Rod Reduction Clip Sliding Mechanism for Orthopedic Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of inserting and removing rod reduction assemblies in orthopedic fixation devices is time-consuming due to the labor involved in threading and unthreading components, especially in minimally invasive procedures where visibility and maneuverability are limited.
Innovation Solution
The development of a reduction clip with a cannulated body, rod reduction collar, and reducer that allows for sliding mechanisms to ease the insertion and removal of rods into orthopedic fixation devices, reducing the need for extensive threading and unthreading, and enabling secure positioning without retracting the reduction member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threading mechanisms are used to insert and remove rod reduction assemblies, then secure fixation is achieved, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The rod reduction assembly is divided into separate components: a rod reduction member with external threading, a separate nut with internal threading, and a fixation device. This segmentation allows the threading mechanism to be applied only to the reduction portion rather than the entire assembly, reducing overall installation time while maintaining secure fixation where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod reduction member is pre-threaded with external threads during manufacturing, eliminating the need for on-site threading operations. This preliminary preparation allows for quick engagement with the nut and fixation device, significantly reducing installation time while ensuring proper threading engagement for secure fixation.
2Ease of operation
If traditional rod reduction assemblies are used, then rod positioning is achieved, but the complexity of threading and unthreading components increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The threading mechanism is extracted from the main fixation device structure and concentrated into a separate rod reduction member and nut assembly. This extraction simplifies the overall device complexity by isolating the threading function to discrete, easily manageable components while maintaining the rod positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod reduction member is designed to be inserted through the fixation device, with the nut subsequently engaged over the reduction member. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional components (reduction member, nut, fixation device) to be integrated in a compact configuration, reducing overall device complexity while preserving rod positioning functionality.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If minimally invasive procedures are performed with limited visibility, then patient trauma is reduced, but the difficulty of maneuvering and viewing the rod increases operational difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The rod reduction member is designed with dynamic engagement capabilities, allowing it to be easily inserted and adjusted within the fixation device through small incisions. The member can be maneuvered into position and then securely locked via nut engagement, providing both minimal invasiveness and ease of operation despite limited visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The nut acts as an intermediary component that simplifies the maneuvering process. Instead of directly threading complex components through small incisions, the surgeon can engage the nut over the pre-inserted rod reduction member, providing mechanical advantage and easier control during minimally invasive procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments herein are generally directed to rod reduction clips that can efficiently attach to orthopedic fixation devices and reduce rods therein. Other embodiments herein are generally directed to coupling elements having removable extended tabs for use in orthopedic fixation devices.