Polyaxial Fastener Deformable Head Bone Plate Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bone plating systems lack the ability to securely fixate bone fragments at varying angles, leading to misalignment and instability, particularly in comminuted fractures, as existing locking screws are limited to a single angular configuration and non-locking screws do not provide a stable construct.
Innovation Solution
The development of polyaxial fasteners with a deformable portion that forms a secure fit with the bone plate threads upon insertion at any desired angle, allowing for polyaxial fixation and reducing the likelihood of fastener loosening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking screws are used with pre-determined angular orientation, then rigid fixation and stability are achieved, but versatility and adaptability to various fracture configurations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system transitions from a fixed angular configuration to a dynamic polyaxial configuration. The fastener head can rotate freely within the plate opening during insertion, allowing adaptation to various angular orientations. After insertion, the fastener becomes locked in place, providing stable fixation. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between initial flexibility and final stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds an angular dimension of freedom to the traditional uniaxial locking screw. Instead of being constrained to a single predetermined angle, the fastener can be inserted at multiple angles (polyaxial) while still achieving secure fixation. This dimensional change in freedom of orientation resolves the contradiction between angular flexibility and fixation stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If non-locking screws are used to allow various insertion angles, then angular flexibility is improved, but fixation stability and resistance to loosening deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system transitions from a fixed angular configuration to a dynamic polyaxial configuration. The fastener head can rotate freely within the plate opening during insertion, allowing adaptation to various angular orientations. After insertion, the fastener becomes locked in place, providing stable fixation. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between initial flexibility and final stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds an angular dimension of freedom to the traditional uniaxial locking screw. Instead of being constrained to a single predetermined angle, the fastener can be inserted at multiple angles (polyaxial) while still achieving secure fixation. This dimensional change in freedom of orientation resolves the contradiction between angular flexibility and fixation stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure fixation of bone fragments at various angles, providing a stable connection and reducing the risk of fastener detachment, thus improving fracture stabilization and healing outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
the deformable portion comes into contact with a set of threads within the opening. The threads are made from a material that is harder than the deformable portion of the fastener. Thus, the threads cut into and deform the deformable portion, forming a secure fit between the polyaxial fastener and the plate.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for reducing a fracture in a bone, comprising a bone plate and a polyaxial fastener. In some examples the head of the polyaxial fastener has a deformable portion. As a fastener is inserted into an opening of a bone plate, threads located within the opening deform the deformable portion to secure the fastener in place at a desired angle within the opening. The head of the fastener also includes a bottom portion that bears against a portion of the opening to move the bone plate relative to the underlying tissue. A securing member or other structure may be included at the interface of the head and the deformable portion to secure the deformable portion to the head. At least one flute may be included on the deformable portion that provides a lead-in for the threads within the opening to cut into the deformable portion.