Endosseous Screw Snap-Connection for Orthopedic Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current internal fixation systems in orthopedic surgery require complex and time-consuming procedures for inserting and stabilizing endosseous screws into nails or plates, and for their subsequent removal, due to the elaborate connection systems needed to manage torsional and bending stresses.
Innovation Solution
An endosseous screw assembly featuring a cannulated screw rod with a self-drill bit and a connection sleeve that uses a snap-connection mechanism with a flexible collar and clutch claws for secure attachment and easy detachment, allowing for simplified insertion and removal with minimal instrumentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If complex connection systems are used to manage torsional and bending stresses, then the stability and strength of the screw-plate/nail connection is improved, but the device complexity and surgical time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection sleeve integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the snap-connection mechanism for rapid attachment, incorporates the axial clamp for friction-based stress management, and enables controlled sliding for screwing operations. This merging eliminates the need for separate complex connection systems while maintaining stability under torsional and bending stresses.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system that adapts to operational requirements. The axial clamp provides friction-based engagement during loading, while the controlled sliding capability allows the rod to move axially during screwing and removal. This dynamic behavior maintains connection stability while simplifying the overall system.
2Reliability
If elaborate connection systems are used to ensure stable connection, then the strength and reliability of the fixation is improved, but the ease of operation and surgical time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-connection mechanism is pre-configured in the connection sleeve, allowing for rapid one-step engagement of the rod with the plate or nail. The axial clamp is pre-positioned to automatically engage and provide friction-based connection. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for multiple sequential screwing operations, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial clamp automatically engages with the rod through friction-based connection when the rod is inserted, providing self-securing without requiring additional fastening operations. The snap-connection mechanism similarly self-activates upon insertion, allowing the system to secure itself reliably without complex manual intervention.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional screwing operations are used for insertion and removal, then the stability of connection is maintained, but the productivity and surgical time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The axial clamp is pre-configured with friction-based engagement surfaces that automatically engage when the rod is inserted, eliminating the need for separate screwing operations to secure the connection. The snap-connection mechanism is pre-positioned to provide immediate stable connection upon insertion, significantly improving surgical efficiency while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion and securing operations are merged into a single snap-connection action, rather than requiring separate screwing steps. The axial clamp and snap-connection mechanism work together in one integrated operation to provide both stability and rapid insertion, improving productivity without compromising connection stability.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple specific instruments are used for screw insertion and connection, then the precision of connection is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connection sleeve serves multiple functions with a single instrument interface: it provides the snap-connection mechanism for precise engagement, incorporates the axial clamp for friction-based positioning, and enables controlled sliding for accurate screwing operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specific instruments while maintaining connection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of multiple separate instruments (connection establishment, positioning, and securing) are merged into the single connection sleeve structure. The snap-connection and axial clamp mechanisms are integrated, allowing one instrument to perform what previously required multiple specialized tools, reducing instrumentation complexity while preserving precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An endosseous screw assembly (100) for an internal fixation system (SC; SP), whose connection to the rest of the system is unusually easy for the surgeon, comprising: a longitudinally extending rod (1) equipped with at least one threaded proximal portion (2); a connection sleeve (3), within which a portion of the rod (1) is slidingly guided, said connection sleeve (3) being arranged to be inserted into a connection hole of an internal fixation member by snap-connecting within said connection hole up to reach a locking position; said rod (1) and said connection sleeve (3) comprising such mutual engagement means so as to form an axial constraint to the sliding of the rod (1) into the connection sleeve (3), so as to define, when the threaded proximal portion (2) advances into a bone site of the patient, a dragging of the connection sleeve (3) into the connection hole up to reach the locking position.