Sternal Reconstruction System with Dynamic Compression Plates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sternal fixation devices lack adjustability and selectivity, making it difficult to reposition or adjust bone screws and metal pins after implantation, which is necessary for accommodating different alignments during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A sternal reconstruction system comprising a flexible cable with crimp fittings, cannulated screws, and reconstruction plates that allow for tensioning and secure fixation of sternum parts, enabling adjustable alignment and stabilization without the need for frequent removal and reimplantation of fixation devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If bone screws or metal pins are used for sternal fixation, then stabilization of bone fragments is achieved, but repositioning or adjusting the devices after implantation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic compression plates with movable holes that can shift positions along the plate. This allows the fixation device to transition from a static stable structure to a dynamically adjustable one, enabling repositioning of bone fragments without removing the entire device. The dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction by providing both initial stabilization and subsequent adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device is divided into modular components including separate plates, screws, and movable adjustment mechanisms. This segmentation allows individual components to be adjusted independently, facilitating repositioning while maintaining overall structural stability. The modular design enables selective adjustment of specific bone fragments without affecting the entire fixation system.
2Strength
If bone screws are drilled and tapped across fractures for compression, then stabilization and compression of bone fragments is achieved, but subsequent realignment requires removal and reimplantation
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic compression plate incorporates movable holes that can be repositioned along the plate length. This allows the compression mechanism to be adjusted after initial implantation, enabling realignment of bone portions without removing the plate. The dynamic feature maintains compression strength while providing ease of repair through adjustable hole positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the positional parameter of the compression points by allowing holes to move along the plate. This parameter change enables adjustment of compression locations to accommodate realigned bone fragments, maintaining the stabilizing compression force while adapting to new anatomical configurations without requiring device removal.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixation devices are used to accommodate different alignments, then comprehensive coverage of alignment scenarios is achieved, but device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic compression plate is designed as a universal device that can accommodate multiple alignment scenarios through its movable hole mechanism. A single plate design serves multiple functions by allowing holes to be positioned at various locations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized plates for different alignment cases. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment capability allows one device to adapt to various alignment requirements that would traditionally require multiple static devices. The movable holes provide versatility in accommodating different fracture patterns and alignment needs, reducing the number of components needed while maintaining comprehensive adaptability across surgical scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A sternal reconstruction system for securing parts of a sternum includes at least one flexible cable with crimp fitting, at least one cannulated screw and at least one reconstruction plate. Circumferential or parasternal fixation may be brought about by use of a sternal reconstruction system including a flexible cable and crimp fitting alone; a sternal reconstruction system including a flexible cable, crimp fitting and cannulated screws; or a system including a flexible cable, crimp fitting, cannulated screws and one or more reconstruction plates. The reconstruction plates are typically planar, having an upper and a lower surface, and containing generally perpendicular and transverse plate holes. The generally perpendicular plate holes are countersunk to better accommodate the heads of the cannulated bone screws. Also provided is a kit for sternal reconstruction.