Bone Fixation Apparatus with V-Shaped Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bone fixation devices face challenges in aligning and securing small or displaced bone pieces due to limited capability in accommodating such fragments, making it difficult to properly fix fractured bones.
Innovation Solution
A bone fixation apparatus comprising an extramedullary component, an intramedullary component, and a fastener with a V-shaped opening in the extramedullary component, allowing for precise alignment and secure attachment of bone pieces through the interconnection of these components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional bone fixation device with limited adjustment capability is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to align and secure small or displaced bone pieces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The intramedullary component is designed with movable adjustment mechanisms that allow dynamic repositioning relative to the extramedullary component. The fastener system enables lateral and longitudinal adjustments to accommodate small or displaced bone pieces, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that can adapt to various fracture configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device is divided into separate extramedullary and intramedullary components that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while providing flexibility in aligning bone fragments of various sizes and positions
2Ease of operation
If the intramedullary component is fixed rigidly to the extramedullary component, then the device structure is simple and stable, but lateral and longitudinal adjustments cannot be made
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between intramedullary and extramedullary components is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than rigidly fixed. The fastener system allows surgeons to perform lateral and longitudinal adjustments during surgery to achieve optimal alignment, then secures the components in the desired position
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener acts as an intermediary element between the intramedullary and extramedullary components, enabling controlled movement and adjustment. This intermediary mechanism provides the necessary flexibility for alignment while maintaining structural integrity once positioned
Data Source
AI summary
A bone fixation apparatus comprises an extramedullary component, an intramedullary component, and a fastener configured and dimensioned to interconnect the extramedullary component and the intramedullary component. The fastener has a head portion and a shank portion. The head portion is configured and dimensioned to be received in the extramedullary component. The shank portion is configured and dimensioned to be received in the intramedullary component. The fastener has a first longitudinal axis extending through both the head portion and the shank portion. The extramedullary component has a second longitudinal axis. The extramedullary component also includes an elongated surface defining an opening through which the shank portion of the fastener passes when the shank portion is received in the intramedullary component. The opening has a V shape. The V shape is oriented transverse to the first longitudinal axis and to the second longitudinal axis.