Osteotomy Plate with Tapered Insertion Edge and Raised Rails
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods for stabilizing bones in the foot and hand during osteotomy procedures, such as using pins, wires, and screws, are not always satisfactory, particularly for older patients or those with specific bone conditions.
Innovation Solution
An orthopedic plate with a modified rectangular or bar-like footprint, featuring raised edges or rails for stability, a cutting edge for insertion, and holes for screws or pins, designed for use in osteotomy procedures to stabilize bones in the foot and hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pins, wires, and screws are used for bone stabilization, then the procedure can be performed, but the stabilization effectiveness is insufficient and torsion risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plate is divided into multiple segments with distinct functional zones: a proximal segment for insertion into cancellous bone, a mid-section for compression, and a distal segment for locking into cortical bone. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function optimally, providing both stabilization and torsion resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate features asymmetric geometry with a rounded proximal end for insertion, a tapered mid-section for compression, and a rectangular distal end for locking. The raised edges are positioned asymmetrically to provide stability against torsion while allowing controlled compression. This asymmetric design addresses the specific mechanical requirements of different bone regions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a plate with raised edges and rails is used, then stability and torsion resistance are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The raised edges and rails are merged with the plate body as an integrated structure rather than separate components. The rails are formed as continuous edges that rise from the plate surface, combining the stabilizing function with the structural integrity of the plate itself. This merging approach provides stability without adding separate complex components.
Solution Approach 2:
The raised edges serve multiple functions: they provide stability during insertion, resist torsion forces, and guide the compression process. The rails similarly provide both structural support and guidance for the surgical driver. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall device while maintaining stability.
3Ease of operation
If a tapered cutting edge is included, then insertion into bone is facilitated, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tapered cutting edge is applied locally only to the proximal end of the plate where insertion is required, while the rest of the plate maintains its structural thickness and geometry. This localized application of the taper provides easy insertion without requiring the entire plate to be manufactured with high precision, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining the insertion advantage.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic plate is specifically configured for use in osteotomies, in which part of the plate extends into a portion of a first bone segment and part is external to the cortical surface of an adjacent bone segment to fix the segments to allow them to fuse. The plate has a first end and a second end where the end which is inserted into the bone has a chamfer and a through hole having a hole axis optionally at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of the plate, and which can receive a screw, peg or pin. The second end of the plate includes a locking screw hole and optionally including a compression slot extending in a direction toward a screw hole in the opposing end. Optionally, the non-locking hole has a shroud that forms an arc or portion of a cylinder over the hole. A plate driver having a recess that holds the plate is used to insert the plate into the bone.