Fibular Intramedullary Nail With Variable Threaded Distal Flex
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intramedullary nails for fibula fractures lack enhanced fixation and flexibility to accommodate the curvature of the fibular cavity, leading to potential instability during installation and repair.
Innovation Solution
An intramedullary nail with a distal portion featuring a helical thread having a non-uniform minor diameter, combined with a placement jig that aligns securement screws for secure fixation, allowing flexibility and improved stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a uniform threaded intramedullary nail is used for fibula fixation, then the nail provides structural support and securement, but it lacks flexibility to accommodate the natural curvature of the fibular cavity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a non-uniform minor diameter region in the distal portion of the nail, where the minor diameter varies along the length to provide flexibility in specific zones while maintaining strength in other areas. This allows different parts of the nail to have different mechanical properties - the uniform threaded proximal portion provides securement strength while the non-uniform distal portion provides flexibility to accommodate curvature.
Solution Approach 2:
The nail is segmented into distinct functional zones: a proximal portion with uniform threading for securement, and a distal portion with non-uniform minor diameter for flexibility. This segmentation allows each zone to independently perform its specific function - the proximal zone provides anchorage while the distal zone accommodates anatomical curvature.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the minor diameter of the helical thread is reduced to increase flexibility, then the nail can better accommodate fibular curvature, but the fixation strength and stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The non-uniform minor diameter region is strategically located in the distal portion where flexibility is needed to accommodate curvature, while the proximal portion maintains a larger, uniform minor diameter for secure fixation. This spatial differentiation of material properties allows the nail to simultaneously achieve both flexibility and reliability in appropriate locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-uniform minor diameter creates a dynamic structure that can adapt to the natural curvature of the fibula while maintaining structural integrity. The varying diameter allows the nail to flex and conform to anatomical variations without compromising the overall fixation stability provided by the threaded structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an intramedullary nail useful in the repair of fibular fractures. The nail has a proximal portion with a threaded outer surface and a threaded distal portion. The distal portion may have a tapered or partially tapered configuration or a staggered configuration. The nail may be used with a placement jig that has holes aligned with transverse holes in the nail to enable placement of securement screws and other devices. An associated kit and method are also disclosed.