Rib Fixation Implant Assemblies for Rib-Head Fractures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rib fixation devices are inadequate for fractures and osteotomies adjacent to the rib head due to a lack of fixation options, limiting their versatility and effectiveness in treating a wider range of pathologies.
Innovation Solution
The development of implant assemblies, including plates with bone fastener holes, implant holders, drill guides, and inserter instruments, which allow for secure fixation at the rib head and mid-rib fractures, accommodating various surgical needs and patient anatomies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If plate-style fixation devices with screws or anchors are used for mid-rib fractures, then adequate fixation is achieved with two or three screws on either side, but fixation is inadequate for posterior rib fractures adjacent to the rib head due to lack of fixation options
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into multiple components: a plate for mid-rib fixation and separate rib head anchors for posterior rib fractures. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific location, with the plate providing screw fixation for mid-rib fractures and the anchors providing specialized fixation for rib head fractures, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability for specific locations and versatility across different fracture types
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation system is designed to serve multiple functions: it can treat mid-rib fractures using plate and screw fixation, and it can treat posterior rib fractures adjacent to the rib head using the specialized anchors. This multi-functionality allows a single system to address various fracture locations and pathologies, resolving the contradiction between reliability for specific fracture types and versatility across different clinical scenarios
2Ease of operation
If traditional untreated or casting methods are used for rib fractures, then simplicity is maintained, but pain reduction and healing effectiveness are limited compared to fixation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is designed to be applied in a standardized sequence of steps: plate attachment, screw insertion, and anchor placement. This preliminary structuring of the surgical process makes the complex procedure more manageable and reproducible, balancing the increased complexity of active fixation with improved healing effectiveness and pain reduction compared to passive treatments
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods include solutions for fixation at the rib head for fractures and osteotomies adjacent to the rib head and transverse process. The disclosed rib plates, anchor systems, other implants, and instrumentation may also be applied to mid-rib fractures. The systems and methods may be used in the treatment of rib deformities, including the correction of rib hump deformity via thoracoplasty, as well as general corrections of chest and rib deformities. Systems and methods herein may be used in chest wall reconstructions due to trauma, cancer, or deformity.