being only illustrative and not restrictive. Selected features from one or more of the above-described embodiments may be combined to create alternative embodiments not explicitly described, features suitable for such combinations being understood within the scope of this disclosure.

[0061] Although the systems, devices and processes disclosed and shown herein may comprise a specific number of elements / components, the systems, devices and assemblies could be modified to include additional or fewer of such elements / components. For example, although any of the elements / components disclosed may be referenced as being singular, the embodiments disclosed herein could be modified to include a plurality of such elements / components. The subject matter described herein intends to cover and embrace all suitable changes in technology.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 20 February 2026 (20.02.2026)

1. A device for securing an individual’s head comprising: a rigid body configured to extend along a horizontal plane around a majority of the individual’s head; a plurality of holes penetrating substantially horizontally through the rigid body; a plurality of holes penetrating substantially vertically through the rigid body; a plurality of pin connectors, wherein each pin connector comprises an opening, and wherein each pin connector is securable in the rigid body; and a plurality of threaded pins securable to the plurality of pin connectors, wherein each pin connector is configured to secure one pin, wherein each pin is securable in the opening of each respective pin connector, wherein each pin connector is configured to provide an angular adjustment out of the horizontal plane to the respective pin secured in the opening of the pin connector, and wherein each pin connector is further configured to provide a height adjustment, in a direction transverse to the horizontal plane, to the respective pin secured in the opening of the pin connector.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein at least one pin connector of the plurality of pin connectors further comprises: a first pin connector, the first pin connector being securable in a corresponding one of the plurality of vertically penetrating holes of the rigid body; and a second pin connector securable to the first pin connectors wherein the first pin connector is connectable to the second pin connector, wherein the first pin connector and the respective second pin connector cooperate to provide the angular adjustment to the corresponding pin.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the first pin connector has a threaded shaft securable into one of the vertically penetrating holes.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the first pin connector has a hole perpendicular and distal to the respective threaded shaft.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the first pin connector has a first set of geared teeth around the respective hole.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the second pin connector has a threaded bottom hole and a threaded top hole, wherein the bottom hole is perpendicular to the top hole.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the second pin connector has a second set of geared teeth around the respective threaded bottom hole.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the first set of geared teeth and the second set of geared teeth are interlockable to restrict rotational movement of the first pin connector and the corresponding second pin connector relative to each other when the first set of geared teeth and the second set of geared teeth are coupled with each other.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein first pin connector and the corresponding second pin connector are securable via a screw disposed through the hole of the first pin connector and the bottom hole of each of the corresponding second pin connector.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the pin is threaded through the top hole of the corresponding second pin connector, such that rotation of the pin affects the displacement of the pin in a direction towards or away from the individual’s head.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of pin connectors further is a third pin connector, wherein the third pin connector is configured to provide the height adjustment to the corresponding pin.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the horizontally penetrating holes are threaded.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the pin can alternatively be threaded directly in one of the holes penetrating horizontally through the rigid body and restricted from movement via a nut.

14. The device of claim 2, wherein the first pin connector has a first set of geared teeth and the second pin connector has a second set of geared teeth, wherein the first and second set of geared teeth are configured to interlock with each other when the first pin connector and the second pin connector are secured to each other at an angle, the first and second set of geared teeth configured to prevent change to the angle.

15. A system for securing an individual’s head comprising: the device of any one of claims 1 to 14; a vest comprising an anterior portion and a posterior portion, wherein the anterior portion and the posterior portion are secured around the individual; and a plurality of rods each having a proximal end and a distal end; wherein the proximal end of each rod is connected to either the anterior portion or the posterior portion of the vest; and wherein the distal end of each rod is connected to the rigid body.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the distal end of each rod is connected to the rigid body via a screw disposed through one of the horizontally penetrating holes.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the proximal end of each rod is connected to the vest via a screw disposed through a hole in the vest.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein each rod is telescoping such that the length of the rod can increase and decrease.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein the length of each rod is modifiable by an adjustable screw, wherein each rod comprises a locking sleeve, and the length of each rod is lockable by the respective locking sleeve.

20. A connector device for providing an adjustment of a skull external fixation device, the connector device comprising: a first pin connector having a first main body and a shaft extending axially from the first main body, the first main body having a first opening extending in a direction transverse to an axial direction of the shaft, the first opening being at least partially surrounded by a first set of geared teeth; and a second pin connector having a second main body having a second opening extending through the second main body in a first direction, and a third opening axially spaced from the second opening extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second opening being at least partially surrounded by a second set of geared teeth and the third opening being threaded along at least a partial depth of the third opening; wherein, in a first position, the first pin connector and the second pin connector are positioned with the first set of geared teeth and the second set of geared teeth spaced apart such that the secondpin connector is rotatable with respect to the first pin connector, and wherein, in a second position, the first pin connector and the second pin connector are positioned with the first set of geared teeth and the second set of geared teeth coincident such that the first set of geared teeth are interlockably securable with the second set of geared teeth to inhibit rotational movement of the second pin connector relative to the first pin connector.

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