Monolithic Rib Plate With Variable Cross-Section Bridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rib plates lack versatility and reliability in fixing fractured ribs at desired distances and orientations, limiting their effectiveness in surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic rib plate design featuring multiple screw orifices along a line connected by bridges, with additional screw orifices laterally connected by bridges of varying cross-sections for enhanced flexibility and adjustability, combined with polyaxial locking screws and bridge plates for precise alignment and force distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional monolithic rib plate design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but versatility and adaptability in fixing fractured ribs at desired distances and orientations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rib plate is divided into multiple modular units or segments, each capable of independent adjustment. This segmentation allows the plate to be configured in various patterns to match different rib fracture scenarios, enhancing versatility while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through standardized modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The rib plate incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow surgeons to modify the distance and orientation of fixation points after implantation. This dynamic capability enables the same plate design to adapt to multiple fracture patterns and anatomical variations, significantly improving versatility without requiring completely different plate designs for each case.
2Ease of operation
If bridges with uniform cross-section are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but flexibility and adjustability during surgical procedures are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bridges connecting screw orifices feature varying cross-sections tailored to specific functional requirements. Bridges in regions requiring higher flexibility have reduced cross-sections, while bridges needing greater strength maintain larger cross-sections. This localized differentiation optimizes surgical flexibility and adjustability while keeping manufacturing processes relatively simple through standardized variable geometry.
3Reliability
If fewer screw orifices are provided, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability in achieving desired fixation distance and orientation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rib plate is designed with multiple screw orifices arranged in various patterns, where each orifice can serve multiple functions depending on the fracture configuration. The same set of orifices can be used for different fixation distances and orientations by selecting different combinations and angles, thereby achieving reliable fixation across multiple scenarios without requiring an excessive number of orifices.
4Strength
If bridges with larger cross-section are used, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility and adjustability during surgery are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge cross-sections are strategically varied to balance strength and flexibility requirements. Bridges located in high-stress regions maintain larger cross-sections for structural integrity, while bridges in regions requiring rotational or angular adjustment have reduced cross-sections to facilitate flexibility. This localized optimization ensures both structural strength and adaptability are achieved in their respective functional zones.
Data Source
AI summary
A monolithic rib plate is described. The rib plate comprises multiple first screw orifices located substantially along a first line and connected by first bridges, multiple second screw orifices located laterally on one side of the first line and connected by second bridges, wherein one or more of the second bridges have a smaller cross-section than the first bridges, and third bridges, each connecting one of the second screw orifices with one of the first screw orifices. Also described is a rib plate system comprising the monolithic rib plate and at least one of one or more polyaxial locking screws, a tool for removing the second bridges, a tool for bending the monolithic rib plate, and one or more orifice bridge plates.