Orthopedic Fixator With Deformable Span For Controlled Bone Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic fixators require manual intervention for initial distraction and adjustment, which can be cumbersome and may not allow for precise controlled movement or rotation of bone fragments during the healing process, potentially leading to stiffness and inadequate alignment.
Innovation Solution
An orthopedic apparatus with a first and second attaching apparatus connected by a control apparatus that allows for distraction, compression, or controlled rotation of bone units, utilizing deformable members to move the attaching apparatus relative to each other, enabling automatic adjustment and precise positioning of bone fragments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual intervention is used for initial distraction and adjustment, then the apparatus can be operated, but the process becomes cumbersome and may not allow for precise controlled movement or rotation of bone fragments
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable member is configured to automatically move the attaching apparatus relative to each other through its own deformation characteristics, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The member's inherent elastic properties enable self-adjustment while maintaining precise control over bone fragment movement and rotation throughout the healing process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment is required to alter the degree of distraction, then the apparatus can be adjusted, but frequent manual intervention is needed which is time-consuming and may disrupt the healing process
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable member provides dynamic adjustment capabilities where the degree of distraction can be modified by changing the member's deformation state. This allows the apparatus to adapt to different healing stages without requiring time-consuming manual reconfiguration, as the member can be repositioned or reconfigured quickly while maintaining continuous control.
3Reliability
If springs are secured to pins using polymer/monomer, then the connection is established, but the process requires additional materials and steps that complicate the procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for polymer/monomer materials and associated securing steps by using a deformable member that connects to the pins through mechanical deformation alone. This extraction of unnecessary materials and steps simplifies the overall device while maintaining reliable connection through the member's inherent deformable properties.
4Ease of operation
If bones are manually separated to provide initial distraction, then distraction can be initiated, but this requires additional manual manipulation that increases procedure complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable member is pre-configured with the capability to provide initial distraction automatically upon attachment to the bone fragments. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual bone separation, as the member's deformation characteristics are designed to initiate distraction immediately when installed, thereby simplifying the installation procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic apparatus is provided for bridging a first bone unit to a second bone unit. The apparatus is demonstrated on a finger joint, wherein one of the bones and/or ligaments and/or tendons of the joint is/are injured. A method for implanting and using the apparatus also is presented. The apparatus includes a reformably deformable span portion which is generally circular and preferably rhombic. By deforming or reforming the span portion, it can be repositioned laterally, and/or it can be rotated to allow range of rotary motion so as to promote healing.