Adjustable Orthopedic Fixation System Using Segmented Struts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic fixation systems that provide six degrees of freedom often compromise system strength or require complex configurations, making them challenging to adjust and maintain effectively for varied surgical needs.
Innovation Solution
The use of a plurality of rigid struts with moveable attachment and slidable connecting mechanisms that allow for six degrees of freedom between base members, such as rings affixed to bones, utilizing tracks and carriages for adjustable movement and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If threaded or telescopic connection rods are used to connect opposite rings, then longitudinal adjustment is enabled, but system strength and structural simplicity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple rigid struts with moveable attachment mechanisms at each end, allowing independent adjustment of each strut while maintaining overall structural integrity. This segmentation enables longitudinal adjustment without compromising system strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection rods are designed with moveable attachment mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment of strut lengths and angles. The struts can be lengthened or shortened as necessary, and the attachment mechanisms enable manipulation of bone segments in 6 axes to correct deformities while maintaining system strength.
2Ease of operation
If uni-planar or multi-planar angular hinges are used to connect rings, then angular adjustment is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid struts with moveable attachment mechanisms serve multiple functions: they provide angular adjustment, maintain structural strength, and enable six degrees of freedom for bone segment manipulation. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity compared to specialized angular hinges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables adjustment of multiple parameters including strut lengths, angles, and positions through the moveable attachment mechanisms. This allows manipulation of bone segments in 6 axes (lengthening/shortening, external/internal rotation, anterior/posterior horizontal translation, medial/lateral horizontal translation, anterior/posterior angular translation, and medial/lateral angular translation) to correct linear, angular and rotational deformities simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more struts are added to increase range of movement, then adaptability improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable attachment mechanisms at each strut end provide dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the system to adapt to various surgical needs without requiring excessive numbers of struts. The mechanisms enable six degrees of freedom with a manageable number of struts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves adaptability through parameter changes in strut lengths and angles rather than through increasing the number of struts. The moveable attachment mechanisms allow adjustment of multiple parameters including strut lengths, angles, and positions, providing six degrees of freedom for bone segment manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic fixation system having two rings or other base/frame elements separated by a plurality of struts. The struts are attached to the rings by a combination of a attachment mechanism having at least two degrees of movement each, and at least one connecting mechanism. The connecting mechanisms may be moveably or non-moveably connected to one or more tracks located on either or both rings of base elements. A combination of these elements provides a fixation device that allows for six degrees of freedom of movement between the rings or other base elements.