Bone Plate With Mixed Locking Holes For Anatomical Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bone plating systems for fracture stabilization lack versatility and accuracy in accommodating anatomical features and varying bone strengths, leading to potential deformities and inadequate healing.
Innovation Solution
A bone plate system with a proximal portion, shaft, and distal portion, featuring a combination of fixed angle and polyaxial locking holes, along with a tapered tip and dynamic compression slots, designed to engage bones with varying strengths and anatomical features, allowing for flexible screw placement and optimal stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional bone plating systems are used, then the system is simple and easy to manufacture, but the system lacks versatility in accommodating anatomical features and varying bone strengths
Solution Approach 1:
The bone plate is divided into distinct regions (proximal portion, shaft, distal portion) with different hole configurations. The shaft contains repeating patterns of holes at angled orientations, while the distal portion has holes arranged to accommodate anatomical features like the epicondylar ridge, allowing each segment to address specific anatomical requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The bone plate incorporates multiple types of holes (angled holes in shaft, holes in distal portion) that can accommodate various screw trajectories and orientations. This multi-functional design allows a single plate to address different bone types, fracture patterns, and anatomical variations, replacing the need for multiple specialized plates
2Measurement precision
If traditional bone plating systems are used, then the device is simple, but the accuracy in screw placement and alignment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The bone plate features pre-configured repeating patterns of holes in the shaft and specifically positioned holes in the distal portion. These pre-planned hole locations and orientations guide screw placement accuracy before the surgical procedure begins, eliminating the need for complex intraoperative measurements or adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The distal portion of the plate features an asymmetric design with the posterior side raised relative to the anterior side, and holes positioned to accommodate the epicondylar ridge. This asymmetric configuration provides precise anatomical alignment and accurate screw placement in the distal femur region
3Reliability
If traditional bone plating systems are used, then the system is straightforward to operate, but the system provides inadequate stability and allows screw backout
Solution Approach 1:
The bone plate incorporates dynamic compression slots in the shaft that allow for controlled movement and compression of bone fragments during healing. The repeating pattern of angled holes provides dynamic adjustment capabilities for screw placement, enhancing fixation stability while maintaining surgical simplicity
Data Source
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AI summary
Bone plates for engaging bone members are described herein. The bone plates can receive one or more screws to secure the bone plates to an underlying bone member. The one or more screws can be inserted into bone plate holes that can be considered locking or non-locking. The bone plates described herein can have particular combinations of locking and/or non-locking holes. The bone plates can include features that accommodate the underlying anatomy of different types of bone, such as the condylar region of a femur.