WO1997022301A1 - Dispositif de fixation interfragmentaire compose de plusieurs pieces - Google Patents

Dispositif de fixation interfragmentaire compose de plusieurs pieces Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1997022301A1
WO1997022301A1 PCT/US1996/020588 US9620588W WO9722301A1 WO 1997022301 A1 WO1997022301 A1 WO 1997022301A1 US 9620588 W US9620588 W US 9620588W WO 9722301 A1 WO9722301 A1 WO 9722301A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fastener
connector
bone
threading
interfragmentary
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1996/020588
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Dale G. Bramlet
Original Assignee
Bramlet Dale G
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Bramlet Dale G filed Critical Bramlet Dale G
Priority to AU14678/97A priority Critical patent/AU1467897A/en
Publication of WO1997022301A1 publication Critical patent/WO1997022301A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/56—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor
    • A61B17/58—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor for osteosynthesis, e.g. bone plates, screws, setting implements or the like
    • A61B17/68—Internal fixation devices, including fasteners and spinal fixators, even if a part thereof projects from the skin
    • A61B17/72—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices
    • A61B17/7291—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices for small bones, e.g. in the foot, ankle, hand or wrist
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/16—Bone cutting, breaking or removal means other than saws, e.g. Osteoclasts; Drills or chisels for bones; Trepans
    • A61B17/1655—Bone cutting, breaking or removal means other than saws, e.g. Osteoclasts; Drills or chisels for bones; Trepans for tapping
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/16—Bone cutting, breaking or removal means other than saws, e.g. Osteoclasts; Drills or chisels for bones; Trepans
    • A61B17/1662—Bone cutting, breaking or removal means other than saws, e.g. Osteoclasts; Drills or chisels for bones; Trepans for particular parts of the body
    • A61B17/1686—Bone cutting, breaking or removal means other than saws, e.g. Osteoclasts; Drills or chisels for bones; Trepans for particular parts of the body for the hand or wrist
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/56—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor
    • A61B17/58—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor for osteosynthesis, e.g. bone plates, screws, setting implements or the like
    • A61B17/68—Internal fixation devices, including fasteners and spinal fixators, even if a part thereof projects from the skin
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/56—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor
    • A61B17/58—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor for osteosynthesis, e.g. bone plates, screws, setting implements or the like
    • A61B17/68—Internal fixation devices, including fasteners and spinal fixators, even if a part thereof projects from the skin
    • A61B17/72—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices
    • A61B17/7216—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices for bone lengthening or compression
    • A61B17/7225—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices for bone lengthening or compression for bone compression
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/56—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor
    • A61B17/58—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor for osteosynthesis, e.g. bone plates, screws, setting implements or the like
    • A61B17/68—Internal fixation devices, including fasteners and spinal fixators, even if a part thereof projects from the skin
    • A61B17/72—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/56—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor
    • A61B17/58—Surgical instruments or methods for treatment of bones or joints; Devices specially adapted therefor for osteosynthesis, e.g. bone plates, screws, setting implements or the like
    • A61B17/68—Internal fixation devices, including fasteners and spinal fixators, even if a part thereof projects from the skin
    • A61B17/72—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices
    • A61B17/7233—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices with special means of locking the nail to the bone
    • A61B17/7258—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices with special means of locking the nail to the bone with laterally expanding parts, e.g. for gripping the bone
    • A61B17/7266—Intramedullary pins, nails or other devices with special means of locking the nail to the bone with laterally expanding parts, e.g. for gripping the bone with fingers moving radially outwardly

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates biological medical instruments and, more particularly, to a multipiece fixation assembly for interconnecting two pieces of a fractured bone under a predetermined and substantially constant compressive force to promote optimum healing of the fracture.
  • the scaphoid represents one of the most frequently injured bones of the wrist.
  • Scaphoid fractures commonly result from an acute dorsiflexion stress such as occurs following a fall on an outstretched hand. If the fracture is initially recognized and properly immobilized, healing rates approaching 95 % have been documented for acute fractures. Fractures have historically been divided into three types based on the level of the fracture. The fractures through the middle one-third of the scaphoid are most common and occur approximately 70% of the time. Fractures through the proximal one- third of the scaphoid occur approximately 20% of the time, and are at greater risk for developing avascular necrosis. Fractures of the distal scaphoid are very uncommon, occurring approximately 10% of the time, and have a very high union rate with proper immobilization.
  • Fractures of the scaphoid have also been classified based on the orientation of the fracture line in relation to the longitudinal axis of the scaphoid. The majority of fractures occur transverse to the longitudinal axis of the scaphoid and will sometimes heal with as little as six weeks of immobilization. Horizontal oblique fractures are the second most common, occurring approximately 35 % of the time, with vertical oblique fractures being quite rare. Both horizontal and oblique fractures can require a longer period of immobilization to obtain union between the fractured bone fragments. The vast majority of scaphoid fractures will heal with twelve weeks of immobilization, and anything past four months may be regarded as a delayed union.
  • Fractures that have not healed within six months of immobilization from the time of injury, and that have definite sclerotic margins at the fracture lines, can be considered to be an established non-union of the fractured bone fragments.
  • Surgical fastener assemblies for rejoining and holding fractured or broken bone fragments in place are known in the art. Where cross-fixation of the bone fragments is required, mamtaining and holding both bone fragments in compression relative to each other enhances the likelihood of success of the surgical procedure. As will be readily appreciated, a gap or displacement between the adjacent bone fragments is highly undesirable because fibrous tissue will grow therebetween before the fracture can heal with boney unions. Thus delaying the healing process. Space between the bone fragments also tends to allow the bone fragments to shift or displace relative to each other thus adding to the retardation of the healing process.
  • a headed bone screw does not lend itself to those situations wherein there is inadequate bone substance or stock to allow countersinking of the enlarged head portion of the bone screw.
  • Providing a countersunk configuration in the bone substance also often destroys cartilage needed in a joint for its proper functioning.
  • U.S. Patent No. 4, 175,555 issued November 27, 1979 to T. J. Herbert discloses a bone screw device for interconnecting two bone fragments under compression and which lacks the drawbacks associated with a headed bone screw and allows the bone screw device to be totally or wholly embedded within the bone substance of the patient.
  • the Herbert device has screw threads which are like handed but of different pitch on its leading and trailing ends. More specifically, the pitch of the threads at the leading end exceeds the thread pitch at the trailing end. Thus, the leading end of the screw advances at a slightly faster rate than the trailing end thereby causing the bone fragments to be brought together under some degree of compression.
  • the Herbert device While offering certain advantages over heretofore known bone screw devices, the Herbert device also has certain drawbacks. Because of the relatively small difference in the thread pitch between the leading and trailing threads, the Herbert device has a limited ability to draw the fractured bone fragments that are not already proximate to each other into compressive relationship relative to each other. Moreover, and because the thread pitch of the leading and trailing threads differs, the diameter of the leading threads must be smaller than the core of the root diameter of the trailing threads to prevent binding of the screw. Accordingly, the leading end of the Herbert screw has a lesser or weaker bone material purchase than does the trailing end. This lesser degree of bone purchase can have an adverse effect on the ability of the bone screw to remain fixed in the bone when subjected to pulling forces applied thereagainst.
  • the spindle After insertion of the spindle through both members of the screw assembly, the spindle is fixedly connected to one of the threaded members.
  • the surgeon can thread both screw members and the spindle into the bone substance of the fragments that are to be repaired or joined to each other. Thereafter, one screw member is rotated or turned in an opposite direction and relative to the other screw member to draw the bone fragments toward each other.
  • Surgical repair of fractured bones involves complicated procedures.
  • the Glisson device only serves to furthermore complicate an already complex surgical procedure. That is, with the Glisson device the surgeon must initially rotate or turn the screw assembly in a first direction and then turn only one screw member of the assembly in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.
  • initially turning both screws in a first direction and then turning one of the screw members in a second and opposite direction detracts from the ability of the screw assembly to establish and maintain a strong purchase with the bone substance or tissue of fragmented bones that are to be joined to each other.
  • Nothing is provided on the Glisson device, however, for preventing the screw members from rotating relative to each other for a prolonged time period after the screw assembly is initially inserted into the patient.
  • the interfragmentary fixation assembly of the present invention includes a first axially elongated fastener that defmes an elongated axis and has extemal threading for anchoring the first fastener into a first bone fragment and a second fastener that is attachable in non-movable relation relative to a second bone fragment.
  • the first fastener defmes a coaxial opening with internal threading ext ⁇ nding along at least a portion of the length thereof.
  • the fixation assembly further includes an elongated connector that interconnects the first and second fasteners and allows the surgeon to adjust the proper compressive force between the bone fragments as a function of "feel. "
  • the connector includes a head portion and a shank portion. The head portion of the connector is configured to accommodate a driving tool.
  • the shank portion of the connector includes extemal threading corresponding to the internal threading on the first fastener.
  • the shank portion of the connector is configured to extend endwise through the second fastener and into threaded engagement with the first fastener while the head portion of the connector operably engages with the second fastener such that rotation of the connector draws the first and second fasteners toward and into compressive relationship relative to each other.
  • the connector is prevented from inadvertently rotating relative to the fastener with which a threaded connection is established thereby mamtaining the predetermined compressive relationship between the bone fragments and thereby promoting healing and union therebetween.
  • the first fastener is formed from a bone compatible material form the class of: stainless steel, titanium, or a cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy.
  • the extemal threading on the first fastener has a substantially uniform pitch.
  • a leading end of the first fastener preferably has a pointed end configuration.
  • a trailing end of the first fastener is configured to accommodate a driving tool capable of turning the first fastener such that the extemal threading thereon threadably engages and anchors the first fastener within the bone fragment.
  • the first fastener has a reduced diameter portion axially extending from the terminal end of the threading.
  • the reduced portion of the first fastener has an axially tapering configuration along an outer surface thereof.
  • the second fastener has an axially elongated configuration with extemal threading for anchoring the second fastener within the bone substance of the second bone fragment.
  • the extemal threading on this preferred form of the invention has a substantially uniform pitch along the length thereof that corresponds to the pitch on the extemal threading of the first fastener.
  • the second fastener is formed from a bone compatible material from the class including: stainless steel, titanium, or a cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy.
  • the second fastener has a coaxial opening extending endwise therethrough for allowing the second fastener to be initially guided into generally axial alignment and operable relationship with said first fastener.
  • the trailing end of this embodiment of the second fastener is configured to accommodate a driving tool capable of turning the second fastener such that the extemal threading threadably engages and anchors the second fastener into the bone substance of the second bone fragment.
  • a driving tool capable of turning the second fastener such that the extemal threading threadably engages and anchors the second fastener into the bone substance of the second bone fragment.
  • the fastener has a first lengthwise portion that opens to a trailing end of the second fastener and a second lengthwise portion that opens to a leading end of the second fastener.
  • the second lengthwise portion of the second fastener has a configuration that is specifically sized such that only the threaded shank portion of the connector can endwise extend therethrough.
  • the second portion of the axial bore in the second fastener is specifically configured to coact with the axially tapering extension on the first fastener.
  • the configuration of the axial bore defined by the second fastener has an axially tapering configuration that complements the tapered configuration on the first fastener whereby effecting axially alignment of the fasteners and thereby the fractured bone fragments relative to each other thus promoting the healing process.
  • the second fastener comprises a member configured with a generally concave shaped section that is generally centralized between multiple prongs extending radially away from the central section.
  • An apertured hemi-spherically shaped element is adapted to be seated for rocking movement within the central section of the member.
  • the shank portion of the connector is configured to endwise extend through the member and the element into threaded engagement with the first fastener.
  • the head portion of the connector being operably engagable with the element such that rotation of the connector draws the member and the first fastener and the respective bone fragments engaged by each toward and into compressive relationship relative to each other such that minimal tissue growth is effected between the fractured bone fragments whereby enhancing union of the bone fragments to each other.
  • the central section of the member defines an enlarged opening that permits the member to rock relative to the connector and the element thereby enhancing the attachment of the prongs to the second bone fragment.
  • the second fastener as an apertured disk.
  • the apertured disk fits about the shank portion of the connector and operably engages an underside of the head portion of the connector to permit relative rotation therebetween.
  • the disk has a series of apertures that permit the second bone fragment to be secured thereto as with stitches, sutures, or the like.
  • the second fastener is configured as an elongated member having first and second ends and an axial bore for allowing the shank portion of the connector to extend endwise through the second fastener and into threaded engagement with the first fastener.
  • the member of the second fastener further includes a rigid bone fragment retainer extending radially away from the elongated member.
  • the elongated member has a generally cylindrical configuration between opposite ends thereof.
  • the elongated member of the second fastener has a fnisto-conical configuration between opposite ends thereof.
  • the interfragmentary fixation assembly of the present invention can also be utilized for arthrodesis of small joints.
  • An alternative variation for use in a joint where flexion is desired, such as a proximal interphalangeal or metacarpal joint, involves altematively configuring the second fastener as a plate-like member that fixedly attaches to the second bone fragment.
  • the plate-like member has upper and lower generally parallel surfaces with an indentation or depression having a closed margin defined by the periphery of the plate-like member and including a wall depending at an acute angle relative to the upper surface of the plate-like member.
  • the indentation or depression fits into a recess formed in the bone fragment to which the plate-like member is attached to allow smooth gliding of tendons overlying the second fastener.
  • the wall defmed by the indentation is apertured to allow the shank portion of the connector to endwise extend into threaded engagement with the internal threading on said first fastener.
  • the wall of the indentation maintains the head portion of the connector on an opposite side of the plate from the first fastener.
  • the upper and lower surfaces of the plate-like member have a generally convex configuration that generally parallels the outer surface configuration of the bone fragment to which this second fastener is attached.
  • the enlarged head portion of the connector operably engages with the second fastener thus causing the second fastener to move toward and, ultimately, into a compressive relationship with the first fastener in response to its threaded engagement with and rotation of the connector relative to the first fastener.
  • the free end of the connector's head portion is preferably configured with a socket for releasably accommodating a driving tool.
  • the connector is inhibited from inadvertently rotating relative to the fastener with which a threaded connection is established.
  • a retaining apparatus or element having a cross-sectional configuration that complements the cross-sectional configuration of the first portion of the axial bore defined by the second fastener and opening to the trailing end of the second fastener serves to engage with the connector in a manner preventing rotation of the connector relative to the fastener with which the connector has a threaded engagement.
  • the element or retainer apparatus is releasably coupled to the head portion of the connector thereby preventing rotation of the connector and, thus, mamtaining substantially constant predetermined compressive force initially established by the surgeon between the first and second fasteners so as to promote the healing process.
  • the retaining apparatus of the present invention comprises a non-metal insert preferably arranged lengthwise along the internal threading of the first fastener.
  • the connector threadably engages and moves along the length of the internal threading on the first fastener it likewise engages with the non-metal insert thereby inhibiting inadvertent rotation of the connector after the surgeon establishes that degree of compression desired between the first and second fasteners. Because the insert prevents inadvertent rotation of the connector, the first and second fasteners are maintained under the predetermined compressive force established by the surgeon thus maintaining the fractured bone pieces not only in compression but also in close proximity thereby enhancing the healing process.
  • an internal locking thread form is defined within the fastener with which the connector is threadably fastened so as to prevent the connector from inadvertently rotating relative to the fastener. That is, the internal locking thread form coacts with the conventional external threading on the connector to prevent inadvertent rotation of the connector thereby mamtaining the predetermined compression between the fasteners and, thus, the bone fragments, as a function of the surgeon's "feel". Moreover, the use of an internal locking thread form simplifies the design of the fixation assembly.
  • an interfragmentary compression kit includes a collection of first axially elongated fasteners. Each fastener in the collection has a different length from other like fasteners in. the collection. Each fastener in the collection can be further distinguished by the diameter of the threaded portion. The different shapes and sizes of the fasteners in the collection allows the surgeon to chose which particular fastener has the desired maximum purchase with the particular bone fragment being repaired.
  • the kit further includes a series of second fasteners.
  • each fastener in the series of second fasteners is different from other fasteners in the series of fasteners to provide the surgeon with the maximum ability to interchange fasteners and select the best for the particular bone fragment being repaired.
  • a set of elongated connectors are likewise arranged in the kit.
  • the connectors in the kit have different configurations from other connectors in the set. Suffice it to say, the kit of the present invention allows the surgeon to chose the appropriate fasteners and connectors for the particular surgical procedure and patient.
  • the present invention advantageously provides a biological fixation assembly that is wholly embedded within the bone substance of the patient and permits the bone fragments to be interconnected to each other with abutting surfaces of the bone fragments arranged in close proximity and under a predetermined level of compression relative to each other.
  • the interfixation assembly further includes a retaining apparatus that maintains that predetermined level of compression between the bone components thus promoting healing.
  • the fixation assembly of the present invention prevents the connector from inadvertently becoming unthreaded thus eliminating the problem of the connector backing out of the bone and potentially protruding through the skin of the patient.
  • the fixation assembly has equal pull out strength on opposite sides of the fracture.
  • Another important feature of the present invention is that the level of compression is adjustable to provide the surgeon with the proper "feel" of tightness.
  • FIGURE 1 is a schematic representation of the various bones contained in the hand of a patient
  • FIGURE 2 is an enlarged cross section view similar to FIGURE 1 showing an embodiment of a multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly according to the present invention wholly embedded within a fractured scaphoid;
  • FIGURE 3 is an enlarged elevational view of that embodiment of the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly shown in FIGURE 2;
  • FIGURE 4 is a right end view of the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly illustrated in FIGURE 3;
  • FIGURE 5 is a left end view of the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly illustrated in FIGURE 4;
  • FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of components of the fixation assembly illustrated in
  • FIGURE 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of component parts of the present invention shown in separated relation relative to each other;
  • FIGURE 8 is a sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIGURE 3;
  • FIGURE 9 is a perspective view of one component fastener forming part of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 10 is a left end view of the component fastener illustrated in FIGURE 9;
  • FIGURE 11 is a right end view of the component fastener illustrated in FIGURE 9;
  • FIGURE 12 is a sectional view taken along line 12-12 of FIGURE 10;
  • FIGURE 13 is a perspective view of another component fastener forming part of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 14 is a left end view of the component fastener illustrated in FIGURE 13;
  • FIGURE 15 is a right end view of the component fastener illustrated in FIGURE 13;
  • FIGURE 16 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line 16-16 of FIGURE 14;
  • FIGURE 17 is a perspective view, with sections being broken away, of a connector forming part of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 18 is another perspective view, with sections being broken away, of the connector illustrated in FIGURE 17;
  • FIGURE 19 is a left end view of the connector illustrated in FIGURES 17 and 18;
  • FIGURE 20 is an elevational view of the connector with a head portion thereof being shown in section as seen along line 20-20 of FIGURE 19;
  • FIGURE 21 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a retainer apparatus forming part of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 22 is an elevational view of the retainer apparatus illustrated in FIGURE 21 ;
  • FIGURE 23 is a left end view of the retainer apparatus illustrated in FIGURE 22;
  • FIGURE 24 is a right end view of the retainer apparatus illustrated in FIGURE 22;
  • FIGURE 25 is an enlarged schematic view of a fractured scaphoid bone
  • FIGURE 26 is a cross section of a fractured scaphoid having a guide passing through both scaphoid fragments;
  • FIGURE 27 is a cross section of a fractured scaphoid showing a cannulated drill arranged along and about the guide;
  • FIGURE 28 is a cross section of a fractured scaphoid showing the cannulated drill passing downwardly through the fractured scaphoid bone;
  • FIGURE 29 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid bone fragments after the cannulated drill is removed therefrom;
  • FIGURE 30 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing a cannulated tap arranged along and about the guide for insertion into a drilled bore formed by the cannulated drill;
  • FIGURE 31 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing the tap fully inserted therein;
  • FIGURE 32 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid with the tap being removed therefrom;
  • FIGURE 33 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing a fastener similar to that illustrated in FIGURES 9 through 11 being arranged for sliding movement over and along the guide;
  • FIGURE 34 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing the first fastener fully inserted in one of the bone fragments and wherein the trailing end of the first fastener is rotated by a driving tool;
  • FIGURE 35 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing a second fastener similar to that illustrated in FIGURES 13 through 16 being arranged for guided sliding movement over and along the guide;
  • FIGURE 36 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing the second fastener fully inserted in the second scaphoid bone fragment and wherein the second fastener is rotated by a driving tool;
  • FIGURE 37 is a cross sectional view similar to FIGURE 36 but showing the driving tool for the second fastener being removed therefrom;
  • FIGURE 38 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing the guide removed from the scaphoid;
  • FIGURE 39 is a perspective view, partly in section, showing the first and second fasteners of one embodiment of the present invention in axially spaced relation relative to each other;
  • FIGURE 40 is a perspective view similar to FIGURE 39, and partly shown in section, showing the first and second fasteners in partially overlapping relation relative to each other;
  • FIGURE 41 is a perspective view, partly broken away, showing a connector similar to that illustrated in FIGURES 17 through 20 passing partially endwise through the second fastener and into threaded engagement with a trailing end of the first fastener;
  • FIGURE 42 is a perspective view, partly in section, showing the connector as it serves to draw the second fastener into compressed axial relationship relative to the first fastener;
  • FIGURE 43 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing a tool for rotating the connector into threaded engagement with the first fastener;
  • FIGURE 44 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing a retainer apparatus similar to that illustrated in FIGURES 21 through 24 being inserted into operable engagement with other components of the fixation assembly of the present invention;
  • FIGURE 45 is a perspective view, partly in section, and similar to FIGURE 44 but enlarged to show the retainer apparatus being inserted into operable association with other components of the fixation assembly of the present invention
  • FIGURE 46 is a view similar to FIGURE 45, and partly in section, showing the fastener
  • FIGURE 47 is a cross section of the fractured scaphoid showing a tool for inserting the retainer apparatus into operable engagement with the other components of the fixation assembly of the present invention
  • FIGURE 48 is an enlarged perspective view showing the retainer apparatus and the headed end of the connector in axially spaced relation relative to each other with parts broken
  • FIGURE 49 is an elevational view, partially in section, of the retainer apparatus.
  • FIGURE 50 is an enlarged perspective view showing the retainer apparatus and the headed end of the connector, partially in section, arranged in partial combination relative to each other;
  • FIGURE 51 is an elevational view, partly in section, showing one form of retainer apparatus and connector in partial operable combination relative to each other;
  • FIGURE 52 is an enlarged perspective view, partly in section, showing the retainer apparatus arranged in full engagement with the headed end of the connector
  • FIGURE 53 is an elevational view, partly in section, showing the retainer apparatus schematically illustrated in FIGURE 52 in full engagement with the headed end of the connector;
  • FIGURE 54 is a perspective view, with parts broken away, showing one form of retainer apparatus in operable combination with the connector;
  • FIGURE 55 is a perspective view, similar to FIGURE 54, showing one form of retainer apparatus arranged in operable combination with the connector;
  • FIGURE 56 is a sectional view similar to FIGURE 12 but showing an alternative embodiment of retainer apparatus
  • FIGURE 57 is a longitudinal sectional view of the fixation assembly of the present invention with component parts, including the fastener shown in FIGURE 56, illustrated in axially spaced relation relative to each other and with;
  • FIGURE 58 is a perspective view of the fixation assembly schematically illustrated in FIGURE 57
  • FIGURE 59 is a longitudinal sectional view of the fixation assembly of the present invention with component parts, including the fastener shown in FIGURE 56, illustrated in assembled relation relative to each other;
  • FIGURE 60 is a view similar to FIGURES 12 and 56 but showing another alternative embodiment of retainer apparatus
  • FIGURE 61 is a perspective view of a fixation assembly according to the present invention having an alternative embodiment of a retainer apparatus
  • FIGURE 62 is an elevational view showing a second fastener, a connector, and the alternative embodiment of a retainer apparatus as schematically illustrated in FIGURE 61;
  • FIGURE 63 is a longitudinal sectional view of the fixation assembly illustrated in
  • FIGURE 61
  • FIGURE 63 A is a fragmentary and enlarged longitudinal sectional view of an alternative form of fixation assembly according to the present invention.
  • FIGURE 63B is an enlarged sectional view of the area encircled in FIGURE 63 A;
  • FIGURE 64 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the interfragmentary fixation assembly of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 65 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a second fastener and connector for the fixation assembly of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 66 is a partial sectional view of the alternative embodiment of the second fastener illustrated in FIGURE 65, with components of the second fastener being shown in spaced relation relative to each other and showing the connector adapted to pass endwise there ⁇ through;
  • FIGURE 67 is a view similar to FIGURE 66 showing the component parts of the second fastener arranged in operable combination with each other and with the connector passing therethrough; with the phantom lines showing the range of motion of the second fastener;
  • FIGURE 68 is a cross sectional view of a fractured bone showing the alternative embodiment of the interfragmentary fixation assembly illustrated in FIGURES 65 through 67 arranged in operable combination therewith;
  • FIGURE 69 is a schematic representation of the bones in a patient's hand with a particular area shown for harvesting a section of bone-ligament-bone for grafting;
  • FIGURE 70 is a schematic view similar to FIGURE 69 but showing a lunate bone channeled to accept a bone-ligament-bone graft;
  • FIGURE 71 is a schematic view similar to FIGURE 70 but showing a lunate and scaphoid bone channeled to accept a bone-ligament-bone graft;
  • FIGURE 72 is a schematic view similar to FIGURE 71 but showing K-wires inserted into lunate and scaphoid bones for movement control;
  • FIGURE 73 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the interfragmentary fixation assembly with component parts thereof shown in axially spaced relation relative to each other;
  • FIGURE 74 is a perspective view ofthe alternative embodiment of a second fastener used in combination with the fixation assembly schematically illustrated in FIGURE 73;
  • FIGURE 75 is a left end view of the alternative embodiment of fixation assembly shown in FIGURE 73;
  • FIGURE 76 is a right end view of the fixation assembly illustrated in FIGURE 73 ;
  • FIGURE 77 is a partial sectional view taken along line 77-77 of FIGURE 75;
  • FIGURE 78 is a schematic view of a bone-ligament-bone graft shown secured to components parts of alternative embodiments of the second fastener;
  • FIGURE 79 is a schematic view similar to FIGURE 72 (with K-wires omitted for clarity), but showing a first fastener of the interfragmentary fixation assembly inserted into a lunate;
  • FIGURE 80 is a view similar to FIGURE 79 with a first fastener of the fixation assembly secured into a scaphoid;
  • FIGURE 81 is a schematic view similar to FIGURE 79 showing the fixation assembly of the present invention used to partially attach the bone-ligament-bone graft to a lunate;
  • FIGURE 82 is a view similar to FIGURE 81 but showing another fixation assembly according to the present invention being used to attach an opposite portion of the bone-Iigament- bone graft to the scaphoid;
  • FIGURE 83 is a schematic view similar to FIGURE 82 but showing a bone-ligament- bone graft procedure completed;
  • FIGURE 84 is a cross section of a scaphoid with another embodiment of the fixation assembly of the present invention having a bone graft attached thereto;
  • FIGURE 85 is an end view of the scaphoid shown in FIGURE 84;
  • FIGURE 86 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the second fastener used in combination with a fixation assembly of the type illustrated in FIGURE 84 and having a connector passing endwise therethrough;
  • FIGURE 87 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment of the second fastener
  • FIGURE 88 is a bottom plan view of the second fastener illustrated in FIGURE.87;
  • FIGURE 89 is an elevational view of the second fastener illustrated in FIGURE 87;
  • FIGURE 90 is a top plan view of the second fastener illustrated in FIGURE 87;
  • FIGURES 91 through 99 are perspective views of alternative embodiments of the second fastener similar to that illustrated in FIGURE 87;
  • FIGURE 100 is a schematic view showing an alternative embodiment of the fixation assembly as used in combination with a small joint arthrodesis;
  • FIGURE 101 is an enlarged view of that area encircled in FIGURE 100;
  • FIGURE 102 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of the second fastener
  • FIGURE 103 is an elevational view of the alternative embodiment of second fastener ulustrated in FIGURE 102;
  • FIGURE 104 is a right end view of the second fastener illustrated in FIGURE 102;
  • FIGURE 105 is a sectional view taken along line 105-105 of FIGURE 103;
  • FIGURE 106 is a sectional view taken along line 106-106 of FIGURE 102.
  • FIGURE 107 is an illustration of an interfragmentary fixation kit according to one aspect of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 107 is an illustration of an interfragmentary fixation kit according to one aspect of the present invention.
  • FIGURE 1 there is schematically represented a scaphoid which is fractured into two fragments.
  • the scaphoid fracture is used as a model wherein the interfragmentary fixation assembly of the present invention can be utilized to compress the bone fragments under a predetermined force selected by the surgeon to enhance healing thereof.
  • the present invention is equally applicable to other situations beyond repair of the scaphoid as will be described below.
  • One embodiment of the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly is shown in
  • FIGURE 2 as being wholly embedded within the scaphoid and is represented in its entirety by reference numeral 10. As illustrated in FIGURE 2, a leading portion of the fixation assembly 10 is secured or attached to the bone substance of the proximal fragment 12 of the scaphoid while a trailing portion of the fixation assembly 10 is secured or attached to the bone substance of a distal fragment 14 of the scaphoid.
  • the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly 10 includes first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively.
  • the first fastener 20 is attachable in nonmovable relation to the first bone fragment 12 and the second fastener 30 is attachable in nonremovable relation to the second bone fragment 14.
  • the first fastener 20 comprises an elongated member 21 having extemal threading 22 extending axially rearwardly from a generally pointed end 23 thereof.
  • the first fastener 20 has a trailing end 24 that cooperates and combines with the second fastener 30 to affect alignment of the fractured bone fragments 12 and 14 (FIGURE 2).
  • the second fastener 30 comprises an elongated member 31 having extemal threading 32 extending axially forwardly from a trailing end 34 thereof.
  • the second fastener 30 has a leading end 33 that combines with the first fastener 20 to affect alignment of the fractured bone fragments 12 and 14 (FIGURE 2).
  • the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly 10 further includes any elongated threaded connector 40 and an apparatus 50 for inhibiting inadvertent or free turning rotation of the connector 40.
  • the connector 40 serves to operably interconnect the first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively, under a predetermined compressive force selected by the surgeon.
  • the compressive force selected by the surgeon is developed as a result of the surgeon's "feel" as the first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively and the bone fragments 12 and 14 connected to each fastener are drawn into confronting relation relative to each other.
  • the fixation assembly 10 is further configured to maintain the compressive force between the first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively, and the bone fragments attached to each thereby preventing inadvertent turning movement of the connector so as to promote union between the bone fragments and healing of the fracture.
  • the elongated member 21 of the first fastener 20 is preferably fabricated from a biocompatible material selected from a class comprised of: titanium, stainless steel, or a cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy.
  • the extemal threading 22 extends axially lengthwise of member 21 and has a uniform pitch between leading and trailing ends thereof. In the illustrated embodiment of the fastener 20, the extemal threading 22 axially extends for a distance equal to about one-half the distance between the proximal and distal ends 23 and 24, respectively, of member 21.
  • member 21 defines an axial bore 25 that extends through member 21 and opens to the leading and trailing ends 23 and 24, respectively, thereof.
  • bore 25 defines conventional internal threading 26 which is preferably of uniform pitch.
  • the internal threading 26 axially extends from the trailing end 24 toward the leading end 23 for at least a portion of the length of the axial bore 25.
  • the internal threading 26 extends along the entire axial length of bore 25.
  • member 21 further defines an axial lengthwise section or portion 27 having a diameter which is less than or reduced from the diameter of the threaded portion 22 and extending axially and forwardly from the trailing end 24 of the fastener 20.
  • this reduced diameter portion 27 of fastener 20 has an axially tapered configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the reduced portion 27 of member 21 increases as a function of the distance measured from the trailing end 24 of the fastener 20.
  • Fastener 20 is further configured to allow a suitable driving tool (FIGURE 34) to be releasably connected to the fastener 20 to affect the rotation thereof.
  • a suitable driving tool FIGURE 34
  • the trailing end 24 of member 21 is configured with a transverse slot 28 that releasably accommodates a flat tip of a screwdriver or other suitable tool.
  • other tool receiving configurations would likewise suffice as long as such configurations are capable of releasably accommodating a driving tool capable of turning the first fastener 20 such that the extemal threading 22 threadably engages with the respective bone fragment thereby anchoring the fastener to the respective bone fragment.
  • the elongated member 31 of the second fastener 30 is preferably fabricated from a biocompatible material preferably selected from the class comprised of: titanium, stainless steel, or a cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy.
  • member 31 of the second fastener defines an axial bore 35 that extends through member 31 and opens to the leading and trailing ends 33 and 34 thereof.
  • the extemal threading 32 extending along the axial length of member 31 has a uniform pitch between leading and trailing ends thereof.
  • the extemal threading 32 extending axially along the length of the second fastener 30 is like-handed and generally corresponds to the pitch of the threading of the extemal threading 22 extending axially along the first fastener 20.
  • the extemal threading 32 axially extends for a distance equal to about one-half the length between distal and proximal ends 33 and 34, respectively, of the second fastener 30. Suffice it to say, that the extemal threading 22, 32 on the fasteners 20, 30, respectively, has a relatively course pitch such that a substantive holding force or purchase will be developed when the fasteners are threadably secured within the respective bone fragments.
  • the axial bore 35 defined by member 31 includes a counterbore portion 36 extending axially away from the proximal or leading end 33 of fastener 30.
  • the counterbore portion 36 has a larger inside diameter than is the inside diameter of bore 35 thus defining an annular shoulder 37 axially spaced a predetermined distance inwardly from the leading end 33 of fastener 30.
  • the counterbore portion 36 of bore 35 has an inside diameter generally equal to the outside diameter of the reduced diameter portion 27 of the first fastener 20.
  • the counterbore portion 36 has an axially tapering configuration that compliments the axially tapering configuration on the reduced diameter portion 27 of the first fastener 20.
  • the axial bore 35 defined by member 31 also includes a counterbore portion 38 extending axially inwardly from the distal or trailing end 34 of fastener 30.
  • the counterbore portion 38 has a specific cross-sectional shape extending the axial length thereof.
  • the counterbore portion 38 has a generally hexagonal cross- sectional shape extending inwardly from the distal or trailing end 34 of the second fastener 30.
  • the cross-sectional shape of the counterbore 38 could be other than hexagonal, such as triangular, square, octagonal or pentagonal without detracting from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
  • the counterbore portion 38 is configured to allow a suitable driving tool (FIGURE 36) to be releasably connected to the fastener 30 such that the driving tool is capable of turning the second fastener 30 such that the extemal threading 32 threadably engages with the second bone fragment 14 of the scaphoid. Because of the different cross-sectional configurations of bore 35 and counterbore 38, however, a shoulder 39 (FIGURE 16) is defined therebetween.
  • One form of connector 40 is illustrated in FIGURES 17 through 20. As shown, the connector includes an enlarged head portion 42 and an axially elongated externally and conventionally threaded shank portion 44.
  • the extemal threading on the shank portion 44 of connector 40 has a pitch that corresponds to the pitch of the intemal threading 26 extending along at least a portion of the bore 25 defined by the first fastener 20.
  • the diameter of the shank portion 44 is specifically sized to fit endwise through the smallest diameter portion of the axial bore 35 defmed by the second fastener 30 so as to allow the proximal end of the shank portion 44 of connector 40 to threadably engage with the intemal threading 26 of the axial bore 25 of the first fastener 20.
  • the head portion 42 is sized to endwise move through the counterbore portion 38 of the second fastener and engage the shoulder 39 that acts as a stop for the connector 40.
  • the head portion 42 of connector 40 defines a blind socket 46 that opens to a distal end of the head portion 42 of connector 40 and is configured to releasably accommodate a driving tool (FIGURE 43) capable of imparting turning movement to the connector 40.
  • the blind socket 46 of connector 40 has a hexagonal cross-sectional configuration although other like configurations would equally suffice.
  • the head portion 42 of the connector 40 includes at least one finger 47 that axially projects through the blind socket 46 and toward the open end thereof.
  • the connector 40 and as shown in FIGURE 19, three equally spaced and axially extending fingers 47 are provided in the blind socket 46 and project toward the open end thereof.
  • the head portion 42 of the connector 40 preferably further includes an annular channel 48 having a diameter that is greater than the blind socket opening 46.
  • the annular channel 48 defmes an outer surface 49 that is spaced a predetermined distance from the blind or closed end of cavity 46.
  • the means for retaining the connector 40 against rotation and thereby maintaining the predetermined compressive relationship between the fasteners 20, 30 and, thus, the bone fragments secured to each, can take a myriad of different forms.
  • the retainer apparatus 50 is arranged in operable combination with and holds the connector 40 against rotation thereby maintaining the predetermined compressive relationship between the fasteners 20, 30.
  • FIGURES 21 through 24 One form of retainer apparatus 50 is illustrated in FIGURES 21 through 24.
  • the retainer apparatus 50 includes an element 52 formed from a biocompatible material selected from the class comprised of: nylon or an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene.
  • element 52 of retainer apparatus 50 includes a body portion 54 with a cross-sectional configuration that generally corresponds to the cross-sectional configuration of the counterbore 38 in the second fastener 30. Suffice it to say, the body portion 54 of element 52 has a cross-sectional configuration that operates in combination with the cross-sectional configuration of the counterbore 38 to prevent rotation of the element 52 relative to the second fastener 30.
  • element 52 further includes an axial extension 56 that projects from a proximal end thereof. At its free end, the axial extension 56 defines at least one finger 57 that is adapted to cooperate and combine with finger 47 defined in the blind socket 46 of the connector 40.
  • the axial extension 56 of element 52 includes three equally spaced fingers 57 that project from the free end of the axial extension 56. In this particular illustrated form of the retainer apparatus 50, the axial extension 56
  • annular ring 58 having an outside diameter that is generally equal to the inside diameter of the channel 48 of connector 40.
  • the annular ring 58 on the axial extension 56 is formed from a pliable material that is biocompatible with the bone and tissue substance wherein the fixation assembly of the present invention is adapted for use. Suffice it
  • annular ring 58 is formed of a material that allows the ring to compress and subsequently snap into the channel 48 and combine with surface 49 of channel 48 to prevent inadvertent axial displacement of the element 52 toward the trailing end 34 of the second fastener 30.
  • element 52 further defines a threaded bore 59
  • FIGURE 25 the proximal and distal bone fragments 12 and 14, respectively, of scaphoid 10 are schematically shown with a fracture extending generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the scaphoid 10.
  • FIGURE 26 the bone
  • fragments 12 and 14 are drilled to define a bore 62 extending through both fragments and a guide 64 is tightly inserted into the bore 62.
  • a conventional cannulated drill 66 is axially fitted over and slides along the guide 64. As shown in FIGURE 28, the drill 66 is operated to provide a bore 68 that passes through the bone substance of fragment 14 and for a substantial distance into the bone substance of fragment 12. Because the drill 66 moves endwise along guide 64, that portion of bore 68 defined by fragment 14 is axially aligned with that portion of bore 68 defined by fragment 12. After the bore 68 is provided, drill 66 is removed from the guide 64 as shown in FIGURE 29. Next, a conventional cannulated tap 70 is arranged along the guide 64 as shown in FIGURE 30.
  • tap 70 is passed along the guide 64, as shown in FIGURE 31 , to provide intemal threading 72 to the bore 68.
  • the intemal threading 72 extends through the bone substance of fragment 14 and for a substantial axial distance of bone fragment 12.
  • the intemal threading 72 provided by tap 70 is of like hand and corresponds to the extemal threading 22 and 32 provided on fasteners 20 and 30, respectively.
  • the first fastener 20 is next inserted into the fractured scaphoid. As shown in FIGURE 33, the bore 25 in the elongated member 21 allows fastener 20 to be guided and vertically positioned proximate to the end of fragment 14. Thereafter, a suitable tool is used to engage the transverse slot 28 at the distal end of member 21. The surgeon rotates the fastener 20 with the tool whereby the extemal threading 22 of member 21 engages and follows the interior threading 72 in the bone fragments 12 and 14. As shown in FIGURE 34, the surgeon rotates the first fastener 20 until the entire fastener 20 is thready buried within the bone substance of the first fragment 12. Then, the surgeon removes the tool used to drive the first fastener 20.
  • the second fastener 30 is inserted into the fractured scaphoid and into operable combination with the first fastener 20.
  • the bore 35 in the elongated member 31 allows the fastener 30 to be vertically guided and positioned proximate the end of fragment 14.
  • a suitable tool is inserted into the cross- sectioned counterbore 38 of fastener 30 at the distal end thereof. The surgeon rotates the fastener 30 with the tool whereby the extemal threading 31 engages and follows the intemal threading 72 in bone fragment 14 until the entire fastener 30 is thready buried within the bore substance of the second fragment 14. Thereafter, the surgeon removes the tool used to drive the second fastener 30 as shown in FIGURE 37.
  • FIGURE 39 schematically represents the axial alignment of the first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively.
  • the pointed end 23 is arranged to initially engage the intemal threading 72 in the bone substance thereby facilitating threaded engagement of the fastener 20 within the bone substance and with the reduced diameter portion 27 preferably projecting axially toward the open end of bore 68.
  • the open ended counterbore portion 36 of the second fastener 30 is then inserted first into the bore 68 in the bone fragment.
  • the counterbore portion 36 of fastener 30 fits over and into operable combination with the reduced diameter portion 27 of fastener 20 to effect axial alignment of the fasteners 20 and 30 and the bone fragments 12 and 14.
  • the axially tapering configuration on the reduced diameter portion 27 of fastener 20 cooperates with the complimentary tapered configuration at the leading end of the counterbore portion 36 to facilitate and act as a cam to effect axial alinement of the first and second fasteners 20 and 30 and the bone fragments 12 and 14 fastened thereto, respectively.
  • the configurations at the trailing and leading ends of the first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively could be reversed without detracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
  • FIGURES 41 and 42 after the first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively, are threaded into the bone substance of the scaphoid, the connector 40, as shown in FIGURES 17 through 20, is inserted into combination with the fasteners 20, 30.
  • the shank portion 42 of connector 40 endwise passes first through the counterbore portion 38, then through bore 35, and finally through the counterbore portion 36 of fastener 30 and, ultimately, into threaded engagement with the intemal threading 26 axially extending along a least portion of the length of the bore 25 of fastener 20.
  • a suitable tool releasably fits into the open end of the blind socket 46 to turn the connector 40 relative to the first and second fasteners 20 and 30.
  • the head end or portion 42 of connector 40 is larger than bore 35 defined by fastener 30 thus preventing passage of the head portion 42 past the shoulder 39 defined by the second fastener 30.
  • Any gap or separation existing between the bone fragments 12, 14 is narrowed by the surgeon rotating the connector 40. That is, with the head portion 42 of connector 40 in operable engagement with the shoulder 39 of the second fastener 30, continued rotation of the connector 40 will cause and result in the first and second fasteners 20 and 30, respectively, and the bone fragments attached to each being drawn toward each other.
  • the bone fragments 12, 14 are preferably drawn into abutting relationship under a predetermined compression relative to each. Since the fasteners 20 and 30 are already fixed in the bone substance, the ability to rotate the connector 40 allows the surgeon an appropriate "feel" when the bone fragments 12, 14 are drawn into a predetermined and proper compressive relationship relative to each other.
  • a preferred form of retainer apparatus 50 is placed in operable combination with the fastener 30 to maintain the predetermined and proper level of compression between the fasteners 20, 30 and the bone fragments 12, 14 to promote the healing process.
  • the element 52 of the retainer apparatus 50 is initially and slidably positioned into the counterbore portion 38 of the fastener 30 with the axial extension 56 and fingers 57 directed toward the connector 40.
  • a suitable tool is releasably connected to the element 52 to facilitate axial placement of the retainer apparatus
  • FIGURES 50 and 51 The relationship of the fingers 47 on the connector to the fingers 57 on the retaining apparatus is further illustrated in FIGURES 50 and 51.
  • the element 52 of retainer apparatus 50 is further axially moved toward the connector until the annular ring 58 resiliently snaps into the channel
  • the retainer apparatus 50 is prevented from inadvertently moving away from the connector 40 while concomitantly preventing the connector 40 from turning thereby maintaining the predetermined level of compression between the fasteners 20 and 30 and the fragments 12 and 14, respectively, carried thereby to promote the healing process.
  • the retainer apparatus 50 is maintained in operable combination with the connector 40, as shown in FIGURES 54 and 55, until a suitable tool is used to purposefully remove the retainer apparatus 50.
  • the releasable tool used to position the retainer apparatus 50 is threadably engaged with the threaded bore 59 (FIGURES 22 and 23) defmed by the element 52. Forcible retraction of the tool will likewise cause the retainer ring 58 to disengage from the channel 48 and thereby allow the retainer apparatus 50 to be removed from operable association with the connector 40.
  • FIGURE 56 schematically illustrates an alternative form of retainer apparatus 150.
  • this alternative retainer apparatus 150 comprises an insert 152 arranged axially along and in combination with the intemal threading 26 of the first fastener 20.
  • the insert 152 is formed from a biocompatible material preferably chosen from the class consisting of: nylon, or an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene.
  • the alternative form of retainer apparatus is preferably positioned proximate to the trailing end 24 of the first fastener 20 and in combination with a trailing end of the intemal threading 26.
  • the second fastener 30 of the multi-piece interfragmentary fixation assembly of the present invention remains substantially the same as discussed above.
  • the alternative retainer apparatus 150 allows a conventional socket headed screw or connector 140 to be used in combination with the fasteners 20 and 30.
  • the connector 140 includes an enlarged head 142 and a shank portion 144 with extemal conventional threading that corresponds to the intemal threading 26 extending along the axial bore 25 of the first fastener 20.
  • the connector 1 0 functions in an analogous manner to that described above with respect to connector 40.
  • the extemal threading on the shank portion 144 of fastener 140 engages with the retainer apparatus 150 in a manner preventing inadvertent rning of the connector 140 and thereby maintaining the compressive force preselected by the surgeon between the fasteners 20 and 30 to promote the healing process.
  • FIGURE 60 schematically illustrates another alternative form of retainer apparatus 250.
  • this alternative retainer apparatus 250 comprises an annular insert 252 arranged axially along and in combination with the intemal threading 26 of the first fastener 20.
  • the annular insert 252 is preferably formed from a biocompatible material preferably chosen from the class consisting of: nylon, or an ultra high molecular weight polyethylene.
  • the retainer apparatus 250 functions in an analogous manner to that described above regarding the alternative form of retainer apparatus 150. Thus, no further detailed description need be provided therefor for a complete understanding of its function and operation.
  • the retainer apparatus 350 comprises an element 352 including a body portion 354 with a cross-sectional configuration generally corresponding to the cross- sectional configuration of the counter bore 38 in the second fastener 30. Suffice it to say, the body portion 354 of element 352 has a cross-sectional configuration that operates in combination with the cross- sectional configuration of the counterbore 38 to prevent rotation of the element 352 relative to the second fastener 30.
  • element 352 of the retainer apparatus 350 includes a retaining ring 358 that is carried by the body 354 of element 352.
  • retainer apparatus 350 is adapted to operate in combination with a conventional socket headed screw or connector 340.
  • the connector 340 functions in an analogous manner to that discussed above with respect to connector 40 except that connector 340 does not require the specifically shaped blind socket portion as does connector 40.
  • the second fastener 30 defines an annular channel 348 that is spaced a predetermined distance from the shoulder 39 defined by the second fastener.
  • the predetermined distance separating channel 348 and shoulder 39 is equal to the axial length of the headed portion 342 of connector 340 and the axial length the ring 358 is disposed from a leading edge of the body portion 354 of element 352.
  • the annular ring 358 on the element 352 is formed from a pliable material that is biocompatible with the bone and tissue substance wherein the fixation assembly of the present invention is adapted for use.
  • the annular ring 358 is formed from a material that allows the ring 358 to compress and subsequently snap into and combine with the channel 348 in a manner preventing inadvertent axial displacement of the element 352 toward the trailing end of the fastener 30. Accordingly, once the surgeon selects the predetermined level of compression between the fasteners, the retainer apparatus 350 is inserted until the annular ring 358 snaps into the annular channel 348 thereby preventing the fastener 30 from turning with the second fastener 30 and thereby mamtaining the predetermined level of compression between the fasteners 20 and 30.
  • element 352 of retainer apparatus 350 further defines
  • the retainer apparatus 350 is maintained in operable combination with the second fastener 30 and prevents inadvertent rotation of the fastener 340 until a suitable tool removes the retainer apparatus 350 from association with the connector 340.
  • a releasable tool is threadably engaged with the threaded bore 359 defined by the element 352. Forcible retraction of the tool will likewise cause the retainer ring 358 to disengage from the channel 348 and thereby allow the retainer apparatus 352 to be removed from the interfragmentary fixation assembly 10.
  • FIGURE 63A illustrates still another alternative configuration for retaining the fasteners 20 and 30 of the fixation assembly 10 in a preset or predetermined compressive relationship
  • This alternative configuration includes the conventional socket headed screw or connector 340 mentioned above. As mentioned above regarding connector 140, the
  • connector 340 includes an enlarged head portion 342 and a shank portion 344 with conventional extemal threading 346 extending axially therealong.
  • the connector 340 functions in an analogous manner to that described above with respect to connectors 40 and 140.
  • an intemal locking thread form 326 (FIGURE 63B) is defmed along at least a portion of the axial length of the bore 25 defined by the first fastener
  • the intemal locking thread form 326 extends an axial lengthwise distance from the trailing end 24 of member 21 and along the bore 25 of fastener 20. It should be appreciated, the intemal locking thread form 326 can extend the entire or a distance somewhat less than the entire length of bore 25. In a most preferred form of the invention, the intemal locking device 326 is sold under the trademark SPIRALOCK by Detroit Tool Industries and offers preload locking between the connector and threadably interconnected fastener through a unique intemal thread configuration.
  • the unidirectional intemal thread form 326 has an added 30° wedge ramp 327 at the root of each intemal thread defined by fastener 20.
  • the intemal thread from 326 still mates with the standard or conventional 60° threading on the extemal threading 346 of the shank portion 344 of connector 340.
  • the intemal thread form or configuration 326 defmed by fastener 20 locks the standard or conventional male threading 346 extending along the length of shank 344 of fastener 340 tightly against the wedge ramp 327 thereby preventing movement of the connector 340 relative to fastener 20 and thereby mamtaining the predetermined compressive relationship between the fasteners 20, 30.
  • the crests of the conventional extemal threading 346 are drawn tightly against the ramp surfaces 327 of the thread form 326 thus eliminating radial clearances and creating a continuous spiral, line contact along the entire length of thread engagement.
  • intemal thread form 326 for preventing the connector 340 from rotating following establishment of the predetermined compressive relationship between fastener 20, 30 furthermore yields the surgeon with the ability to "feel" the proper relationship n the identical fashion the surgeon is accustomed to working with using other arrangements.
  • other intemal thread forms could likewise be used along the length of axial bore 25 and the extemal threading 346 of connector 340 without detracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
  • an intemal thread form or configuration 326 for preventing inadvertent rotation of the connector used to join the fasteners of the present invention offers several benefits.
  • the intemal thread form 326 is a tested and proven technique which works well under severe conditions.
  • the intemal thread form 326 simplifies the fixation assembly design.
  • a conventional connector 340 is used to draw the fasteners 20, 30 into a predetermined compressive relationship relative to each other.
  • the design of fastener 30 is simplified. That is, the counterbore 38 defined by fastener 30 is a simplified counterbore having no specific cross- sectional configuration thereto.
  • an intemal thread form is preferably used to inhibit rotation of the connector 340 relative to the fasteners thereby mamtaining the preselected compressive force between the fasteners 20, 30 and, thus, the bone fragments secured to each fastener.
  • FIGURES 3 through 8 wherein two axially elongated fasteners are maintained in a compressive and end-to-end relationship relative to each other. Accordingly, the present invention contemplates altemative forms of the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly.
  • FIGURES 64 through 68 An altemative form of the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly is illustrated in FIGURES 64 through 68 and is generally designated by reference numeral 400.
  • the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly 400 functions to maintain bone fragments 412 and 414 in compressive relationship relative to each other.
  • the elements of this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly 400 that are identical or functionally analogous to those in earlier embodiments discussed above are designated by reference numerals identical to those used above with the exception that this altemative embodiment reference numerals are in the 400 series.
  • this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly 400 includes a first axially elongated fastener 420 secured to bone fragment 412, a second fastener 430 that is secured to bone fragment 414, a connector 440 that serves to maintain the first and second fasteners 420 and 430 and the bone fragments 412 and 414 attached to each, respectively, in compressive relationship relative to each other, and an apparatus 450 for mamtaining the compressive relationship between the first and second fasteners 420 and 430, respectively, and the bone fragments attached to each.
  • the first fastener 420 and the connector 440 are substantially similar to that embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGURES 56 through 59.
  • this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly further includes a retainer apparatus similar to that illustrated in FIGURES 56 or 60.
  • the apparatus 450 for holding the connector 440 against rotation could involve an intemal thread form similar to that disclosed in FIGURES 63A and 63B and discussed above in detail. Accordingly, no further detailed description need be provided therefor for a complete understanding of those features of the invention.
  • the alternative embodiment of the second fastener 430 is best illustrated in FIGURES 65 through 67.
  • the second fastener 430 comprises a member 431 and element 432 arranged in operable combination relative to each other.
  • Member 431 of a fastener 430 is configured with a generally concave shaped and apertured section 433 that is generally centralized between a plurality of prongs 434 that project radially outward and away from the central section 433.
  • the second fastener 430 is illustrated as having four prongs 434 extending therefrom, it will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that less than four prongs could radially extend away from the central section 433 of the fastener without departing or detracting from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
  • the central section 433 defmes a hemi ⁇ spherical shaped recess with an aperture 435 opening thereto.
  • Element 432 likewise has a hemi ⁇ spherical shape that complements the concave shaped section 433.
  • element 432 defines an aperture 436 and element 432 is sized to permit the externally threaded shank portion 444 of fastener 440 to pass endwise therethrough while preventing the enlarged headed portion
  • element 432 sits within the apertured central section 433 of member 431 and is permitted to rockingly move within the socket defined by element 431.
  • the first fastener 420 is initially threaded into the bone substance of bone fragment 412 and the extemal threading 422 fixedly maintains the fastener 420 in place.
  • the connector 440 is then passed endwise through the element 432 and member 431 of the second fastener and into threaded engagement with the internal threading 426 axially extending along at least a portion of the length of the bore 425 of fastener 420.
  • the head end 442 of connector 440 is larger than the bore 436 defined in element 432 of fastener 430. Any gap or separation existing between the bone fragments 412 and 414 is narrowed by the surgeon rotating the connector 440. That is, with the head portion 442 of connector 440 in operable engagement with the element 432 of the second fastener 430, continued rotation of the connector 440 will cause and result in the first and second fasteners 420 and 430, respectively, and the bone fragments attached to each being drawn toward each other.
  • the bone fragments 412 and 414 are preferably drawn into abutting relationship under predetermined compression relative to each other.
  • the ability to rotate the connector 440 allows the surgeon an appropriate "feel" when the bone fragments 412, 414 are drawn into a predetermined proper compressive relationship relative to each other.
  • the predetermined and proper compressive relationship between the fasteners 420 and 430 and, thereby, the fragments 412 and 414 relative to each other is maintained by preventing the connector 440 from inadvertently turning as through a retainer apparatus similar to that described in detail above.
  • the aperture 435 in member 431 is sized and configured such that the member 431 of the second fastener 430 is permitted to rock about the elongated axis of connector 440.
  • the prongs 434 extending radially outwardly from the central section 431 of member 430 are better able to graspingly secure to the bone fragment 414.
  • the prong configuration of member 431 readily lends itself to having a ligament L attached thereto.
  • the scaphoid will not fracture but instead a series of ligamentous damage can occur about the wrist.
  • the volar wrist ligaments certainly contribute to instability about the wrist.
  • the dorsal scapholunate interosseous ligament is a primary constraining force that when ruptured leads to disassociation between the scaphoid and lunate bones. Failure to reconstmct this ligament can lead to the development of progressive arthritis about the wrist.
  • Another altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly of the present invention readily lends itself to replacement and/or repair of ligaments between adjacent bones.
  • FIGURE 69 shows the bones of a patient's hand with a particular area shown for harvesting a bone-iigament-bone for grafting.
  • the surgeon configures the lunate bone LB to accept the graft as shown in FIGURE 70.
  • the surgeon then conditions or configures the scaphoid bone SB to accept the graft as shown in FIGURE 71.
  • conventional K-wires are then inserted into the lunate bone and scaphoid bone for movement control.
  • FIGURES 73 through 77 is designated generally by reference numeral 500.
  • the fixation assembly 500 functions to secure the bone-ligament-bone graft to the lunate bone LB and the scaphoid bone SB.
  • the elements of this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly 500 that are identical or functionally analogous to other components mentioned above are designated by reference numerals identical to those used above with the exception that this embodiment reference numerals are in the 500 series.
  • this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly 500 includes a first axially elongated fastener 520, a second fastener 530, a connector 540 and a retaining apparatus 550 (FIGURE 77).
  • the first fastener 520, the connector 540 and the retaining apparatus 550 may each be similar to those similar components illustrated in FIGURES 56 through 59 and discussed in detail above.
  • an intemal thread form similar to that disclosed in FIGURES 63 A and 63B and discussed in detail above could likewise be used to prevent rotation of the connector 540 without detracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, no further detailed description need be provided therefor at this time.
  • the second fastener 530 is formed from a biocompatible material to the bone tissue wherein the fastener is used and preferably from the class consisting of: titanium, stainless steel, or a cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy.
  • the second fastener 530 comprises a generally planar member 531 having upper and lower generally parallel surfaces 532 and 533.
  • the planar member 531 also defines a preferably centralized through bore 534 that permits a shank portion 544 of connector 540 to pass endwise therethrough and is specifically sized to prohibit the head portion 542 of the connector 540 from passing therethrough.
  • the second fastener 530 is further provided with a plurality of holes or apertures 535 arranged in a generally circumferential relation relative to the centralized through bore 534.
  • the bone-ligament-bone graft is fixedly attached to the second fastener 530.
  • a bore is provided in each bone fragment of the bone-ligament- bone graft such that access is provided to the head portion 542 of each connector 540.
  • sutures or other suitable fastening apparatus passes through the apertures 535 in the second fastener and about the bone of the bone-ligament-bone graft thereby securing a bone fragment to the second fastener.
  • the first fastener 520 of the fixation assembly is threadably secured within the bone substance of the lunate bone.
  • a first fastener 520 of this embodiment of the fixation assembly is threadably secured within the bone substance of the scaphoid bone.
  • the pitch of the threads on the first fastener 520 prohibit the fastener from becoming dislodged from the bone substance of the respective bone fragment.
  • the bone-ligament-bone graft is then secured within the channel or configuration of the lunate/ scaphoid bone.
  • a suitable tool is used to threadably secure the bone graft to the first fastener in the lunate bone.
  • such tool includes a flexible shank portion. Because the second fastener is fixedly attached to the bone fragment, the rotating action of the connector 540 forcibly draws the bone fragment into the channelled configuration of the lunate bone LB.
  • FIGURE 82 the other bone fragment is secured in the channelled configuration of the scaphoid bone in a similar manner.
  • FIGURE 83 schematically illustrates the bone-ligament-bone graft secured in place between the lunate bone LB and scaphoid bone SB.
  • FIGURES 84 and 85 Still another embodiment of the multipiece fixation assembly according to the present invention is schematically illustrated in FIGURES 84 and 85.
  • the fixation assembly is utilized to affix a bone plug 614 to a scaphoid bone 612.
  • FIGURES 84 and 85 This altemative embodiment of fixation assembly is schematically illustrated in FIGURES 84 and 85 and is designated generally therein by reference numeral 600.
  • the fastener assembly 600 functions to maintain the bone plug 614 in a proper compressive relationship relative to the scaphoid bone fragment 612.
  • the elements of this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly that are identical or functionally analogous to those in earlier embodiments discussed above are designated by reference numerals identical to those used above with the exception that the reference numerals in this altemative embodiment are in the 600 series.
  • this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly 600 includes a first axially elongated fastener 620, a second fastener 630, a connector 640 and a retainer apparatus (not shown).
  • the first fastener 620, connector 640, and retainer apparatus (not shown) can be like those elements schematically illustrated in FIGURES 56 through 59.
  • an intemal thread form similar to that disclosed in FIGURES 63 A and 63B and discussed in detail above could likewise be used to prevent rotation of the connector 640 without detracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
  • the alternative embodiment of the second fastener 630 is illustrated in FIGURES 86 through 90.
  • the second fastener 630 comprises a member 631 defining a coaxial bore extending therethrough and having a plurality of prongs extending radially outwardly away from member
  • member 631 of fastener 630 has an axially elongated frusto-conically shaped configuration.
  • the prongs 634 extend from that end of member having a larger diameter.
  • Member 631 of fastener 630 is formed from a biocompatible material preferably from a class of materials comprised of: titanium, stainless steel, or a cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy. Altematively, an outer surface of the member comprising fasteners 620 and 630 can be treated in a well known manner to promote bone growth.
  • the throughbore or aperture 632 defined by member 631 of the second fastener 630 is specifically sized relative to the connector 640.
  • the throughbore 632 is sized to allow an externally threaded shank portion 644 of connector 640 to extend axially through the second fastener 630 and into threaded engagement with the intemal threading (not shown) of the first fastener 620.
  • the head portion 642 of the connector 640 is prohibited, however, from passing endwise through the second fastener 630.
  • the bone plug 614 is placed into the configured channel of the scaphoid bone 612. Thereafter, the first fastener 620 is secured within the bone substance of the bone fragment 612 in a manner discussed in detail above. Thereafter, the threaded connector 640 is passed through the second fastener and threadably engaged with the first fastener. As will be appreciated, rotation of the connector 640 will draw the second fastener 630 toward the first fastener 620 thereby allowing the prong 634 on the second fastener
  • FIGURES 91 through 99 schematically illustrate other forms of fasteners that would be equally applicable for use with this embodiment of the invention.
  • Another altemative embodiment of the present invention is likewise useful regarding repair of a small joint such as in the finger of a patient. As shown in FIGURE 100, this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly of the present invention is used to secure bone 712 to bone 714 under a predetermined compressive force.
  • FIGURES 100 and 101 an altemative embodiment of the multi-piece fixation assembly according to the present invention is illustrated in FIGURES 100 and 101 and is designated generally by reference numeral 700.
  • the fixation assembly 700 is similar, and functions in a similar manner, to the other embodiments of the fixation assembly described above.
  • the elements of this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly 700 that are identical or functionally analogous to those of other embodiments of the fixation assembly are designated by reference numerals identical to those used for the altemative embodiments with the exception that this embodiment reference numerals are in the 700 series.
  • this altemative embodiment of the fixation assembly 700 includes the first axially elongated fastener 720 secured to bone 712, a second fastener 730 fixedly attached to bone 714, a connector 740 for interconnecting the first and second fasteners 720 and 730, respectively, and a retaining apparatus (not shown).
  • the first fastener 720, the connector 740 and the retainer apparatus (not shown) used in combination with this embodiment of the invention are substantially similar to those components schematically illustrated in FIGURES 56 through 59 and discussed in detail above.
  • a thread form similar to that disclosed in FIGURES 63A and 63B and discussed in detail above could be used to prevent inadvertent rotation of the connector 740 without detracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, no further detail description need be provided therefor for complete understanding of the present invention.
  • the alternatemative embodiment of the second fastener 730 is illustrated in FIGURES 102 through 106.
  • the second fastener 730 is formed from a bone compatible material preferably chosen from the class consisting of: titanium, stainless steel, or a cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy and is attachable to an exterior of the second bone 714 (FIGURE 101).
  • the second fastener 730 comprises an elongated and narrowed plate ⁇ like member 731.
  • Member 731 has upper and lower generally parallel surfaces 732 and 733, respectively.
  • the plate-like member 731 further includes an indentation 734 preferably extending longitudinally of member 731 and has a closed margin defined within the periphery
  • the depending wall 736 defines an aperture 737.
  • the aperture 737 defined by the plate-like member 731 is sized such that the shank portion 744 (FIGURE 101) of the connector 740 is permitted to endwise pass therethrough.
  • the aperture 737 in plate- like member 731 is sized such that the head portion 742 (FIGURE 101) of the connector 740 is prevented from passing endwise therethrough. Instead, the head portion 742 of connector 740 abuts with the depending wall 736 of the plate- like member 731.
  • the first fastener 720 is secured in the bone substance of bone 712.
  • the extemal threading 722 on the first fastener 720 is sufficient to prevent the fastener 720 from becoming dislodged from the bone substance when subjected to axial forces applied thereagainst.
  • the surgeon configures the bone fragment 714 to accept the indentation 734 defined by the plate-like member 731. More specifically, the bone 714 is configured with a step against which wall 736 is permitted to abut. Thereafter, the shank portion 744 of connector 740 passes through bore 737 and into threaded engagement with the first fastener 720.
  • the head end or portion 742 of connector 740 is larger than bore 737 defined by depending wall 736 of indentation 734 thus preventing passage of the head portion 742 of connector 740 past the wall 736 of plate-like member 731. Any gap or separation existing between the bone 712 and 714 is narrowed by the surgeon rotating the connector 740.
  • the head portion 742 of connector 740 in operable engagement with wall 736 of plate-like member 731 and with wall 736 abutting against the configured bone 714, continued rotation of the connector 740 will cause and result in the first and second fasteners 720 and 730, respectively, and the bones attached to each being drawn toward each other.
  • the bone 712 and 714 are preferably drawn into abutting relationship under a predetermined compression relative to each. Since the fasteners 720 and 730 are already fixed to the bone substance of each bone 712 and 714, the ability to rotate the connector 740 allows the surgeon an appropriate "feel" when the bones 712, 714 are drawn into a predetermined and proper compressive relationship relative to each other.
  • the retaining apparatus (not shown) associated with this embodiment of the invention prevents the
  • the interfragmentary fixation kit comprises a collection of first axially elongated fasteners.
  • Each fastener in the collection has an elongated length that is different from the elongated length of other fasteners in the collection.
  • each fastener in the collection has extemal threading for anchoring the first fastener into a bone fragment.
  • the configuration of the extemal threading of each fastener in the collection may differ from other fasteners in the collection. Accordingly, the surgeon is permitted to choose from the interfragmentary fixation kit the appropriate sized fastener.
  • the interfragmentary fixation kit further includes a series of second fasteners.
  • Each of said second fasteners in the series is adapted for attachment in nonmovable relation to the second bone in the patient and has a different configuration than the other fasteners in the series of second fasteners, thus yielding a selection from which the surgeon can chose the most appropriate fastener from the particular fracture being repaired.
  • a set of elongated connectors are provided in combination with the interfragmentary fixation kit.
  • Each connector in the set of connectors has a head portion that accommodates a driving tool and an elongated lengthwise shank portion having extemal uniformly pitched threading that corresponds to the intemal threading of each fastener in the collection of first fasteners. Understandably, the length of the shank portion of each connector in the set of connectors varies from one another to allow various fasteners to be used in combination relative to each other. Accordingly, the surgeon is permitted to mix and match sets of components to the appropriate circumstances which require repair.
  • the multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly permits first and second bone fragments to be connected under compression.
  • Another important feature of the present invention is that the interfragmentary fixation assembly allows the bone fragments to be interconnected under adjustable compression that is preselected by the surgeon during the connection process.
  • the surgeon is provided with a "feel" for the level or degree of compression to be established between the fasteners and, thus, bone fragments to promote healing of bone fragments.
  • a salient feature of the present invention is the provision of a retainer mechanism that maintains the predetermined level of compression between the fasteners by preventing the connector between the fasteners from inadvertently turning.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un dispositif de fixation (10) interfragmentaire composé de plusieurs pièces. Ce dispositif (10) a pour but de relier des fragments osseux au niveau d'une fracture. Il comprend un premier élément de fixation (20), allongé dans le sens axial, pourvu d'un filetage externe (22) pour ancrer le premier élément de fixation (20) dans la substance osseuse du premier fragment osseux. Ce premier élément de fixation (20) présente un trou traversant coaxial (25) sur la longueur duquel s'étend un filetage interne (26). Le dispositif de fixation (10) comprend également un deuxième élément de fixation (30) pouvant être fixé, de manière à ne pas pouvoir se déplacer par rapport au deuxième fragment osseux. Un connecteur allongé (40) relie, de manière fonctionnnelle, les éléments de fixation (20, 30) de telle sorte que la rotation du connecteur (40) exerce une traction sur les éléments de fixation (20, 30) et les fragments osseux fixés à chacun de ces éléments pour les amener dans une position de compression les uns par rapport aux autres. Un appareil de retenue (50) empêche le connecteur (40) de tourner par inadvertance et maintient ainsi la relation de compression prédeterminée entre les éléments de fixation (20, 30) et les fragments osseux pour favoriser la guérison de la fracture.
PCT/US1996/020588 1995-12-21 1996-12-20 Dispositif de fixation interfragmentaire compose de plusieurs pieces WO1997022301A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU14678/97A AU1467897A (en) 1995-12-21 1996-12-20 Multipiece interfragmentary fixation assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US57681395A 1995-12-21 1995-12-21
US08/576,813 1995-12-21
US08/764,265 1996-12-12

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WO1997022301A1 true WO1997022301A1 (fr) 1997-06-26

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WO (1) WO1997022301A1 (fr)

Cited By (25)

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WO2010006195A1 (fr) * 2008-07-09 2010-01-14 Amei Technologies, Inc. Clou d'arthrodèse de cheville et ensemble stabilisateur
US7909882B2 (en) 2007-01-19 2011-03-22 Albert Stinnette Socket and prosthesis for joint replacement
WO2012003548A1 (fr) * 2010-07-07 2012-01-12 Matthew Adam Yalizis Vis osseuse à compression
EP2453819A1 (fr) * 2009-07-13 2012-05-23 Extremity Medical LLC Système de fixation, ensemble de fixation intramédulaire et procédé d'utilisation
US8317845B2 (en) 2007-01-19 2012-11-27 Alexa Medical, Llc Screw and method of use
US8529611B2 (en) 2010-03-16 2013-09-10 Competitive Global Medical, Llc Distal interphalangeal fusion method and device
US8685067B2 (en) 2010-12-21 2014-04-01 Competitive Global Medical, Llc Compression plate apparatus
US8715326B2 (en) 2009-08-28 2014-05-06 Competitive Global Medical, Llc Distal interphalangeal fusion device and method of use
WO2014078321A1 (fr) * 2012-11-13 2014-05-22 Greenberg Louis E Implant orthopédique ayant une section transversale non circulaire et son procédé d'utilisation
WO2014138408A1 (fr) * 2013-03-06 2014-09-12 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Implant et procédé de réparation de bourrelet glénoïdien
US9017329B2 (en) 2008-06-24 2015-04-28 Extremity Medical, Llc Intramedullary fixation assembly and method of use
US9044282B2 (en) 2008-06-24 2015-06-02 Extremity Medical Llc Intraosseous intramedullary fixation assembly and method of use
US9226783B2 (en) 2008-07-09 2016-01-05 Icon Orthopaedic Concepts, Llc Ankle arthrodesis nail and outrigger assembly
WO2016080922A1 (fr) * 2014-11-20 2016-05-26 Karadeni̇z Emre Appareil de préhension pour dispositif de retenue de fils
US9402620B2 (en) 2013-03-04 2016-08-02 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Knotless filamentary fixation devices, assemblies and systems and methods of assembly and use
US9408646B2 (en) 2003-09-03 2016-08-09 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Bone plate with captive clips
US9414870B2 (en) 2003-09-03 2016-08-16 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Translatable carriage fixation system
US9445803B2 (en) 2011-11-23 2016-09-20 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Filamentary suture anchor
US9808242B2 (en) 2012-04-06 2017-11-07 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Knotless filament anchor for soft tissue repair
US9986992B2 (en) 2014-10-28 2018-06-05 Stryker Corporation Suture anchor and associated methods of use
US10123792B2 (en) 2012-08-03 2018-11-13 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Soft tissue fixation devices and methods
US10231744B2 (en) 2009-08-20 2019-03-19 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Flexible ACL instrumentation, kit and method
US10568616B2 (en) 2014-12-17 2020-02-25 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Instruments and methods of soft tissue fixation
USD902405S1 (en) 2018-02-22 2020-11-17 Stryker Corporation Self-punching bone anchor inserter
US11331094B2 (en) 2013-04-22 2022-05-17 Stryker Corporation Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone

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Cited By (39)

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US10368927B2 (en) 2003-09-03 2019-08-06 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Bone plate with captive clips
US9414870B2 (en) 2003-09-03 2016-08-16 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Translatable carriage fixation system
US9408646B2 (en) 2003-09-03 2016-08-09 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Bone plate with captive clips
US7909882B2 (en) 2007-01-19 2011-03-22 Albert Stinnette Socket and prosthesis for joint replacement
US8317845B2 (en) 2007-01-19 2012-11-27 Alexa Medical, Llc Screw and method of use
US9044282B2 (en) 2008-06-24 2015-06-02 Extremity Medical Llc Intraosseous intramedullary fixation assembly and method of use
US11298166B2 (en) 2008-06-24 2022-04-12 Extremity Medical Llc Intraosseous intramedullary fixation assembly and method of use
US9017329B2 (en) 2008-06-24 2015-04-28 Extremity Medical, Llc Intramedullary fixation assembly and method of use
US10751097B2 (en) 2008-06-24 2020-08-25 Extremity Medical Llc Intraosseous intramedullary fixation assembly and method of use
US9226783B2 (en) 2008-07-09 2016-01-05 Icon Orthopaedic Concepts, Llc Ankle arthrodesis nail and outrigger assembly
WO2010006195A1 (fr) * 2008-07-09 2010-01-14 Amei Technologies, Inc. Clou d'arthrodèse de cheville et ensemble stabilisateur
EP2453819A1 (fr) * 2009-07-13 2012-05-23 Extremity Medical LLC Système de fixation, ensemble de fixation intramédulaire et procédé d'utilisation
EP2453819A4 (fr) * 2009-07-13 2014-07-02 Extremity Medical Llc Système de fixation, ensemble de fixation intramédulaire et procédé d'utilisation
US10231744B2 (en) 2009-08-20 2019-03-19 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Flexible ACL instrumentation, kit and method
US11364041B2 (en) 2009-08-20 2022-06-21 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Flexible ACL instrumentation, kit and method
US8715326B2 (en) 2009-08-28 2014-05-06 Competitive Global Medical, Llc Distal interphalangeal fusion device and method of use
US8529611B2 (en) 2010-03-16 2013-09-10 Competitive Global Medical, Llc Distal interphalangeal fusion method and device
WO2012003548A1 (fr) * 2010-07-07 2012-01-12 Matthew Adam Yalizis Vis osseuse à compression
US8685067B2 (en) 2010-12-21 2014-04-01 Competitive Global Medical, Llc Compression plate apparatus
US9445803B2 (en) 2011-11-23 2016-09-20 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Filamentary suture anchor
US10448944B2 (en) 2011-11-23 2019-10-22 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Filamentary fixation device
US11844508B2 (en) 2011-11-23 2023-12-19 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Filamentary fixation device
US11076865B2 (en) 2012-04-06 2021-08-03 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Knotless filament anchor for soft tissue repair
US9808242B2 (en) 2012-04-06 2017-11-07 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Knotless filament anchor for soft tissue repair
US10653410B2 (en) 2012-08-03 2020-05-19 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Soft tissue fixation devices and methods
US10123792B2 (en) 2012-08-03 2018-11-13 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Soft tissue fixation devices and methods
WO2014078321A1 (fr) * 2012-11-13 2014-05-22 Greenberg Louis E Implant orthopédique ayant une section transversale non circulaire et son procédé d'utilisation
US9775648B2 (en) 2012-11-13 2017-10-03 Louis E. Greenberg Orthopedic implant having non-circular cross section and method of use thereof
US10285685B2 (en) 2013-03-04 2019-05-14 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Knotless filamentary fixation devices, assemblies and systems and methods of assembly and use
US9402620B2 (en) 2013-03-04 2016-08-02 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Knotless filamentary fixation devices, assemblies and systems and methods of assembly and use
WO2014138408A1 (fr) * 2013-03-06 2014-09-12 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Implant et procédé de réparation de bourrelet glénoïdien
US11331094B2 (en) 2013-04-22 2022-05-17 Stryker Corporation Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone
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WO2016080922A1 (fr) * 2014-11-20 2016-05-26 Karadeni̇z Emre Appareil de préhension pour dispositif de retenue de fils
US10568616B2 (en) 2014-12-17 2020-02-25 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Instruments and methods of soft tissue fixation
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