Snap-On Bone Fixation Bracket with Perpendicular Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixation systems for small bone fractures, such as finger fractures, are too bulky and difficult to use effectively due to limited space, requiring time-consuming handling of 2-component bone cement for stabilization.
Innovation Solution
A snap-on bracket system comprising blocks with perpendicular channels for needles and rods, made of molded polyurethane, allowing for quick and secure attachment of needles and rods without the need for extensive cement use, utilizing surgical steel or titanium needles and carbon fiber rods for stability and X-ray invisibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional external fixation systems are used for small bone fractures, then the fixation can be achieved, but the system is too bulky and difficult to use in limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into separate modular components: needles for bone insertion, blocks as connection elements, and rods for external support. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled in confined spaces, resolving the contradiction between achieving stable fixation and working in limited space.
Solution Approach 2:
The block components are designed to nest the needle channels within the block structure, with multiple channels arranged in a compact configuration. This nesting approach minimizes the overall volume of the fixation system while maintaining all necessary connection points for stable bone fixation.
2Productivity
If 2-component bone cement is used for stabilization, then the fixation can be achieved, but it requires a lot of preparation time and is difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The chemical bonding system (2-component bone cement) is replaced with a mechanical connection system using blocks with integrated channels that physically secure needles and rods. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for mixing and waiting for cement to harden, dramatically reducing preparation time and simplifying the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocks are pre-manufactured with precisely formed channels and geometric features that directly receive and secure the needles and rods. This preliminary preparation of connection elements eliminates the need for intraoperative mixing and application of bone cement, allowing immediate assembly and fixation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If screws and bolts are used for adjusting angles and distances, then the fixation can be adjusted, but the system becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The block components are designed with multiple channels oriented at different angles, allowing dynamic adjustment of needle and rod positions. The channels can be arranged at various angles (e.g., 90 degrees, 45 degrees) to accommodate different fracture patterns and anatomical requirements, providing adaptability without complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The block serves multiple functions: it anchors needles, connects rods, provides angular adjustment, and maintains spacing. This multi-functional design replaces what would otherwise require separate screws, bolts, and adjustment mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixation system for fixing a bone fracture has a plurality of blocks, needles and rods that snap together in a framework around the fracture. The needles are inserted through the bone and the blocks are snapped onto the ends of the needles. Rods are snapped onto the blocks on both sides of the finger to keep the finger in place. Each block has two channels located on opposite sides and extending perpendicular to each other. The channels are structured so that a rod or needle having a diameter equal or slightly greater than one of the channels can be snapped into and retained by the channel.