Transosseous Ribbon Wire Rectangular Cross-Section Bone Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixation devices using circular cross-section wires can tear out of soft or degraded bone when tension or loads are applied, necessitating a system with a non-circular cross-section for improved stability.
Innovation Solution
A transosseous ribbon wire with a rectangular cross-section and a specialized delivery tool using a reciprocating motion for installation, along with hardware designed to secure the wire to an external fixator, providing increased surface area and pullout resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If circular cross-section wires are used in external fixation devices, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the wire can tear out of soft or degraded bone when tension or loads are applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the wire cross-section from a circular shape to a non-circular shape (such as rectangular or elliptical). This asymmetric geometry increases the surface area in contact with the bone, thereby improving pullout resistance and preventing the wire from tearing out of soft or degraded bone when tension or loads are applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional circular cross-section to a two-dimensional non-circular cross-section (e.g., rectangular with width and height dimensions). This dimensional change increases the surface area available for bone contact, enhancing the wire's ability to resist pullout forces while maintaining structural integrity.
2Area of moving object
If circular cross-section wires are used, then the installation process is simple, but the surface area in contact with bone is insufficient leading to tearing under load
Solution Approach 1:
The non-circular cross-section creates an asymmetric geometry that increases the surface area contacting the bone. This asymmetric shape provides greater friction and mechanical interlocking, preventing wire pullout while the specialized delivery tool maintains ease of installation through a standardized insertion process.
3Reliability
If non-circular cross-section wire is used, then pullout resistance is improved, but the wire requires specialized delivery tool and installation method
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric non-circular cross-section provides superior fixation stability by increasing bone contact surface area and improving mechanical interlocking. The specialized delivery tool is designed with corresponding asymmetric features to match the wire geometry, ensuring proper orientation and insertion while maintaining a relatively simple overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices for use in performing external fixation orthopedic surgery are provided. More particularly, a specialized transosseous wire having a rectangular cross-section is provided. The specialized wire is installed using a reciprocating motion. Thereafter, the specialized transosseous wires are affixed to a frame. Methods of using the transosseous wire are also disclosed.