Rib Fixation Plate With Cable Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopaedic fixation devices lack effective solutions for rejoining separated bone portions, particularly in surgical procedures where bones are cut or fractured, requiring innovative devices that can realign and stabilize bone segments for proper healing.
Innovation Solution
The development of implantable fixation devices, including contoured plates and cable locking mechanisms, that can be affixed to bones using fasteners and sutures, and positioning devices to guide and secure fasteners, enabling precise realignment and stabilization of separated bone segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixation devices are used for rejoining separated bone portions, then the procedure is simple, but the devices lack effective solutions for realigning and stabilizing bone segments
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device is divided into multiple functional segments: a plate component for attachment to bone, a cable component for tensioning and alignment, and a locking mechanism for securing the cable. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall device effectiveness for bone realignment and stabilization.
2Manufacturing precision
If contoured plates and cable locking mechanisms are used to realign bone segments, then alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable acts as an intermediary element between the plate and the bone segments, providing tensioning and alignment forces. The cable locking mechanism serves as an intermediary device that secures the cable in place, enabling precise control over bone segment positioning without requiring the plate itself to be overly complex.
3Reliability
If multiple fasteners and sutures are used to affix plates to bones, then fixation security is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable locking mechanism is designed to be self-contained, where the cable itself serves as both the fastening element and the locking element. Once the cable is tensioned and locked, it maintains fixation security without requiring additional separate fasteners or sutures, thereby simplifying the installation process while maintaining reliable fixation.
Data Source
AI summary
Implantable fixation devices for rejoining opposed portions of a separated bone. The devices include plates that may be affixed to a rib and realign separated portions of the rib or other body part. The devices may also include various locking mechanisms that receive a cable that may be used to realign and bring together separated portions of a bone or other body part. The devices may further include plates that may be affixed to a sternum and realign separated portions of the sternum or other body part.