Retractable Bone Flap Plate for Secure Craniotomy Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional plate systems used to attach and reattach bone flaps during craniotomies are difficult to manipulate and install, increasing the complexity and cost of the surgical procedure.
Innovation Solution
A plate assembly comprising a main plate and movable attachment plates that can be switched between retracted and extended positions, allowing for easier handling and secure attachment of the bone flap to the skull, utilizing a tool to position and move the plates relative to the cut line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional plates and screws are used to attach the bone flap to the skull, then the bone flap can be securely attached, but the procedure becomes more difficult to manipulate and install, increasing surgical time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The plate is designed with a movable portion that can transition between a first position (where the plate spans the cut line) and a second position (where the movable portion is displaced from the cut line). This dynamic configuration allows the plate to be easily manipulated during surgery by simply moving it between positions, while still providing secure attachment when in the first position.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate is divided into a fixed portion and a movable portion that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the fixed portion to remain anchored while the movable portion is repositioned, facilitating easier manipulation and installation without compromising the overall attachment security.
2Reliability
If conventional plates are used to attach the bone flap, then the bone flap can be securely fixed, but the surgical procedure time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic movement of the plate between positions eliminates the need for complex manipulation procedures. The plate can be quickly repositioned from the second position (easy to handle) to the first position (secure attachment), significantly reducing the time required for the attachment procedure while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate is pre-configured with the movable portion that can be easily repositioned. This preliminary design allows the surgeon to quickly adjust the plate position without requiring additional tools or complex steps, thereby reducing surgical time while ensuring secure attachment when positioned correctly.
Data Source
AI summary
A plate assembly for attaching a bone flap to a skull is provided and may include a first plate member attached to the bone flap and a second plate member supported by the first plate member and movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the first plate member. The second plate member may be removed from a cut line between the bone flap and the skull in the retracted position and may extend over the cut line in the extended position.