Orthopedic Fixation Component with Multi-Axis Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixation systems lack flexibility and adjustability, particularly when multiple fixation components are used, as they constrain the positioning of pins and wires, limiting optimal placement and requiring removal and repositioning of bars to achieve further reduction in fractures.
Innovation Solution
The development of a fixation component with capture members that allow rotation in multiple planes and a drill guide that enables optimal placement of fixation elements, providing greater freedom of movement and sequential locking for improved adjustability and cooperation with specialized systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple fixation components are used to stabilize fractures, then the stability and support for bone fragments is improved, but the flexibility and adjustability of the system deteriorates as components constrain each other
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation component incorporates a dynamic coupling mechanism between capture members that allows rotation about multiple axes. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt its configuration as additional components are added, maintaining flexibility while providing stable fixation. The capture members can rotate independently to accommodate different pin and wire orientations without constraining the overall system adjustability.
2Manufacturing precision
If fixation components are positioned to achieve optimal fracture reduction, then the alignment of bone fragments is improved, but the ability to perform additional reduction deteriorates because the system becomes constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling between capture members allows for dynamic adjustment during the surgical procedure. After initial positioning and alignment of bone fragments, the system remains adjustable because the capture members can rotate relative to each other. This enables additional reduction maneuvers without requiring removal and repositioning of bars, as the capture members can be repositioned within their rotational range.
3Measurement precision
If pins and wires are placed with high precision for optimal fixation, then the effectiveness of the external fixation system is improved, but the complexity of achieving accurate placement deteriorates due to constrained positioning options
Solution Approach 1:
The capture members are designed with rotational freedom about multiple axes, which simplifies the placement process. Surgeons can insert pins and wires at various angles and positions without being constrained by fixed orientation requirements. The dynamic coupling automatically accommodates different placement configurations, reducing the complexity of achieving accurate pin and wire placement while maintaining high precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices according to this invention provide drill guides for optimal placement of fixation elements, such as half pins, into a patient's bone. According to one embodiment, a collar frame (202) with a collar adapted (204) to receive a bar (270) of an orthopedic external fixation system such that the collar may be moved linearly or rotationally about the bar is coupled to a guide frame (224) including a bore (232) through which a fixation element (266) of the external fixation system may be inserted. The coupling between the collar frame and the guide frame allows for them to rotate about at least one axis relative to each other. In one embodiment, the collar frame and the guide frame may rotate about three axes relative to each other.