Dynamic Locking Bone Plate With Compression And Micromotion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fracture fixation devices, such as plates and screws, often fail in osteoporotic bones due to screw loosening, non-union, or excessive rigidity, leading to repeated surgeries and high healthcare costs, with a lack of customization options for optimal fracture healing.
Innovation Solution
A bone fixation system combining dynamic and compression functions, featuring a bone plate with eccentric screw placement and a locking mechanism that allows for both compression and micromotion, enabling customizable fixation and preservation of periosteal blood supply through a contoured design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If compression plates are used to fixate fractures, then the fracture can be held reduced by compression, but the device fails in osteoporotic bone from screw loosening leading to loss of reduction, refracture or non-union
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into two independent functional components: a locking mechanism that secures the screw to the plate preventing loosening, and a compression mechanism that applies force to the fracture site. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the locking plate and compression plate functions into a single integrated device. The locking mechanism provides secure attachment to prevent screw loosening, while the compression mechanism simultaneously applies corrective force to the fracture, combining previously separate solutions into one unified system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If locked plates are used to provide rigid fixation, then the screws are locked to the plate, but the plate is too rigid to allow micromotion which results in non-union or failure
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system that allows controlled micromotion. The compression mechanism enables the plate to apply force while accommodating small movements at the fracture site, promoting callus formation and union while maintaining overall stability through the locking mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid plates are used to provide either locked or non-locked screw options, then customization is possible, but the device complexity increases and adequate compression and locking cannot be provided in one screw
Solution Approach 1:
The single screw design incorporates both locking and compression functionalities. The screw simultaneously engages the locking mechanism to prevent loosening and the compression mechanism to apply force to the fracture, eliminating the need for separate locked and non-locked screw options while reducing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system comprising a dynamic locking bone plate and screw that provide a plate and screw complex for fracture fixation. The plate comprises a plurality of screw holes, each screw hole adapted to receive a screw. The screw threads allow for insertion into bone with compression of the plate to bone and the four male components on the screw head allow for the screws to be locked into place in the plate once they interact with the female components of the plate. The screw locking heads will come in two form, one plush fit to the locking plate and the other offset to allow some movement in the screw plate complex. On the under surface of the plate, the plate comprises a raised area or protrusion defining the bone to plate contact surface. The area between adjacent screw holes is adapted to allow for customisation by the surgeon intra-operatively for optimal fracture fixation. The screw head comprises a tapered shoulder to allow for compression at the fracture site if placed in an eccentric position.