WO2025199061A1

WO2025199061A1 - Gooseneck fracture reduction tool

Info

Publication number: WO2025199061A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/020289
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mikhail TRETIAKOV
Original assignee: University of Washington; Seattle Childrens Hospital
Current assignee: University of Washington; Seattle Childrens Hospital
Priority date: 2024-03-22
Filing date: 2025-03-17
Publication date: 2025-09-25
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-22

Abstract

A fracture reduction tool for performing bone fracture reduction is disclosed herein. In one example, the fracture reduction tool includes a first baseplate, a second baseplate, and a flexible linker coupled between the first baseplate and the second baseplate, wherein the flexible linker comprises a gooseneck component configured to move and bend in multiple degrees of freedom.

Description

GOOSENECK FRACTURE REDUCTION TOOL

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/568,665, entitled “GOOSENECK FRACTURE REDUCTION TOOL,” and fded March 22, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate generally to orthopedic surgery, and more specifically to a bone fracture reduction tool configured to be utilized during orthopedic surgery.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

[0003] Bone fractures constitute a large percentage of operative orthopedic practice. The majority of fractures treated operatively have displacement of two or more fragments of bone relative to one another, such as displaced, segmental, comminuted, and compound fractures. Prior to placement of definitive hardware such as a plate-and-screw or rod construct, the fracture fragments are brought into adequate alignment. Adequately aligning bone fragments is often difficult since the fracture fragments may be displaced, rotated, unstable, and/or generally difficult to manually align. The time taken to achieve adequate reduction (alignment of the fragments) exposes the patient to additional anesthesia and consumes valuable time in the operating room for the surgeon, anesthesia team, nursing team, and facility resources. Any time saved with achieving fracture reduction expedites definitive fracture fixation and shortens time spent under anesthesia for the patient and the healthcare team.

[0004] A fracture reduction tool is provided herein to at least partly address the above issues. In an example, the fracture reduction tool includes a first baseplate, a second baseplate, and a flexible linker coupled between the first baseplate and the second baseplate, wherein the flexible linker comprises a gooseneck component configured to move and bend in multiple degrees of freedom.

[0005] It should be understood that the brief description above is provided to introduce in simplified form a selection of concepts that are further described in the detailed description. It is not meant to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is defined uniquely by the claims that follow the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] FIGS. 1 and 2 schematically show a fracture reduction tool according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0007] FIG. 3 shows a top view of an example of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 1;

[0008] FIG. 4 is perspective view of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 3;

[0009] FIG. 5 is front view of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 3;

[0010] FIG. 6 is rear view of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 3;

[0011] FIG. 7 is a magnified side view of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 3;

[0012] FIGS. 8 and 9 are side perspective views of another example of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 1; and

[0013] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method for performing fracture reduction with a fracture reduction tool according to embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] The present description relates to a fracture reduction tool configured to hold bone fragments in alignment during orthopedic surgery where definitive implants are placed. Common fracture reduction tools used in orthopedic surgery often interfere with placement of definitive implants and provide limited control over fracture fragments, typically only allowing manipulation in one or two planes. For example, a clamp placed on two pieces of bone at the fracture line then immediately blocks the placement of a plate that is to span that very fracture line. Use of the clamp placed on two pieces of bone at the fracture line also increases incision size or demands more incisions, thereby increasing surgical time, blood loss, etc. Further, current commonly available fracture reduction tools provide uniplanar or biplanar control of the fracture fragments. An example of a current fracture reduction tool is a simple bone clamp that grabs, like jaws, side-to- side. The bone clamp that grabs side-to-side makes fracture fixation difficult since the bone fragments are frequently displaced in the x, y, and z axes in space while the reduction tools are only able to control in one or two of the axes. The limitations posed by current fracture reduction tools extend surgery time, increase patient exposure to anesthesia, and can require larger or multiple incisions. Further, fracture reduction tools that include complicated hardware with multiple indentations, threaded components, screws, and so forth may make sterilization of fracture reduction tools challenging and may increase the costs of such fracture reduction tools. [0015] Thus, embodiments are disclosed herein for a fracture reduction tool that includes a central flexible linker with two baseplates at either end. Each baseplate may include one or more fittings or apertures each configured to house/couple to a respective orthopedic reduction component, such as an orthopedic wire or clamp. In some examples, the flexible linker may be a gooseneck component. In other examples, the flexible linker may be comprised of a plurality of articulating links or another suitable flexible structure. The flexible linker may include a central wire or other mechanism that can be tightened or otherwise locked into place in order to hold the flexible linker, and hence the baseplates, in a desired position. During fracture reduction, each baseplate may be secured to a respective bone fragment via the one or more orthopedic reduction components. One or more of the baseplates may be moved in any direction (up/down, side to side, rotated, etc.) until the bone fragments are at a desired position (e g., aligned with each other), at which point the flexible linker may be locked in place. Definitive orthopedic implants may then be positioned and the fracture reduction tool may be removed from the patient.

[0016] The flexible nature of the linker allows the fracture reduction tool of the present disclosure to provide control of fracture fragments in all three planes (e g., x, y, and z axes or coronal, sagittal, and axial planes of the human body) and be positioned out of the way of the incision and definitive fixation implants. Depending on the type of fracture, the fracture reduction tool of the present disclosure may facilitate the usage of only percutaneous wires or smaller incision(s) to achieve reduction, thereby minimizing incisions and soft tissue trauma, reducing the likelihood of infection, and reducing healing time. Also, the fracture reduction tool disclosed herein can be positioned in a way that does not interfere with radiographic visualization of the fracture reduction and fixation on intraoperative x-ray. Further, the different apertures/fittings of the fracture reduction tool allow for usage of suitable reduction components, such as Kirschner wires (referred to as K-wires), pliers, clamps, etc., which allows a single fracture reduction tool to be used in a variety of different reduction procedures, whether open or closed. The fracture reduction tool disclosed herein may be removed at the conclusion of the surgery, is not implanted in the patient, and is configured to be sterilized for re-use. In this way, the fracture reduction tool may provide a simple, low-cost mechanism for aligning bone fragments in displaced fractures.

[0017] FIGS. 1 and 2 schematically show an example fracture reduction tool 100 according to embodiments of the disclosure. FIGS. 3-7 show a first non-limiting example of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 1 while FIGS. 8 and 9 show a second non-limiting example of the fracture reduction tool of FIG. 1. FIGS. 1-9 include a Cartesian coordinate system 199 to orient the views. The coordinate system may be arranged with respect to the position of parts once they are assembled into the fracture reduction tool. The y-axis of coordinate system 199 may be a vertical axis (e.g., parallel to a gravitational axis), the x-axis of coordinate system 199 may be a longitudinal axis (e.g., horizontal axis), and/or the z-axis of coordinate system 199 may be a lateral axis, in one example. However, the axes may have other orientations, in other examples. When referencing direction, positive may refer to the direction of the arrow of the x-axis, y-axis, and z- axis and negative may refer to the opposite direction of the arrow of the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis. A filled circle may represent an arrow and axis facing toward, or positive to, a view. An unfilled circle may represent an arrow and an axis facing away, or negative to, a view. Further, FIGS. 3-9 are drawn to scale, though other relative dimensions could be used if desired.

[0018] Referring first to FIGS. 1 and 2, the fracture reduction tool 100 is shown from the top, such that the fracture reduction tool 100 is positioned to perform fracture reduction of bone fragments (not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) positioned vertically below the fracture reduction tool with respect to gravity, though it is to be appreciated that the fracture reduction tool 100 may be placed into any orientation with respect to gravity to facilitate fracture reduction. The fracture reduction tool 100 includes a flexible linker 102 coupled to a first baseplate 104 and a second baseplate 106. The flexible linker 102 may be configured to move and bend in multiple degrees of freedom. For example, the flexible linker 102 may be comprised of a plurality of articulating links, a gooseneck component, a helical spring, or another suitable structure that enables the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 to be moved to desired positions relative to each other. The flexible linker 102 may form a cylindrical, hollow shaft with a first terminating end that is in face-sharing contact with, or housed within, the first baseplate 104 and a second terminating end that is in face-sharing contact with, or housed within, the second baseplate 106. The flexible linker 102 may be comprised of stainless steel or another suitable material or materials, such as a polymer (e g., PVC). [0019] The first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may each comprise a hollow block with open or closed ends, at least in some examples. In other examples, the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may not be hollow (other than apertures for accommodating bone pins/wires and an adjustable knob for locking the fracture reduction tool, as explained in more detail below). The first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may have a rectangular/cuboid shape, though other shapes are possible without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may be permanently coupled to the flexible linker 102, such that the baseplates are not configured to be removed from the flexible linker 102. For example, the first baseplate 104 may be welded, glued, or otherwise directly and permanently secured to the flexible linker 102. Likewise, the second baseplate 106 may be welded, glued, or otherwise directly and permanently secured to the flexible linker 102. By permanently fixing the baseplates to the flexible linker, complicated removable attachment mechanisms that necessitate screws, bolts, and the like may be eliminated, which may simplify use of the fracture reduction tool 100 and increase ease of sterilization.

[0020] In the examples shown herein, each of the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 is an open-ended cuboid comprised of four walls, including a top wall, a bottom wall opposite the top wall, a front wall, and a back wall opposite the front wall. The first terminating end of the flexible linker 102 may be in face-sharing contact with the back wall of the first baseplate 104, or the first terminating end of the flexible linker 102 may be housed within the first baseplate 104 such that a portion of the flexible linker 102 extends through the back wall of the first baseplate 104. Similarly, the second terminating end of the flexible linker 102 may be in face-sharing contact with the back wall of the second baseplate 106, or the second terminating end of the flexible linker 102 may be housed within the second baseplate 106 such that a portion of the flexible linker 102 extends through the back wall of the second baseplate 106.

[0021] Each of the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may include one or more fittings and/or apertures to accommodate reduction components, such as bone pins, wires, and/or surgical tools such as clamps. As shown in FIG. 1, the first baseplate 104 includes a first set of apertures 108 and the second baseplate 106 includes a second set of apertures 110. The first set of apertures 108 are positioned in/extend through the top wall of the first baseplate 104 and the second set of apertures 110 are positioned in/extend through the top wall of the second baseplate 106. The first set of apertures 108 may include two first apertures of a first, smaller diameter and two second apertures of a second, larger diameter. In a non-limiting example, the first apertures may have a diameter of 1.7 mm and the second apertures may have a diameter of 2.1 mm, which may allow for tight-fit accommodation of two different standard sized K-wires (e.g., 1.6 mm and 2.0 mm K- wires). However, apertures of different and/or additional sizes may be present without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The second set of apertures 110 may be identical to the first set of apertures 108. It is to be appreciated that the bottom wall of each of the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may include a respective set of apertures, identical to the first set of apertures 108, such that the bone pins/wires may extend through the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106. Further, the flexible linker 102 may couple to each baseplate at a respective position offset from a center of the corresponding baseplate. For example, the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may each have an inner end that face each other when the fracture reduction tool 100 is in the position shown in FIG. 2 and an outer end that is opposite the inner end.

[0022] In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the flexible linker 102 may couple to each baseplate at a position closer to the outer end than the inner end of each baseplate. Thus, each baseplate may include a lateral center (e.g., where a central lateral axis, perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the respective baseplate, extends), a first portion that extends from the lateral center to the outer end, and a second portion that extends from the lateral center to the inner end. The flexible linker 102 may couple to the first baseplate 104 at the first portion of the first baseplate 104 and may couple to the second baseplate 106 at the first portion of the second baseplate 106. The first set of apertures 108 may be positioned on/extend through the second portion of the first baseplate 104 and the second set of apertures 110 may be positioned on/extend through the second portion of the second baseplate 106, which may allow the orthopedic wires or pins (e g., K-wires) to extend through the baseplates without obstructing or otherwise interfering with the positioning of the flexible linker 102. However, it is to be appreciated that the flexible linker 102 may couple to any suitable part of the baseplates and the apertures may be located at a different portion of the baseplates without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0023] The flexible linker 102 may be configured to bend and flex in multiple directions. For example, the flexible linker 102 may extend in a straight line (e.g., vertically, parallel to the y- axis) with a radius of curvature of infinity between the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106, as shown in FIG. 1, and may be manually adjusted to a desired radius of curvature that is less than infinity, such as the curvature shown in FIG. 2. The flexible linker 102 may be configured to bend such that the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 are aligned along a common axis or parallel axes. For example, in the orientation shown in FIG. 1, the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 each have a central longitudinal axis that extends parallel to the x-axis while the flexible linker 102 has a central longitudinal axis that extends parallel to the z-axis (and hence perpendicular to the central longitudinal axes of the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106). When the fracture reduction tool is adjusted to move the baseplates to a desired position, the central longitudinal axes of the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 may be aligned along the x-axis, as shown in FIG. 2, or offset along the z-axis. Further, the central longitudinal axes of the baseplates may be aligned along the y-axis or offset along the y-axis. Further, one or each of the central longitudinal axes of the baseplates may extend at an angle relative to the x-axis or may extend along the x-axis. Further still, one or more of the baseplates may be rotated (e.g., around an axis parallel to the x axis in FIG. 2). Thus, the flexible linker 102 facilitates translation and rotation of the baseplates.

[0024] Once the baseplates are brought into a selected three-dimensional (3D) position, the fracture reduction tool 100 may be locked into position via a locking device. In the example shown, the locking device may include a central cable 112 that can be tensioned via a knob 114. The central cable 112 may extend through the hollow shaft of the flexible linker 102 and may be coupled at a first end to the first baseplate 104. The central cable 112 may extend through the bottom wall of the second baseplate 106 and may be coupled at second end to a shaft of the knob 114. The shaft of the knob 114 may rotate when a handle of the knob 114 is rotated, which may increase tension or decrease tension on the central cable 112 depending the direction of rotation. For example, by rotating the handle in a first direction, an increased length of the central cable 112 may be wound around the shaft, resulting in a smaller length of the central cable 112 extending from the shaft to the first baseplate 104 and thus increasing the tension on the central cable 112. Conversely, by rotating the handle in a second, opposite direction, a decreased length of the central cable 112 may be wound around the shaft, resulting a larger length of the central cable 112 extending from the shaft to the first baseplate 104 and thus decreasing the tension on the central cable 112. When the length of the central cable 112 extending between the shaft and the first baseplate 104 is at a maximum (e.g., none of the central cable 112 is wound around the shaft), the central cable 1 12 may be able to extend through the flexible linker 102 without exerting frictional force on the flexible linker 102, regardless of the 3D position of the flexible linker 102. The position of the handle that results in the maximum length of the central cable 112, or a range of positions that includes the central cable 112 being at the maximum length through a first range of decreased lengths (e.g., the maximum through being reduced by 10% of the total length) may be considered a released position of the fracture reduction tool, as at that position/range of positions, the flexible linker 102 may be moved into any 3D position. As the handle is rotated in the first direction from the release position, the length of the central cable 112 may decrease and tension on the cable may increase, but the flexible linker 102 may still be able to be moved into at least some positions (e.g., an intermediate position of the fracture reduction tool). Finally, as the handle is rotated in the first direction by a further amount, the length of the central cable 112 may decrease to a point where the central cable 112 exerts frictional force on at least some portions of the flexible linker 102 and prevents the flexible linker 102 from moving out of a set position (unless sufficient force is applied to the fracture reduction tool to break the central cable 112), which may be considered the locked position. The length of the central cable 112 that extends between the shaft and the first baseplate 104 that results in the locked position may depend on the 3D shape/position of the flexible linker 102. The set position of the flexible linker 102/fracture reduction tool may be the 3D position of the flexible linker 102 at the time the locking device is moved into the locked position.

[0025] Thus, tension of the central cable 112 may be reduced to allow movement of the baseplates and flexing of the flexible linker 102. When a selected 3D position of the flexible linker 102 is achieved (e.g., the set position), then the handle of the knob 114 may be rotated to increase tension of the central cable 112 to the locked position and hold the flexible linker 102 in the selected 3D position. It is to be appreciated that other configurations for the locking device are possible. For example, the central cable 112 may be tensioned (or tension released) via a racheting tensioning device with a release handle.

[0026] The fracture reduction tool 100 may have an overall length (LI) from the front wall of the first baseplate 104 to the front wall of the second baseplate 106. The flexible linker 102 may have a length L2 from the point where the flexible linker 102 couples to the back wall of the first baseplate 104 to the point where the flexible linker 102 couples to the back wall of the second baseplate 106. The flexible linker 102 may further have a cross-sectional diameter DI in a range of 2-4 cm. Each baseplate may have the same dimensions. As shown, the first baseplate 104 has a length L3 and a width Wl, and the second baseplate 106 has the same length and width. The overall length LI may thus include the length L2 of the flexible linker 102, the width Wl of the first baseplate 104, and the width Wl of the second baseplate 106. In some examples, the overall length LI, when in the position shown in FIG. 1, may be in a range of 15-40 cm, the length L2 may be in a range of 10-35 cm, the length L3 may be in a range of 10-15 cm, and the width Wl may be in a range of 2-4 cm. However, the dimensions disclosed herein are exemplary and other dimensions are possible. Further, the size of the fracture reduction tool 100 may depend on the intended use of the fracture reduction tool 100, such as whether the fracture reduction tool 100 is to be used on pediatric or adult patients and/or the specific bone(s) the fracture reduction tool 100 is intended to set. For example, a first, smaller version of the fracture reduction tool 100 may be utilized for pediatric patients (e.g., with the length L2 of the flexible linker 102 being 10-15 cm) while a second, larger version of the fracture reduction tool 100 may be utilized for adult patients (e.g., with the length L2 of the flexible linker 102 being 15-30 cm) and a third, even larger version of the fracture reduction tool 100 may be utilized for larger adult patients (e.g., with the length L2 of the flexible linker 102 being 30 cm or greater). It is to be appreciated that the flexible linker 102 may be configured to hold a range of radii of curvature, from a maximum radius of curvature (e.g., infinite, as shown in FIG. 1) to a minimum radius of curvature that corresponds to the ends of the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106 being in face-sharing contact (whether the inner ends or outer ends), or even overlapping.

[0027] Thus, the fracture reduction tool 100 includes the flexible linker 102 coupled to the first baseplate 104 and the second baseplate 106. The flexible linker 102 may be a gooseneck, as will be described in more detail below, and thus is configured to be moved into a variety of positions. Attached to the second baseplate 106 is the knob 114 used to tighten the gooseneck. The flexible linker (e.g., “gooseneck” component) may comprise stainless steel coils (when configured as a gooseneck) or another suitable structure (e.g., links) with a central cable (e.g., central cable 112) extending through a hollow center of the flexible linker. The cable originates at one end of the gooseneck in the first baseplate 104 and travels internally through the length of the gooseneck to the second baseplate 106 where the tightening knob is located. The tightening knob, when turned a first direction, such as clockwise, is used to tension the adjustable gooseneck such that it holds the selected 3D position of the tool. Turning the tightening knob in a second direction, e.g., counterclockwise, then loosens the tension and the gooseneck is flexible again. Each baseplate may include two or more holes to accommodate Kirschner wires (K-wires), a commonly-used wire in orthopedic surgery that allows temporary connection between the tool and the bone. The fracture reduction tool is used by placing K-wires through the first baseplate into one fracture fragment, and placing K-wires through the second baseplate into the other fracture fragment. One or both of the baseplates may then be manipulated (e.g., moved vertically and/or horizontally, rotated, tilted) to bring the bone fragments to a desired position. Once appropriate fracture reduction is achieved (e.g., the bone pieces are manually aligned), the tightening knob on the second baseplate is turned clockwise to lock the position of the gooseneck and make it rigid. This holds the alignment of the fracture so definitive orthopedic implants can be placed. The fracture reduction tool 100 may remain outside the patient. Once the definitive orthopedic implants are placed or the need for the fracture reduction tool is otherwise complete, the fracture reduction tool may be removed from the patient and sterilized for reuse.

[0028] The fracture reduction tool 100 may thus be configured specifically for sterilization. For example, the open-ended structure of the baseplates may allow access to the inner surfaces of the baseplates as well as the shaft of the knob and end of the central cable for cleaning and sterilization. Further, the fracture reduction tool 100 lacks removable parts other than the reduction components such as bone wires/pins (or, when included as described below, a removable clamp), thus providing for fewer structural features having indentations, threads, and the like, and thereby limiting the areas where patient fluids and environmental debris can penetrate and build up. Further still, the flexible linker may include perforations to allow cleaning fluid to enter and exit the interior of the flexible linker and thereby ensure sufficient sterilization of the flexible linker. For example, FIG. 2 shows a plurality of perforations 103, such as a first perforation 105, that extend through the flexible linker to fluidly couple the interior of the flexible linker to the environment. The plurality of perforations 103 may be evenly distributed across and along the flexible linker 102, or the plurality of perforations may be unevenly distributed to facilitate increased fluid penetration at areas of higher sterilization demand (e.g., more perforations at the ends of the flexible linker than in the middle of the flexible linker).

[0029] FIGS. 3-7 show a fracture reduction tool 300, which is a first non-limiting example of the fracture reduction tool 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a top view, FIG. 4 is perspective view, FIG. 5 is a front view, FIG. 6 is a back view, and FIG. 7 is a magnified side view. FIGS. 3-7 are described collectively. [0030] The fracture reduction tool 300 includes a flexible linker 302 coupled between a first baseplate 304 and a second baseplate 306. The first baseplate 304 includes a first set of apertures 308 and the second baseplate 306 includes a second set of apertures 310. Further, the second baseplate 306 includes a knob 314 configured to tighten a central cable 312 (shown in FIG. 7). The flexible linker 302, the first baseplate 304, and the second baseplate 306 are similar to the flexible linker 102, the first baseplate 104, and the second baseplate 106, and thus description of the flexible linker 102, the first baseplate 104, and the second baseplate 106 provided above likewise applies to the flexible linker 302, the first baseplate 304, and the second baseplate 306. [0031] In the specific example shown in FIGS. 3-7, the flexible linker 302 is a gooseneck and includes a gooseneck component 316 coupled between a first coupling element 318 and a second coupling element 320. The gooseneck component 316 may be comprised of two helical coils. For example, the gooseneck component 316 may be comprised of a first helical coil having a circular cross-section and a second helical coil having a triangular cross-section, with the second helical coil wound around the first helical coil. The triangular cross-sectional shape of the second helical coil may allow the second helical coil to be interdigitated with the first helical coil and slip out of the first helical coil to facilitate bending of the gooseneck component 316 in any direction. Friction between the first helical coil and the second helical coil may hold the gooseneck component 316 in position, though forces acted on the gooseneck component 316 by the first baseplate 304 and/or the second baseplate 306 (particularly when the fracture reduction tool 300 is coupled to bone fragments) may overcome the frictional force of the helical coils, and hence the fracture reduction tool includes the locking device (e.g., the central cable 312 and knob 314) to secure the flexible linker 302 in a set position.

[0032] The first coupling element 318 and the second coupling element 320 may each comprise a rigid (e.g., non-flexible) segment of material that facilitates coupling of the gooseneck component 316 to a respective baseplate. Thus, the first coupling element 318 may be directly coupled to the first baseplate 304 and the second coupling element 320 may be directly coupled to the second baseplate 306. Each of the gooseneck component 316, the first coupling element 318, and the second coupling element 320 may be cylindrical with a hollow interior, have the same or similar inner diameters, and be comprised of the same material or materials (e.g., stainless steel). The first coupling element 318 and the second coupling element 320 may have the same length or different lengths, but may each have a length that is smaller than a length of the gooseneck component 316. For example, the flexible linker 302 may have an overall length and the gooseneck component 316 may have a length that is 50-90% of the overall length, with the first coupling element 318 and the second coupling element 320 comprising the remaining length. Reducing the length of the first coupling element 318 and the second coupling element 320 may allow for increased flexibility of the gooseneck component 316, while increasing the length of the first coupling element 318 and the second coupling element 320 may increase the stability of the baseplates when in the set position. In some examples, the first coupling element 318 and the second coupling element 320 may be dispensed with and the gooseneck component 316 may extend an entirety of the overall length of the flexible linker 302.

[0033] The first baseplate 304 includes a top wall 322, a front wall 324, a bottom wall 326 (opposite the top wall 322), and a back wall 328 (opposite the front wall 324). The sides of the first baseplate 304 are open, such that the hollow interior of the first baseplate 304 is open to atmosphere. The second baseplate 306 likewise includes a top wall 330, a front wall 332, a bottom wall 334 (opposite the top wall 330), and a back wall 336 (opposite the front wall 332). The sides of the second baseplate 306 are open, such that the hollow interior of the second baseplate 306 is open to atmosphere. The first set of apertures 308 includes two apertures extending through the top wall 322 and two apertures extending through the bottom wall 326 (and aligned with the apertures of the top wall 322). The second set of apertures 310 includes two apertures extending through the top wall 330 and two apertures extending through the bottom wall 334 (and aligned with the apertures of the top wall 330). Thus, each of the first baseplate 304 and the second baseplate 306 includes apertures to accommodate two bone pins/wires, though additional apertures may be included (e.g., as described above with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2). As described above with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, the apertures may be positioned on a second portion of each baseplate that extends from a center (e.g., lateral center) of the baseplate to the inner end of the baseplate, while the flexible linker 302 couples to each baseplate at a position offset from the lateral center (e.g., at a first portion of the baseplate that extends from the lateral center to the outer end). As labeled in FIGS. 5 and 6, to perform fracture reduction, a first set of K-wires 340 may be positioned in the first set of apertures 308 and thus extend through the first baseplate 304 to a first bone fragment 342. A second set of K-wires 344 may be positioned in the second set of apertures 310 and thus extend through the second baseplate 306 to a second bone fragment 346. [0034] The baseplates may vary in size and/or shape without departing from the scope of this disclosure. However, the baseplates may have sufficient width (Wl) to accommodate the apertures while maintaining structural integrity, sufficient length (L3) to accommodate the gooseneck/baseplate interface and apertures, and sufficient wall thickness to provide stability and a friction fit of the orthopedic wires or pins in the baseplates. Other configurations are possible, such as the flexible linker coupling to the baseplates at the outer ends of the baseplates rather than at the back wall 328 and the back wall 336. Further, the baseplates may include different attachment points or tensioning knob configurations.

[0035] The fracture reduction tool 300 includes a locking device that includes the central cable 312 and the knob 314. As visible in FIG. 7, the knob 314 includes a handle 350 coupled to a shaft 352. The shaft 352 extends through the top wall 330 and terminates within the interior of the second baseplate 306. The shaft 352 is a threaded shaft. The knob 314 further includes a nut 354 with a flange positioned on the top wall 330 and a threaded lock portion that extends from the flange, through the top wall 330, and into the interior of the second baseplate 306. The threaded lock portion is configured to engage the threads of the shaft 352 to allow the shaft 352 to rotate via rotation of the handle 350 and hold the shaft 352 in a set position. The central cable 312 is coupled to the shaft 352 at a terminating end of the central cable and is partially wound around the shaft 352, and extends from the shaft 352 to and through the interior of the flexible linker 302. The central cable 312 terminates at its other terminating end at the first baseplate 304. Thus, when the handle 350 is rotated in a first direction, more of the central cable is wound around the shaft 352 and the central cable 312 is tensioned to hold the flexible linker 302 (and in particular the gooseneck component 316) in its set position. When the handle 350 is rotated in a second direction, less of the central cable is wound around the shaft 352 and the central cable 312 is relaxed so that the position of the flexible linker 302 (e.g., gooseneck component 316) can be adjusted.

[0036] The fracture reduction tool 300 may be used by placing K-wires through the first baseplate 304 into one fracture fragment, and placing K-wires through the second baseplate 306 into another fracture fragment. The fracture fragments are now able to be controlled in all three planes of motion. Once appropriate fracture reduction is achieved, the handle 350 on the knob 314 is turned a first direction (e.g., clockwise) to lock the position of the gooseneck and make it rigid, thereby holding the alignment of the fracture. The flexible nature of the gooseneck allows it to be positioned out of the way of the incision and definitive fixation hardware. Also, it can be positioned in a way that does not interfere with radiographic visualization of the fracture reduction and fixation on intraoperative fluoroscopy. The fracture reduction tool is removed at the conclusion of orthopedic fixation, is not implanted in the patient, and is sterilized for re-use.

[0037] FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views of a fracture reduction tool 800, which is another non-limiting example of the fracture reduction tool 100. The fracture reduction tool 800 is substantially similar to the fracture reduction tool 300 and thus the description of the fracture reduction tool 300 likewise applies to the fracture reduction tool 800. For example, the fracture reduction tool 800 includes a flexible linker 802 coupled between a first baseplate 304 and a second baseplate 306, where the flexible linker 802 includes a gooseneck component 816. Thus, the description of the flexible linker 302 (including the gooseneck component 316), the first baseplate 304, and the second baseplate 306 likewise applies to the flexible linker 802 (including the gooseneck component 816), the first baseplate 804, and the second baseplate 806. As shown, the first baseplate 804 is accommodating a first pair of K-wires 840 via its first set of apertures (two of which are visible on the back wall of the first baseplate 804), with the first pair of K-wires 840 inserted into a first bone fragment 842. The second baseplate 806 is accommodating a second pair of K-wires 844 via its second set of apertures (two of which are visible on the back wall of the second baseplate 806), with the second pair of K-wires 844 inserted into a second bone fragment 846.

[0038] The fracture reduction tool 800 is shown in a different orientation relative to the bone fragments as the fracture reduction tool 300 and is entering the bone fragments from the side rather than from the top, demonstrating that the fracture reduction tools disclosed herein can be positioned at any desired orientation relative to the bone fragments/fracture to be reduced. Further, as described in more detail below, the fracture reduction tool 800 includes one or more fittings to couple to one or more different types of reduction components in the form of surgical tools, such as pliers, clamps, forceps, etc. By including apertures for K-wires or other orthopedic wires/pins as well fittings for orthopedic surgical tools, in combination with the ability to move the baseplates in multiple degrees of freedom and lock the fracture reduction tool in place, the fracture reduction tools described herein provide more versatility and adaptability than conventional fracture reduction tools. For example, a proximal humerus fracture, where the fracture is in the humeral head (part of a ball and socket joint), may demand a different fracture reduction tool than a midtibia shaft fracture, when conventional fracture reduction tools are utilized. However, the fracture reduction tools disclosed herein may be able to perform reduction on both types of fractures and provide greater flexibility with rotation and translation of bone fragments, thereby reducing intraoperative tissue degradation. Further, the fracture reduction tools described herein may be configured to be utilized in closed reduction procedures as well as open reduction procedures.

[0039] The fracture reduction tool 800 includes an additional fitting configured to couple to a clamp 860 (e.g., pliers, forceps, etc.). In the example shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the first baseplate 804 is coupled to the clamp 860, but the second baseplate 806 may additionally or alternatively couple to a clamp. The first baseplate 804 includes a top wall, a front wall, a bottom wall, and a back wall that all terminate at an outer end of the first baseplate 804 and an inner end of the first baseplate 804, where the inner end is opposite the outer end and is facing the second baseplate 806 in FIGS. 8 and 9. The clamp 860 may be coupled to the first baseplate 804 on the outer end, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, or coupled to the first baseplate 804 at the inner end. The clamp 860 may include a fixed portion 862 and a movable portion 864. The fixed portion 862 may be coupled to the first baseplate 804 while the movable portion 864 may be free to move relative to the fixed portion 862 to enable adjustment of a clamping mechanism 866 formed between the fixed portion 862 and the movable portion 864 at the tip of the clamp. In some examples, the clamp 860 (e.g., the fixed portion 862) may be permanently coupled to the first baseplate 804 (e.g., via welding or another suitable mechanism). In other examples, the clamp 860 may be removably coupled to the outer end of the first baseplate 804 via a suitable fitting, such as a hook, clamp, screw lock, wingnut, etc. In the example shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the fitting may be a wing-nut fitting 850 comprising a threaded shaft coupled to the first baseplate 804 and a wing-nut removably coupled to the threaded shaft. The threaded shaft may be coupled to one of the walls of the first baseplate 804 or may be coupled to an end wall of the first baseplate 804. The clamp 860 may include a threaded aperture configured to couple the clamp 860 to the threaded shaft. Once the clamp 860 is secured to the threaded shaft, the wing-nut may be secured to the threaded shaft to prevent movement of the clamp 860. By including a fitting to enable the clamp to be removably coupled, the fracture reduction tool 800 may be configured to couple to a variety of surgical tools, which may increase versatility of the fracture reduction tool. It is to be appreciated that in examples where the first and/or second baseplate is configured to couple to a surgical tool, the apertures for accepting the orthopedic wires or pins may be included, as shown, or dispensed with. [0040] Thus, the fracture reduction tools disclosed herein (e g., the fracture reduction tool 100, the fracture reduction tool 300, and the fracture reduction tool 800) comprise a flexible linker coupled between a first baseplate and a second baseplate. Each baseplate is sized and shaped to be positioned against a patient near/across a bone fracture. Further, each baseplate may be hollow, which may reduce the weight of the baseplates and reduce the force acting on the flexible linker by the baseplates, which may make it easier to maintain the fracture reduction tool in a set position. Further still, each baseplate includes a set of apertures configured to accommodate one or more pairs of orthopedic wires or pins configured to be inserted into bone fragments (e g., on either side of the fracture). In some examples, one or more of the baseplates may further include a surgical tool such as a clamp or a coupling mechanism/fitting configured to couple to a surgical tool such as a clamp. The flexible linker may be configured to be moved/bent in multiple axes, allowing manipulation of the bone fragments, via the baseplates, in multiple planes (e.g., coronal, sagittal, and axial, as well as rotation). The fracture reduction tool may include a locking device that can be actuated to a locked position to hold the flexible linker, and hence the baseplates and bone fragments, at a desired set position. The flexible linker may include a gooseneck or another flexible structure. However, inclusion of the gooseneck may provide several advantages. For example, the gooseneck can be easily manipulated to allow the baseplates to be positioned at the desired set position, whether near each other or spaced apart from each other, aligned with each other, or offset from each other in one or more planes. The coils of the gooseneck provide friction that helps to maintain the baseplates at the set position; in some examples, if the friction is high enough, the locking device does not have to be actuated (or even present) and the gooseneck itself can hold the entire fracture reduction tool in the set position. The gooseneck is not resilient, in that gooseneck does not act to move back to an initial position. Further, the gooseneck may be easy to sterilize.

[0041] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1000 for bone fracture reduction using a fracture reduction tool according to embodiments of the disclosure, such as the fracture reduction tool 100, the fracture reduction tool 300, and/or the fracture reduction tool 800.

[0042] At 1002, method 1000 includes inserting one or more wires or pins through each baseplate of the fracture reduction tool, via apertures of the baseplate, and/or attaching a surgical tool to a baseplate of the fracture reduction tool (or a surgical tool to each baseplate). For example, as shown in FIGS. 3-7, a pair of K-wires may be inserted through each baseplate of the fracture reduction tool. Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, a clamp may be attached to one or both of the baseplates. At 1004, the fracture reduction tool is positioned relative to a patient, with the baseplates positioned on either side of a bone fracture. For example, a first baseplate of the fracture reduction tool may be positioned on a first side of the fracture while a second baseplate of the fracture reduction tool may be positioned on a second side of the fracture. The flexible linker of the fracture reduction tool may extend away from the fracture location in a manner that does not interfere with access to the fracture and may be positioned such that the flexible linker does not block access to the fracture.

[0043] At 1006, the wires or pins are secured to the bone fragments of the fracture and/or the surgical tool(s) are adjusted to grip the bone fragment(s). For example, a first pair of K-wires extending through the first baseplate may be inserted into a first bone fragment and a second pair of K-wires extending through the second baseplate may be inserted into a second bone fragment. The positioning of the wires or pins into the bone fragments may be guided by intraoperative x- ray or another suitable imaging technique.

[0044] At 1008, one or more of the baseplates are moved and/or the surgical tool(s) is used to align the bone fragments. For example, via the baseplates and/or surgical tool(s), one or more of the bone fragments may be moved vertically, horizontally, laterally, rotated, etc., until the bone fragments are in a desired position. For example, in a first fracture reduction procedure, the fracture reduction tool may be used to rotate a first bone fragment by a suitable number of degrees (e.g., 15 degrees) and translate the first bone fragment a suitable distance (e.g., 5 mm) in order to align the first bone fragment with its mating fragment. In a second fracture reduction procedure, the fracture reduction tool may be used to translate a first bone fragment a first distance and a second bone fragment a different distance. In a third fracture reduction procedure, the fracture reduction tool may be used to distract the two bone fragments (e.g., move the bone fragments away from each other) and then translate, rotate, etc., one or both of the bone fragments to bring the fragments into alignment. In this way, the fracture reduction tool may be used in a variety of clinical scenarios and may take the place of multiple different fracture reduction tools. The position of the fracture reduction tool when the bone fragments are in the desired position may be referred to as the set position of the fracture reduction tool. As indicated at 1010, once the fracture reduction tool is in the set position, the fracture reduction tool may be held in place via a locking device of the fracture reduction tool. For example, a handle of a knob of the locking device may be rotated in a first direction to tension a central cable extending from the first baseplate to the second baseplate and through the flexible linker until the locking device reaches a locked position, and the tensioned cable may act to keep the flexible linker and baseplates in the set position. In some examples, the internal friction of the flexible linker itself (e.g., the friction between the coils of the gooseneck) may be sufficient to hold the fracture reduction tool in the set position and thus actuation of the locking device may not be performed.

[0045] At 1012, method 1000 includes implanting definitive hardware into the patient to set the fracture. For example, pins, rods, plates, and/or screws may be implanted to permanently hold the bone fragments in the desired position. At least a portion of the definitive hardware may be implanted while the fracture reduction tool is secured to the patient. The definitive hardware may be implanted under guidance of intraoperative x-ray, for example. At 1014, method 1000 includes removing the wires or pins of the fracture reduction tool from the patient (e.g., pulling the wires or pins out from the bone fragments) and/or releasing the surgical tool(s) and removing the fracture reduction tool from the patient. Once the definitive hardware has been implanted, the fracture reduction tool is no longer needed to maintain the bone fragments in the desired position, and thus the fracture reduction tool is removed. To remove the fracture reduction tool, the wires or pins extending through the baseplates are removed from the patient and the fracture reduction tool is moved off the patient. In some examples, before moving the fracture reduction tool, the tool is unlocked by rotating the handle of the knob of the locking device in a second direction to release the tension on the central cable. At 1016, the fracture reduction tool, and if included, the surgical tool(s) are sterilized via a suitable sterilization process (e.g., washing with a cleaning fluid and then autoclaving). Method 1000 then ends.

[0046] The fracture reduction tool may be used during reduction of simple fractures (e.g., comprising only two bone fragments), as described, and may be used during reduction of segmental fractures (comprising more than two bone fragments). As an example, for a segmental fracture comprising three bone fragments, reduction on two of the fragments may be performed with the fracture reduction tool as described (to thereby reduce the number of fragments from three to two) and then reduction with the remaining fragment and the previously-coupled two fragments may be performed with the fracture reduction tool (to thereby reduce the number of fragments to one). In some examples, more than one fracture reduction tool can be used on the same patient at the same time. Further, the fracture reduction tool disclosed herein may be used to reduce fractures, as described, and may also be used during osteotomies (e.g., purposeful “fractures” created by a surgeon). During an osteotomy, the surgeon may cut a bone to change the shape or alignment of the bone. The fracture reduction tool may be applied to hold the bone during the cutting of the bone and/or position the resultant bone fragments in a desired position after the bone has been cut. In this way, the fracture reduction tool may have multiple clinical uses.

[0047] The disclosure also provides support for a fracture reduction tool, comprising: a first baseplate, a second baseplate, and a flexible linker coupled between the first baseplate and the second baseplate, wherein the flexible linker comprises a gooseneck component configured to move and bend in multiple degrees of freedom. In a first example of the tool, the first baseplate and/or the second baseplate includes one or more apertures and/or fittings each configured to house a respective reduction component. In a second example of the tool, optionally including the first example, the first baseplate includes one or more first apertures and the second baseplate includes one or more second apertures, each aperture configured to house a respective orthopedic wire or pin. In a third example of the tool, optionally including one or both of the first and second examples, the first baseplate comprises a first wall and a second wall, opposite the first wall, and wherein the one or more first apertures includes at least two apertures on the first wall and at least two apertures on the second wall. In a fourth example of the tool, optionally including one or more or each of the first through third examples, the first baseplate and/or the second baseplate includes a fitting configured to couple to a surgical tool. In a fifth example of the tool, optionally including one or more or each of the first through fourth examples, the system fracture reduction tool comprises: a locking device that, when actuated to a locked position, is configured to hold the flexible linker in a set position. In a sixth example of the tool, optionally including one or more or each of the first through fifth examples, the locking device comprises a central cable and a knob positioned on the second baseplate, the central cable extending through the flexible linker and terminating at a first end at the first baseplate and at a second end at a shaft of the knob, the shaft configured to rotate to the locked position to tension the central cable and hold the flexible linker in the set position. In a seventh example of the tool, optionally including one or more or each of the first through sixth examples, the first baseplate and the second baseplate are permanently coupled to the flexible linker. In an eighth example of the tool, optionally including one or more or each of the first through seventh examples, the first baseplate and the second baseplate are each hollow with open ends. In a ninth example of the tool, optionally including one or more or each of the first through eighth examples, the flexible linker includes a plurality of perforations. [0048] The disclosure also provides support for a method for performing fracture reduction using a fracture reduction tool, comprising: positioning the fracture reduction tool relative to a patient, coupling a first baseplate of the fracture reduction tool to a first bone fragment of the patient via a first reduction component, coupling a second baseplate of the fracture reduction tool to a second bone fragment of the patient via a second reduction component, adjusting one or more of the first baseplate and the second baseplate to a set position that brings the first bone fragment and the second bone fragment to a desired position, and holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via a flexible linker coupled between the first baseplate and the second baseplate. In a first example of the method, holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via the flexible linker comprises holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via internal friction of the flexible linker. In a second example of the method, optionally including the first example, holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via the flexible linker comprises holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position by tensioning a cable that extends from the first baseplate to the second baseplate through the flexible linker. In a third example of the method, optionally including one or both of the first and second examples, adjusting one or more of the first baseplate and the second baseplate to the set position comprises one or more of translating, rotating, and tilting one or more of the first baseplate and the second baseplate to the set position. In a fourth example of the method, optionally including one or more or each of the first through third examples, coupling the first baseplate to the first bone fragment via the first reduction component comprises coupling the first baseplate to the first bone fragment via a first orthopedic wire extending through a first aperture of the first baseplate and into the first bone fragment, and wherein coupling the second baseplate to the second bone fragment via the second reduction component comprises coupling the second baseplate to the second bone fragment via a second orthopedic wire extending through a second aperture of the second baseplate and into the second bone fragment.

[0049] FIGS. 1-9 show example configurations with relative positioning of the various components. If shown directly contacting each other, or directly coupled, then such elements may be referred to as directly contacting or directly coupled, respectively, at least in one example. Similarly, elements shown contiguous or adjacent to one another may be contiguous or adjacent to each other, respectively, at least in one example. As an example, components laying in facesharing contact with each other may be referred to as in face-sharing contact. As another example, elements positioned apart from each other with only a space there-between and no other components may be referred to as such, in at least one example. As yet another example, elements shown above/below one another, at opposite sides to one another, or to the 1 eft/right of one another may be referred to as such, relative to one another. Further, as shown in the figures, a topmost element or point of element may be referred to as a “top” of the component and a bottommost element or point of the element may be referred to as a “bottom” of the component, in at least one example. As used herein, top/bottom, upper/lower, above/below, may be relative to a vertical axis of the figures and used to describe positioning of elements of the figures relative to one another. As such, elements shown above other elements are positioned vertically above the other elements, in one example. As yet another example, shapes of the elements depicted within the figures may be referred to as having those shapes (e g., such as being circular, straight, planar, curved, rounded, chamfered, angled, or the like). Additionally, elements co-axial with one another may be referred to as such, in one example. Further, elements shown intersecting one another may be referred to as intersecting elements or intersecting one another, in at least one example. Further still, an element shown within another element or shown outside of another element may be referred as such, in one example. In other examples, elements offset from one another may be referred to as such.

[0050] The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and non-obvious. These claims may refer to “an” element or “a first” element or the equivalent thereof. Such claims should be understood to include incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Other combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of the present claims or through presentation of new claims in this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are regarded as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A fracture reduction tool, comprising: a first baseplate; a second baseplate; and a flexible linker coupled between the first baseplate and the second baseplate, wherein the flexible linker comprises a gooseneck component configured to move and bend in multiple degrees of freedom.

2. The fracture reduction tool of claim 1, wherein the first baseplate and/or the second baseplate includes one or more apertures and/or fittings each configured to house a respective reduction component.

3. The fracture reduction tool of claim 2, wherein the first baseplate includes one or more first apertures and the second baseplate includes one or more second apertures, each aperture configured to house a respective orthopedic wire or pin.

4. The fracture reduction tool of claim 3, wherein the first baseplate comprises a first wall and a second wall, opposite the first wall, and wherein the one or more first apertures includes at least two apertures on the first wall and at least two apertures on the second wall.

5. The fracture reduction tool of claim 2, wherein the first baseplate and/or the second baseplate includes a fitting configured to couple to a surgical tool.

6. The fracture reduction tool of claim 1, further comprising a locking device that, when actuated to a locked position, is configured to hold the flexible linker in a set position.

7. The fracture reduction tool of claim 6, wherein the locking device comprises a central cable and a knob positioned on the second baseplate, the central cable extending through the flexible linker and terminating at a first end at the first baseplate and at a second end at a shaft of the knob, the shaft configured to rotate to the locked position to tension the central cable and hold the flexible linker in the set position.

8. The fracture reduction tool of claim 1, wherein the first baseplate and the second baseplate are permanently coupled to the flexible linker.

9. The fracture reduction tool of claim 1, wherein the first baseplate and the second baseplate are each hollow with open ends.

10. The fracture reduction tool of claim 1, wherein the flexible linker includes a plurality of perforations.

11. A method for performing fracture reduction using a fracture reduction tool, comprising: positioning the fracture reduction tool relative to a patient; coupling a first baseplate of the fracture reduction tool to a first bone fragment of the patient via a first reduction component; coupling a second baseplate of the fracture reduction tool to a second bone fragment of the patient via a second reduction component; adjusting one or more of the first baseplate and the second baseplate to a set position that brings the first bone fragment and the second bone fragment to a desired position; and holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via a flexible linker coupled between the first baseplate and the second baseplate.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via the flexible linker comprises holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via internal friction of the flexible linker.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position via the flexible linker comprises holding the first baseplate and the second baseplate in the set position by tensioning a cable that extends from the first baseplate to the second baseplate through the flexible linker.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein adjusting one or more of the first baseplate and the second baseplate to the set position comprises one or more of translating, rotating, and tilting one or more of the first baseplate and the second baseplate to the set position.

15. The method of claim 11 , wherein coupling the first baseplate to the first bone fragment via the first reduction component comprises coupling the first baseplate to the first bone fragment via a first orthopedic wire extending through a first aperture of the first baseplate and into the first bone fragment, and wherein coupling the second baseplate to the second bone fragment via the second reduction component comprises coupling the second baseplate to the second bone fragment via a second orthopedic wire extending through a second aperture of the second baseplate and into the second bone fragment.