Unilateral External Fixator for 3D Bone Alignment Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixators are cumbersome, difficult to use in multiple planes, and obscure the surgical field, making it challenging to correct complex bone deformities and fractures, particularly in three dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A unilateral external fixator with universal joints and adjustable screws, combined with a computer-assisted method for precise control of bone alignment, allowing manipulation in multiple degrees of freedom and providing a clear surgical field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a circular fixator with multiple rings and struts is used to correct bone deformities, then the fixator can provide stability and support, but the hardware becomes complex and bulky, obscuring the surgical field and making it difficult to manage components during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The fixator is divided into modular components including a central body, multiple bases, and adjustable linkages that can be independently positioned and secured. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while reducing overall complexity compared to a monolithic circular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal joints incorporated in the fixator allow single components to perform multiple functions - providing both rotational freedom and positional stability. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall hardware while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If a circular fixator with multiple struts is used to correct bone deformities, then the fixator can provide structural support, but the struts obscure the surgical field, making it difficult for surgeons to see the surgical area
Solution Approach 1:
The fixator design transitions from a two-dimensional circular configuration to a three-dimensional unilateral structure that positions support elements above and below the surgical field rather than surrounding it. This dimensional change maintains structural support while clearing the surgical view.
3Reliability
If a circular fixator with multiple components is used to correct bone deformities, then the fixator can provide comprehensive support, but it becomes difficult to manage all components during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The fixator components are pre-assembled into modular units with predetermined geometric relationships. This preliminary configuration allows surgeons to attach complete functional modules to the bone rather than assembling individual components during surgery, significantly easing intraoperative management.
4Reliability
If a bulky circular fixator is used to correct bone deformities, then the fixator can provide structural stability, but patients have difficulty carrying the device on their extremity in daily life
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts only the essential stabilizing elements needed for bone correction, removing redundant structural components found in circular fixators. This extraction maintains structural stability while dramatically reducing the bulk and weight of the device, making it comfortable for daily patient use.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of correcting a bone deformity or reducing a bone fracture with an external fixator. The method comprises uploading a first set of x-rays to a computer program, characterizing geometry of a bone deformity with the program, recommending frame geometry for correcting the deformity, then after surgery uploading a second set of x-rays with fixator attached, characterizing geometry again, calculating fixator adjustments necessary to align bones, and providing proposed fixator positions.