Intramedullary Nail Bore Structure for Multi-Screw Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intramedullary nails are limited by bore holes configured to accept only one type and configuration of locking screw, hindering the ability to enhance fixation methods and requiring different iterations of nails for various screw types.
Innovation Solution
The intramedullary nail features a transverse bore with segmented negative threads and an annular recess accommodating a locking ring, allowing it to securely fit multiple screw types with different dimensions and pitches, enhanced by a locking ring that provides additional fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the transverse bore is configured with a single thread configuration, then the manufacturing and fixation process is simple, but the nail can only accept one type and configuration of locking screw
Solution Approach 1:
The transverse bore is divided into multiple threaded segments (first threaded segment and second threaded segment) with different root diameters. Each segment can accommodate screws with different outer thread diameters, allowing a single nail to accept multiple screw types without increasing overall structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The transverse bore is designed with multi-functional threading capability to accommodate different screw configurations (different outer thread diameters and pitches) within a single bore structure, eliminating the need for multiple nail iterations for different screw types
2Reliability
If different iterations of intramedullary nails are used for each type of locking screw, then proper securement is ensured, but the device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bore is segmented into multiple threaded regions with different root diameters, allowing different screw types to be accommodated within the same nail while maintaining proper securement for each screw type through the appropriate segment
Solution Approach 2:
A single nail design with multi-configurable threading can reliably secure multiple screw types, reducing the need for multiple nail iterations while maintaining fixation security through the annular recess and locking ring mechanism
3Adaptability or versatility
If the bore accepts multiple screw types with different dimensions, then surgical flexibility is improved, but the precision of thread engagement becomes more difficult to ensure
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded bore is divided into discrete segments with clearly defined root diameters and thread pitches. Each segment is precisely engineered to match specific screw types, ensuring accurate thread engagement while maintaining surgical flexibility to choose from multiple screw configurations
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the bore have locally optimized thread properties (root diameter, pitch, depth) tailored to specific screw types. This local customization ensures precise engagement for each screw type without compromising the overall versatility of the nail design
Data Source
AI summary
An intramedullary nail includes a body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the body defining a transverse bore extending through the body along a transverse bore axis, the transverse bore having a threaded first segment with a negative thread defined by a first segment root diameter and a first segment outer thread diameter, the transverse bore having a threaded second segment with a negative thread defined by a second segment root diameter and a second segment outer thread diameter, wherein the second segment root diameter is larger than the first segment root diameter. A surgical assembly includes the intramedullary nail and a locking ring configured to be disposed within the annular recess.