Multi-Plate Long Bone Fixation with Transverse Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bone plate fixation methods for long bone fractures are inadequate in withstanding torsional forces, allowing movement of the fracture under such loading, despite being effective for compressive and tensile forces.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising multiple bone plates affixed to the cortical surface of a long bone, with transverse members interposed between the plates to provide longitudinal and torsional stability, using screw holes and attachment screws for secure fixation, and adjustable or pivotable transverse members to accommodate varying bone shapes and alignments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a single bone plate is affixed to the long bone, then compressive and tensile forces along the longitudinal length are adequately withstood, but torsional forces are not adequately withstood, allowing movement of the bone fracture

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance to compressive and tensile forcesVSAvoidprevention of fracture movement under torsional forces

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The single bone plate is divided into multiple separate bone plates (at least two plates) that are affixed to different surfaces of the long bone. This segmentation allows each plate to independently resist forces in specific directions, collectively providing comprehensive protection against compressive, tensile, and torsional forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The solution transitions from a single-plane fixation to multi-planar fixation by affishing plates on different surfaces of the bone (e.g., anterior, lateral, posterior). This dimensional expansion creates a three-dimensional fixation system that effectively resists torsional moments and forces from multiple directions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If multiple bone plates are affixed to the long bone, then torsional stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of fracture movement under torsional forcesVSAvoidnumber of bone plates and transverse members

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple bone plates are connected to each other through transverse members that link the plates together. This merging creates an integrated fixation system where the plates work collectively as a unified structure, providing enhanced torsional stability while maintaining individual plate simplicity for easier installation and adjustment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7938849B2Method for treating long bone fractures

Publication Date: 2011.05.10 SILVERMAN BARRY J

AI summary

A method is provided for treating a fractured long bone. The method includes fastening a first bone plate to cortical bone of the fractured long bone and fastening a second bone plate to cortical bone of the fractured long bone. The first bone plate is circumferentially spaced from the second bone plate. The method also includes fastening a first end of a transverse member to the first bone plate and fastening a second end of the transverse member to the second bone plate.