Modular External Fixator With Sizing Inserts for Bone Angle Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixators require multiple sizes to accommodate different patient anatomies, leading to inventory management challenges and inefficiencies, and lack the ability to confirm complete osteotomy and measure angulation accurately during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A modular, adjustable external fixator with sizing inserts for the head and shaft elements, allowing customizable assembly to fit various patient sizes, and an angle measurement tool for precise angulation correction, ensuring complete osteotomy verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed-size external fixators are maintained in inventory to accommodate different patient anatomies, then all patient sizes can be served, but inventory management complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixator components are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection mechanisms that allow the same basic components to serve multiple patient sizes and anatomical variations. The head element, shaft element, and arm element can be combined in various configurations to accommodate different correction angles and patient geometries, reducing the need for specialized fixators for each patient type.
2Measurement precision
If traditional external fixators are used without measurement tools, then the procedure is simpler, but accurate angulation measurement and osteotomy verification cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement functionality is integrated directly into the fixator components themselves. The head element and shaft element incorporate angular measurement scales and reference markings that allow surgeons to measure correction angles and verify osteotomy completion without requiring separate external measurement devices. This integration reduces the number of separate tools needed while providing precise measurement capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable external fixator and fixator kit for angle correction on a bone comprising a head element, arm, shaft element, and adjustable distraction element. Sizing inserts of different discrete sizes are provided and are installable between ends of the head element and ends of the arm. When installed, the fixator can fit patients of any size. The sizing inserts can be blocks or rails secured by threaded fasteners. The fixator and kit may also comprise a wrench releasably secured to the shaft element can be used to adjust a length of the distraction element. The fixator and kit may also comprise an angle measurement tool to measure angle of distraction.