External K-Wire Clamp for Non-Parallel Fracture Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixation clamps are unable to integrate both threaded half-pins and multiple K-wires at non-parallel angles into the same external fixation system or construct, limiting their flexibility and requiring additional surgical procedures for permanent fixation solutions.
Innovation Solution
An external fixation K-wire clamp with an elongated channel that can receive and secure K-wires at various angles and orientations, allowing for non-parallel placement without predefined grooves, and includes mechanisms for coupling to a spanning rod for optimal positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing external fixation clamps use predefined grooves for receiving K-wires, then the clamp structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the clamp cannot accommodate K-wires at various angles and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into multiple independent K-wire receiving channels, each capable of accommodating a single K-wire. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific function while the overall clamp structure can accommodate multiple K-wires at different angles and orientations simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design transitions from a two-dimensional planar groove system to a three-dimensional multi-channel structure. Each channel is oriented at different angles in three-dimensional space, enabling the clamp to receive K-wires from multiple directions and orientations, thereby significantly increasing adaptability.
2Productivity
If existing clamps require multiple separate clamps for threaded half-pins and K-wires, then each clamp can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system requires additional surgical procedures and time
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp integrates multiple functional elements into a single device: threaded half-pin receiving channels, multiple K-wire receiving channels, and a unified clamping mechanism. This merging allows all components to be secured simultaneously in one surgical procedure, eliminating the need for multiple separate clamps and additional surgical steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is designed as a universal device that can accommodate both threaded half-pins and K-wires of various orientations within the same construct. The multi-functional design allows a single clamp to perform the work of multiple specialized clamps, streamlining the surgical process.
3Loss of time
If existing external fixation systems use multiple separate components for different fixation elements, then each component can be optimized independently, but the system requires more surgical time and additional procedures for permanent fixation
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is pre-configured with multiple receiving channels and a unified clamping mechanism that can accommodate all fixation elements (threaded half-pins and K-wires) in their final positions. This preliminary preparation allows all components to be secured simultaneously during the initial surgical procedure, eliminating the need for additional surgical time and procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An external fixation K-wire clamp including an elongated channel arranged and configured to receive a K-wire. In some examples, the elongated channel is devoid of any predefined grooves so that a K-wire can be positioned anywhere along the length of the elongated channel and/or in various orientations. In addition, and/or alternatively, an exemplary method of use for treating a distal radius fracture is disclosed. The method enabling earlier hand/wrist therapeutics.