Rib Fracture Fixation Using Intramedullary Osteosynthesis Splint
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for stabilizing rib fractures, such as flail chest injuries, often require access to posterior rib segments, leading to increased surgical time, soft tissue dissection, and potential stress on fragile ribs, especially in elderly patients, due to the need for additional fixation points and complex suturing.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for fixing rib fractures using an osteosynthesis splint that is affixed to the outside surface of the rib and extends into the intramedullary canal, eliminating the need for posterior fixation, reducing surgical access, and allowing the splint to move with the bone, thereby minimizing stress and simplifying the fixation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixation methods with plates and sutures are used to stabilize rib fractures, then secure fixation is achieved, but surgical time and soft tissue dissection are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device is segmented into multiple compression elements (first compression element and second compression element) that can independently engage with the rib bone. This segmentation allows each element to provide stabilization independently, achieving secure fixation with simpler application and reduced surgical time.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of rib stabilization from complex plate-and-suture systems, isolating it into discrete compression elements that can be applied independently. This removes unnecessary complexity while maintaining the core stabilization function, reducing both surgical time and soft tissue dissection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple fixation points are used to stabilize flail chest injuries, then fracture stability is improved, but device complexity and surgical procedure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system uses multiple independent compression elements rather than a single complex device. Each compression element can be applied separately to different rib fractures, providing cumulative stability through simple, modular components rather than one complicated multi-functional device.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression elements are designed to be flexible and adaptable during application, allowing surgeons to configure the fixation system dynamically based on the specific fracture pattern. This dynamic approach enables stable fixation of multiple ribs without requiring a pre-configured complex device.
3Stability of the object's composition
If compression is applied to fragile ribs during fixation, then fracture stabilization is achieved, but risk of further rib damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression elements are designed with localized compression zones that concentrate stabilizing force precisely at the fracture site while distributing stress away from fragile rib regions. This local quality approach provides effective fracture stabilization without subjecting the entire rib to harmful compressive forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression elements can adjust their compression force parameters to match the fragility of the specific rib being treated. By modifying the compression parameter, the device achieves adequate fracture stabilization while minimizing the risk of further damage to vulnerable rib structures.
4Reliability
If posterior rib access is obtained for fixation, then adequate stabilization is achieved, but soft tissue dissection and surgical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The compression elements are designed with universal applicability to ribs regardless of their anatomical location (anterior, lateral, or posterior). The same simple device can be applied to posterior ribs without requiring specialized tools or complex access procedures, achieving adequate stabilization while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and apparatus for fixing bone with an osteosynthesis splint. In embodiments of the present invention, a splint may be introduced into a bone at a fracture site, or may enter the rib at an opening near a fracture site and extend along the intramedullary canal across the fracture site.