Proximal Humerus Osteosynthesis Plates for Fracture Fixation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for internal fixation of proximal humeral fractures face challenges such as poor fixation quality, difficulty in addressing specific fracture fragments, and post-operative complications like varus collapse and limited range of motion.

Innovation Solution

A proximal humerus osteosynthesis plate system with customizable bone plate devices of varying sizes and shapes, designed based on anatomical parameters to provide improved fit and stability, and a kit containing multiple devices to accommodate different patient populations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single standardized bone plate design is used for proximal humerus fixation, then device complexity is reduced, but plate fit and fixation quality deteriorate across different patient populations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebone plate design complexityVSAvoidfixation quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The bone plate system is divided into multiple distinct plate designs (first bone plate, second bone plate, third bone plate) with different geometric configurations, hole patterns, and curvature radii. Each plate is optimized for specific anatomical variations and fracture patterns, allowing the system to accommodate diverse patient populations without requiring a single complex customizable plate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the proximal humerus are addressed with specialized plate features. For example, the first plate has a larger curvature radius for certain anatomical regions, while the second plate has a smaller curvature radius for other regions. The hole patterns and plate lengths are locally optimized for specific fracture locations and patient anatomies, improving fixation quality for each specific application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Shape

If bone plate curvature is increased to match anatomical contours, then plate fit improves, but plate interference with soft tissues (deltoid, rotator cuff) increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplate anatomical conformityVSAvoidsoft tissue interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Each bone plate design specifies a particular curvature radius optimized for its intended anatomical application. The first plate has a larger curvature radius suitable for certain anatomical contours, while the second plate has a smaller curvature radius for other contours. This local optimization allows each plate to fit its specific anatomical region without excessive curvature that would cause soft tissue interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system segments the proximal humerus fixation into multiple specialized plates, each with optimized curvature. This segmentation allows the curvature parameter to be independently optimized for each plate's specific anatomical indication, balancing anatomical conformity with soft tissue clearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple bone plate designs with different hole patterns are provided, then adaptability to different fracture patterns improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefracture pattern accommodationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the fixation solution into separate, specialized bone plates, each with a specific hole pattern optimized for particular fracture patterns. The first plate has a first pattern of holes, the second plate has a second pattern, and the third plate has a third pattern. This segmentation allows each plate to be optimized for its specific indication while maintaining overall system manageability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each bone plate design serves multiple functions within its specific indication range. For example, the second bone plate with its specific hole pattern can address multiple fracture patterns in the posterior greater tuberosity region. This multi-functionality at the plate level reduces the need for an excessive number of specialized plates, managing system complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250049483A1Anatomical Proximal Humerus Osteosynthesis Devices and Systems and Methods of Use Thereof
Publication Date: 2025.02.13 DEPUY SYNTHES PROD INC
  • US20250049483A1 patent drawing
  • US20250049483A1 patent drawing
  • US20250049483A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Anatomical proximal humerus osteosynthesis bone plate devices, as well as kits and systems containing same, are disclosed. The bone plate devices are configured and adapted for attachment to a proximal humerus. The kits include at least two bone plate devices that differ from one another in at least one structural and/or size characteristic. Also disclosed are methods of use thereof.