Outcome-based splinting for simultaneous fracture reduction and fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional external fixation systems for bone fractures require separate reduction and fixation components, making the process complex and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A digitally-guided reduction and external fixation system that uses reference pins, an image capture device, and a processor to virtually reposition pins and generate a three-dimensional support device for simultaneous fracture reduction and fixation, which is then produced and applied at the point-of-care using a 3D printing device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate reduction and fixation components are used in conventional external fixation, then the fixation can be achieved, but the procedural complexity increases and time is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate reduction and fixation components into a single integrated external fixation device. The device includes a fixation frame with adjustable connecting elements that can simultaneously perform both reduction (realignment of bone fragments) and fixation (stabilization) functions, eliminating the need for separate procedures and components.
Solution Approach 2:
The external fixation device is designed with multi-functional capabilities where the same fixation frame and connecting elements can perform multiple functions: initial bone fragment alignment (reduction), stabilization during healing (fixation), and postoperative adjustment. This universal design reduces procedural steps while maintaining clinical effectiveness.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple connecting bars are assembled separately, then the fixation structure can be built, but the assembly time and procedural steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The external fixation device is pre-assembled or pre-configured with connecting elements in predetermined positions and orientations. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid deployment during surgery without requiring time-consuming on-site assembly of multiple separate connecting bars, while still providing the necessary structural stability for fracture fixation.
3Strength
If conventional external fixation devices are used, then bone stabilization can be achieved, but soft tissue disruption and procedural invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The external fixation device is divided into modular segments including separate fixation pins, connecting elements, and adjustment mechanisms. This segmentation allows for minimally invasive insertion of individual pins through safe corridors in the bone, avoiding the need for large incisions and extensive soft tissue dissection required by traditional internal fixation methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The external fixation frame serves as an intermediary structure that provides bone stabilization without requiring direct contact with or disruption of the fracture site and surrounding soft tissues. The pins and connecting elements transmit stabilizing forces through the bone while the external frame maintains proper alignment, protecting soft tissues from surgical trauma.
Data Source
AI summary
A bone fracture fixation system including reference pins inserted into bone fragments of a patient in a first configuration and an image capture device configured to capture an image of the reference pins, and the bone fragments. The system includes a processor configured to receive and pre-process the captured image data. The processor pre-processes the image data by virtually re-positioning the reference pins in the first configuration into a second configuration, wherein the re-positioning virtually re-positions the bone fragments into normal alignment; and virtually generating a support device. The system includes a point-of-care production apparatus that produces a three-dimensional model of the virtually generated support device in a form that can be applied to the patient. The three-dimensional support device generated by the point-of-care production apparatus is configured to receive the reference pins in the first configuration; and simultaneously re-positions and fixes the bone fragments into normal alignment.