WO1999038448A1 - A fixation device for a bone fracture - Google Patents

A fixation device for a bone fracture Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1999038448A1
WO1999038448A1 PCT/GB1999/000281 GB9900281W WO9938448A1 WO 1999038448 A1 WO1999038448 A1 WO 1999038448A1 GB 9900281 W GB9900281 W GB 9900281W WO 9938448 A1 WO9938448 A1 WO 9938448A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
bone
fastening
fixation device
plate
fingers
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB1999/000281
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
David Paul Fitzpatrick
Raphael Stephane Pascaud
Original Assignee
Depuy International Limited
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 Depuy International Limited filed Critical Depuy International Limited
Priority to AU22895/99A priority Critical patent/AU2289599A/en
Publication of WO1999038448A1 publication Critical patent/WO1999038448A1/en

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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
    • A61B17/80—Cortical plates, i.e. bone plates; Instruments for holding or positioning cortical plates, or for compressing bones attached to cortical plates

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a fixation device for a bone fracture.
  • the device comprises a plate which is arcuate when viewed along its length and is particularly suitable for use with a bone that is generally elongate so that the plate can be fitted around the bone.
  • EP-A-24635 discloses an internal fixation device for a bone fracture. It comprises a metallic plate having an arcuate shape so that it can be positioned around the fractured bone, and internally projecting teeth formed on two edges. It can be secured to a bone at a fracture site by deforming the plate to force the teeth to engage the bone.
  • the indentations in the bone caused by forcing the teeth to engage the bone can give rise to a line of weakness in the bone extending along the axis of the bone.
  • the present invention provides a fracture fixation device which has an array of inwardly directed fastening projections along each of its opposite edges which are arranged so that lines extending along respective edges of the plate joining adjacent fastening projections each have a wavy configuration.
  • the invention provides a fixation device for a bone fracture, which comprises a plate which is arcuate when viewed along its length so that it can be fitted around a bone in the region of the fracture, the plate having a body portion and an array of inwardly directed fastening projections along each of its opposite edges which can fixedly engage the bone along its length when the plate is positioned around the bone and its edges are subjected to an inward clamping force, the fastening projections being arranged so that lines extending along respective edges of the plate joining adjacent fastening projections each have a wavy configuration.
  • the arrangement of fastening projections on the edges of the plate in lines which have a wavy configuration can reduce the tendency for the projections to create a longitudinally extending line of weakness in a bone when the plate has been deformed inwardly to cause the projections to engage the bone, compared with a device such as the one disclosed in EP-A-24635 in which a line joining the bone-engaging teeth on each edge is straight.
  • a device such as the one disclosed in EP-A-24635 in which a line joining the bone-engaging teeth on each edge is straight.
  • the wavy configuration of the line which joins the fastening projections will generally be such that the line crosses a reference line extending generally along the device following the configuration of the body portion at several points.
  • the reference line will be essentially straight.
  • the device of the invention might however be curved for use on a curved bone, in which case the reference line will be curved.
  • the degree of the waviness of the line which joins the. projections will depend on the length of the device and the spacing between the projections. It can be preferred for the projections to be spaced substantially evenly along the edges of the device.
  • the wavy configuration of the line which joins the projection is substantially even along the length of the device.
  • the ratio of the distance between adjacent troughs or peaks to the spacing between the projections is approximately equal to an integer.
  • the ratio might have a value of 3, 4 or more.
  • the ratio of the distance between adjacent troughs to the spacing between the projections is about 2.
  • the ratio of the distance between adjacent troughs or peaks to the spacing between the projections will generally have a value that is not more than about 10, preferably not more than about 7, more preferably not more than about 5, for example not more than about 3.
  • the plate comprises two arrays of fastening fingers arranged along the said opposite edges of the plate, the fastening projections being provided on the fastening fingers.
  • the fastening fingers will each extend from the axially extending spine provided by the body section of the plate so that they can be deformed inwardly individually to cause the fastening projections to engage the bone.
  • This arrangement has the advantage of facilitating the inward deformation of the plate, allowing the plate to be deformed inwardly appropriately at spaced apart points along its length to accommodate the configuration of the bone that is being treated.
  • the fastening fingers can be tapered inwardly along their lengths towards their ends. This has the advantage of minimising concentration of stress at the root of the finger where it is joined to the spine of the body portion of the device, leaving the fingers flexible towards their ends so that inward deformation of fingers in the region towards their ends is facilitated.
  • the wavy configuration of the line joining adjacent fastening projections can be provided by appropriate selection of the length of the fastening fingers. It can be preferred for the fastening fingers in each array are arranged in a plurality of sets (for example first and second sets) in which fastening fingers of each set having a fastening finger of the second set on each side, the length of each fastening finger of the first set being less than the length of each of the adjacent fastening fingers of the second set.
  • the ratio discussed above of the distance between adjacent troughs or peaks to the spacing between the projections can be selected by appropriate selection of the numbers of fingers in the first and second sets.
  • the ratio can have a value of 2 when there are equal numbers of fingers in the first and second sets, with one fixation finger of the second set between each pair of adjacent fastening fingers of the first set.
  • the lengths of the fingers of the first set are approximately equal.
  • the lengths of the fingers of the second set are approximately equal.
  • variations in the lengths of the fingers of one or both of the first and second sets might be relied on to provide desired configurations of device.
  • variations in the lengths of the fingers might be relied on to create a product with a curved configuration or a configuration in which the transverse dimension of the device changes along at least part of its length (for example in the manner of a taper).
  • the fixation device of the invention has a plurality of inwardly extending depressions formed in its body portion which can engage the surface of the bone. These can reduce movement of the fixation device relative to a bone which is engaged along its sides by the fastening projections on the edges of the plate, providing extra stability to the joint between the bone and the device.
  • the provision of depressions in the plate of a device of the type with which the invention is concerned is disclosed .and claimed in a patent application filed with the present application entitled A Fixation Device for a Bone Fracture, claiming priority from UK patent application no. 9801986.2, bearing agents' reference PI 0674 WO. Subject matter disclosed in the specification of that application is incorporated in the specification of the present application by this reference.
  • the depressions have a cutting edge which can form an indented impression in the surface of the bone when pressed against the surface.
  • At least one of the depressions can be perforated so that it can receive a fastener which can pass through the depression and penetrate the bone to fasten the plate to the bone.
  • one, two or more of the depressions might accommodate fasteners (such as bone screws) to fasten the device to the bone.
  • the depressions which engage the bone, and which preferably form an indented impression in the surface of the bone might be some or all of the depressions in which fasteners are received.
  • depressions to engage the surface of the bone has the additional advantage that the plate can be held spaced apart from the bone over much of its area. This facilitates access to the bone tissue of body fluids so as to minimise any adverse effects that might otherwise result from fixing a plate to natural bone tissue.
  • the depressions are arranged in at least two spaced apart linear arrays, the arrays extending along the plate parallel to the axis thereof.
  • the arcuate cross-sectional shape of the device will be selected according to the size and nature of the bone on which the device is to be used. It will generally be desirable for the plate to extend at least halfway around the bone.
  • the arcuate shape need not be circular; whether or not it is circular, it is preferred that it extend through an angle of between about 150° and 210° so that the points at which the fastening projections engage the surface of the bone are approximately diametrically opposite to one another. The fastening projections on the opposite edges of the plate will then extend approximately directly towards one another. -5-
  • the device will generally be made from a single plate of one material, although devices formed from two or more pieces, of a common material or different materials.
  • the material(s) of the plate will be selected according to the physical requirements placed on the device when in use and to the requirements for compatibility with materials with which the device will come into contact when in use.
  • the material will generally be metallic. Biocompatible titanium based alloys, stainless steels, and cobalt chromium based steels might be suitable for some applications. Polymeric materials might be useful for some applications, in particular in which the stresses to which the device is exposed in use are small. Materials which are able to be resorbed after implantation might be useful for some applications.
  • the techniques used for making the device will depend on factors such as its configuration and the materials being used.
  • the device might be made using a moulding or casting operation. It might be made by forming a sheet substrate. Fastening fingers might then be formed by cutting.
  • Fastening projections can be formed by bending when they are formed integrally with the body portion of the device. The fastening projections are preferably sharpened to facilitate engagement with the bone. Depressions can be formed by punching. Cutting edges can be formed on the depressions where they contact the bone by grinding.
  • the device of the invention can be applied to the long bones of the leg and arm. It finds particular application in bridging a fracture of the femur towards its proximal end, in particular in the case of a femur in which a femoral stem component of a hip prosthesis has been implanted, which has fractured at about the bottom of the stem. A similar application would be in the case of a fractured humerus.
  • Figure 1 is a plan view of a fixation device according to the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a side view of the fixation device shown in Figure 1.
  • -6- Figure 3 is .an end view of the fixation device shown in Figure 1.
  • Figure 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view through the fixation device shown in Figure 1 , on the line A-A.
  • Figure 5 is a transverse view, partially in section, through the device shown in Figure 1 in place on a bone.
  • FIG. 1 show a fixation device 2 which is formed from a titanium based alloy or a stainless steel.
  • the device is generally arcuate when viewed along its length (as can be seen in Figure 3). It has a body portion 4 and an array of inwardly directed fastening projections 6 along each of its opposite edges 7, 8.
  • Each of the fastening projections is provided on a fastening finger 9 which is tapered inwardly along its length (as can be seen in Figure 2), being relatively wide at its root and no wider than the fastening projection 6 itself that is provided at its tip.
  • the fastening projections 6 are arranged on the fastening fingers 9 so that the projections on opposite sides of the device are directed towards one another.
  • the lengths of the fastening fingers 9 alternate along the length of the fixation device so that a line 10 joining the fastening projections 6 has a wavy configuration (as can be seen in Figure 2.
  • the alternating lengths of the fastening fingers means that the fingers can be divided into first and second sets 11, 12, with each fastening finger of the first set having a fastening finger of the second set on each side. Because there are only first and second sets of fastening fingers in the embodiment shown in the drawings, fastening fingers of the second set are immediately adjacent to a fastening finger of the first set. If there were a third length of fastening finger forming a third set of fingers, there would be a finger of the second set on each side of each finger of the first set, but not necessarily immediately adjacent thereto.
  • Each of the fastening projections 6 has a sharpened cutting edge 14 at its tip. Each edge is sharpened by virtue of continuation of the taper of the fastening finger on which the -7- projection is located, and also a reduction in thickness of the fastening projection towards its tip.
  • the body portion 4 of the fixation device has a plurality of depressions 20 formed in it, which are directed inwardly which can engage the surface of a bone on which the device is to be used.
  • the depressions are circuit when viewed from above, and are perforated so that they can receive a fastener such as a screw.
  • the depressions are formed by punching so that there is a recess 22 in the plate, opposite to each projection on the surface that faces away from a bone when the fixation device is in use.
  • the recess can accommodate the countersunk head of the fastener screw so that the screw presents a substantially flush surface with the body section.
  • the fixation device that is shown in the drawings can be formed from a sheet of a selected material by creating an appropriate profile using appropriate cutting techniques, and forming it into an arcuate configuration by bending.
  • Cutting edges on the fastening projections can be formed by grinding techniques.
  • the cutting edges on the depressions can be formed by a rotating grinding tool.
  • the depressions can be formed by a punching technique.
  • the dimensions of a device which might be used to fix a fracture in the femur might be in the following ranges: -8-
  • Figure 5 shows the fixation device in use, positioned around a fractured bone 30 so as to span the fracture.
  • the body portion is positioned so that at least some of the depressions 20 are in contact with the surface of the bone.
  • the side edges 7, 8 of the fixation device are forced inwardly towards one another so that the fastening projections 6 form an indented impression in the side surfaces of the bone.
  • the wavy configuration of the line 10 which joins the fastening projections means that the fastening projections do not create a continuous straight line of weakness in the bone.
  • the fixation device is further secured to the bone by means of screws 32 inserted through the perforations in the depressions 20 in the body portion of the device. This can facilitate the formation of indented impressions in the surface of the bone by the cutting edges 14 of the depressions 20. The fixation device can then provide stability of the bone during healing of the fracture.

Abstract

A fixation device for a bone fracture comprises a plate which is arcuate when viewed along its length so that it can be fitted around a bone in the region of the fracture. The plate has a body portion and an array of inwardly directed fastening projections along each of its opposite edges which can fixedly engage the bone along its length when the plate is positioned around the bone and its edges are subjected to an inward clamping force. The fastening projections are arranged so that lines extending along respective edges of the plate joining adjacent fastening projections each have a wavy configuration.

Description

-1- A FIXATION DEVICE FOR A BONE FRACTURE
This invention relates to a fixation device for a bone fracture. The device comprises a plate which is arcuate when viewed along its length and is particularly suitable for use with a bone that is generally elongate so that the plate can be fitted around the bone.
EP-A-24635 discloses an internal fixation device for a bone fracture. It comprises a metallic plate having an arcuate shape so that it can be positioned around the fractured bone, and internally projecting teeth formed on two edges. It can be secured to a bone at a fracture site by deforming the plate to force the teeth to engage the bone.
The indentations in the bone caused by forcing the teeth to engage the bone can give rise to a line of weakness in the bone extending along the axis of the bone.
The present invention provides a fracture fixation device which has an array of inwardly directed fastening projections along each of its opposite edges which are arranged so that lines extending along respective edges of the plate joining adjacent fastening projections each have a wavy configuration.
Accordingly, in one aspect, the invention provides a fixation device for a bone fracture, which comprises a plate which is arcuate when viewed along its length so that it can be fitted around a bone in the region of the fracture, the plate having a body portion and an array of inwardly directed fastening projections along each of its opposite edges which can fixedly engage the bone along its length when the plate is positioned around the bone and its edges are subjected to an inward clamping force, the fastening projections being arranged so that lines extending along respective edges of the plate joining adjacent fastening projections each have a wavy configuration.
The arrangement of fastening projections on the edges of the plate in lines which have a wavy configuration can reduce the tendency for the projections to create a longitudinally extending line of weakness in a bone when the plate has been deformed inwardly to cause the projections to engage the bone, compared with a device such as the one disclosed in EP-A-24635 in which a line joining the bone-engaging teeth on each edge is straight. The significance of this advantage will be readily appreciated.
The wavy configuration of the line which joins the fastening projections will generally be such that the line crosses a reference line extending generally along the device following the configuration of the body portion at several points. When the device of the invention is essentially straight for use on a straight bone, the reference line will be essentially straight. The device of the invention might however be curved for use on a curved bone, in which case the reference line will be curved. The degree of the waviness of the line which joins the. projections will depend on the length of the device and the spacing between the projections. It can be preferred for the projections to be spaced substantially evenly along the edges of the device. Preferably, the wavy configuration of the line which joins the projection is substantially even along the length of the device. Preferably, the ratio of the distance between adjacent troughs or peaks to the spacing between the projections is approximately equal to an integer. For example, the ratio might have a value of 3, 4 or more. Preferably, the ratio of the distance between adjacent troughs to the spacing between the projections is about 2.
Generally, the ratio of the distance between adjacent troughs or peaks to the spacing between the projections will generally have a value that is not more than about 10, preferably not more than about 7, more preferably not more than about 5, for example not more than about 3.
Preferably, the plate comprises two arrays of fastening fingers arranged along the said opposite edges of the plate, the fastening projections being provided on the fastening fingers. The fastening fingers will each extend from the axially extending spine provided by the body section of the plate so that they can be deformed inwardly individually to cause the fastening projections to engage the bone. This arrangement has the advantage of facilitating the inward deformation of the plate, allowing the plate to be deformed inwardly appropriately at spaced apart points along its length to accommodate the configuration of the bone that is being treated. -3-
The fastening fingers can be tapered inwardly along their lengths towards their ends. This has the advantage of minimising concentration of stress at the root of the finger where it is joined to the spine of the body portion of the device, leaving the fingers flexible towards their ends so that inward deformation of fingers in the region towards their ends is facilitated.
The wavy configuration of the line joining adjacent fastening projections can be provided by appropriate selection of the length of the fastening fingers. It can be preferred for the fastening fingers in each array are arranged in a plurality of sets (for example first and second sets) in which fastening fingers of each set having a fastening finger of the second set on each side, the length of each fastening finger of the first set being less than the length of each of the adjacent fastening fingers of the second set. The ratio discussed above of the distance between adjacent troughs or peaks to the spacing between the projections can be selected by appropriate selection of the numbers of fingers in the first and second sets. For example, the ratio can have a value of 2 when there are equal numbers of fingers in the first and second sets, with one fixation finger of the second set between each pair of adjacent fastening fingers of the first set. There can be additional sets of fastening fingers, for example, third and fourth sets.
Preferably, the lengths of the fingers of the first set are approximately equal. Preferably, the lengths of the fingers of the second set .are approximately equal. However, variations in the lengths of the fingers of one or both of the first and second sets might be relied on to provide desired configurations of device. For example, variations in the lengths of the fingers might be relied on to create a product with a curved configuration or a configuration in which the transverse dimension of the device changes along at least part of its length (for example in the manner of a taper).
Preferably, the fixation device of the invention has a plurality of inwardly extending depressions formed in its body portion which can engage the surface of the bone. These can reduce movement of the fixation device relative to a bone which is engaged along its sides by the fastening projections on the edges of the plate, providing extra stability to the joint between the bone and the device. The provision of depressions in the plate of a device of the type with which the invention is concerned is disclosed .and claimed in a patent application filed with the present application entitled A Fixation Device for a Bone Fracture, claiming priority from UK patent application no. 9801986.2, bearing agents' reference PI 0674 WO. Subject matter disclosed in the specification of that application is incorporated in the specification of the present application by this reference.
Preferably, the depressions have a cutting edge which can form an indented impression in the surface of the bone when pressed against the surface. At least one of the depressions can be perforated so that it can receive a fastener which can pass through the depression and penetrate the bone to fasten the plate to the bone. In use, one, two or more of the depressions might accommodate fasteners (such as bone screws) to fasten the device to the bone. The depressions which engage the bone, and which preferably form an indented impression in the surface of the bone, might be some or all of the depressions in which fasteners are received.
The use of depressions to engage the surface of the bone has the additional advantage that the plate can be held spaced apart from the bone over much of its area. This facilitates access to the bone tissue of body fluids so as to minimise any adverse effects that might otherwise result from fixing a plate to natural bone tissue.
Preferably, the depressions are arranged in at least two spaced apart linear arrays, the arrays extending along the plate parallel to the axis thereof.
The arcuate cross-sectional shape of the device will be selected according to the size and nature of the bone on which the device is to be used. It will generally be desirable for the plate to extend at least halfway around the bone. The arcuate shape need not be circular; whether or not it is circular, it is preferred that it extend through an angle of between about 150° and 210° so that the points at which the fastening projections engage the surface of the bone are approximately diametrically opposite to one another. The fastening projections on the opposite edges of the plate will then extend approximately directly towards one another. -5-
The device will generally be made from a single plate of one material, although devices formed from two or more pieces, of a common material or different materials. The material(s) of the plate will be selected according to the physical requirements placed on the device when in use and to the requirements for compatibility with materials with which the device will come into contact when in use. The material will generally be metallic. Biocompatible titanium based alloys, stainless steels, and cobalt chromium based steels might be suitable for some applications. Polymeric materials might be useful for some applications, in particular in which the stresses to which the device is exposed in use are small. Materials which are able to be resorbed after implantation might be useful for some applications.
The techniques used for making the device will depend on factors such as its configuration and the materials being used. The device might be made using a moulding or casting operation. It might be made by forming a sheet substrate. Fastening fingers might then be formed by cutting. Fastening projections can be formed by bending when they are formed integrally with the body portion of the device. The fastening projections are preferably sharpened to facilitate engagement with the bone. Depressions can be formed by punching. Cutting edges can be formed on the depressions where they contact the bone by grinding.
The device of the invention can be applied to the long bones of the leg and arm. It finds particular application in bridging a fracture of the femur towards its proximal end, in particular in the case of a femur in which a femoral stem component of a hip prosthesis has been implanted, which has fractured at about the bottom of the stem. A similar application would be in the case of a fractured humerus.
The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a plan view of a fixation device according to the present invention.
Figure 2 is a side view of the fixation device shown in Figure 1. -6- Figure 3 is .an end view of the fixation device shown in Figure 1.
Figure 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view through the fixation device shown in Figure 1 , on the line A-A.
Figure 5 is a transverse view, partially in section, through the device shown in Figure 1 in place on a bone.
Referring to the drawings, which show a fixation device 2 which is formed from a titanium based alloy or a stainless steel. The device is generally arcuate when viewed along its length (as can be seen in Figure 3). It has a body portion 4 and an array of inwardly directed fastening projections 6 along each of its opposite edges 7, 8. Each of the fastening projections is provided on a fastening finger 9 which is tapered inwardly along its length (as can be seen in Figure 2), being relatively wide at its root and no wider than the fastening projection 6 itself that is provided at its tip.
As can be seen in Figure 3, the fastening projections 6 are arranged on the fastening fingers 9 so that the projections on opposite sides of the device are directed towards one another.
The lengths of the fastening fingers 9 alternate along the length of the fixation device so that a line 10 joining the fastening projections 6 has a wavy configuration (as can be seen in Figure 2. The alternating lengths of the fastening fingers means that the fingers can be divided into first and second sets 11, 12, with each fastening finger of the first set having a fastening finger of the second set on each side. Because there are only first and second sets of fastening fingers in the embodiment shown in the drawings, fastening fingers of the second set are immediately adjacent to a fastening finger of the first set. If there were a third length of fastening finger forming a third set of fingers, there would be a finger of the second set on each side of each finger of the first set, but not necessarily immediately adjacent thereto.
Each of the fastening projections 6 has a sharpened cutting edge 14 at its tip. Each edge is sharpened by virtue of continuation of the taper of the fastening finger on which the -7- projection is located, and also a reduction in thickness of the fastening projection towards its tip.
The body portion 4 of the fixation device has a plurality of depressions 20 formed in it, which are directed inwardly which can engage the surface of a bone on which the device is to be used. The depressions .are circuit when viewed from above, and are perforated so that they can receive a fastener such as a screw. In the illustrated embodiment, the depressions are formed by punching so that there is a recess 22 in the plate, opposite to each projection on the surface that faces away from a bone when the fixation device is in use. The recess can accommodate the countersunk head of the fastener screw so that the screw presents a substantially flush surface with the body section.
The edges 24 of the depressions which face towards the bone when in use are sharpened as can be seen in Figure 4.
The fixation device that is shown in the drawings can be formed from a sheet of a selected material by creating an appropriate profile using appropriate cutting techniques, and forming it into an arcuate configuration by bending. Cutting edges on the fastening projections can be formed by grinding techniques. For example, the cutting edges on the depressions can be formed by a rotating grinding tool. The depressions can be formed by a punching technique.
The dimensions of a device which might be used to fix a fracture in the femur, might be in the following ranges: -8-
Dimension Length (mm)
A Length of device 70 - 150
B Spacing between finger tips 5 - 20
C Length of projections 4 - 8
D Width of fingers at tips 2 - 5
E Spacing between depressions 18 - 40
F Diameter of depressions 10 - 15
G Diameter of perforations 3 - 5
H Internal transverse 30 - 50
Figure imgf000010_0001
Figure 5 shows the fixation device in use, positioned around a fractured bone 30 so as to span the fracture. The body portion is positioned so that at least some of the depressions 20 are in contact with the surface of the bone. When so located, the side edges 7, 8 of the fixation device are forced inwardly towards one another so that the fastening projections 6 form an indented impression in the side surfaces of the bone. The wavy configuration of the line 10 which joins the fastening projections means that the fastening projections do not create a continuous straight line of weakness in the bone.
The fixation device is further secured to the bone by means of screws 32 inserted through the perforations in the depressions 20 in the body portion of the device. This can facilitate the formation of indented impressions in the surface of the bone by the cutting edges 14 of the depressions 20. The fixation device can then provide stability of the bone during healing of the fracture.

Claims

-9- CLAIMS:
1. A fixation device for a bone fracture, which comprises a plate which is arcuate when viewed along its length so that it can be fitted around a bone in the region of the fracture, the plate having a body portion and an array of inwardly directed fastening projections along each of its opposite edges which can fixedly engage the bone along its length when the plate is positioned around the bone and its edges are subjected to an inward clamping force, the fastening projections being arranged so that lines extending along respective edges of the plate joining adjacent fastening projections each have a wavy configuration.
2. A fixation device as claimed in claim 1, in which the plate comprises two arrays of fastening fingers arranged along the said opposite edges of the plate, the fastening projections being provided on the fastening fingers.
3. A fixation device as claimed in claim 2, in which the length of the fastening fingers varies along the length of the device so that the line which joins adjacent fastening projections has a wavy configuration.
4. A fixation device as claimed in claim 3, in which the fastening fingers in each array are arranged in first and second sets, each fastening finger of the first set having a fastening finger of the second set on each side, the length of each fastening finger of the first set being less than the length of each of the adjacent fastening fingers of the second set.
5. A fixation device as claimed in claim 4, in which there is one fixation finger of the second set between each pair of adjacent fastening fingers of the first set.
6. A fixation device as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5, in which the lengths of fastening fingers of the first set are approximately equal. -10-
7. A fixation device as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 6, in which the lengths of fastening fingers of the second set are approximately equal.
8. A fixation device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 7, in which the fastening fingers are tapered inwardly towards their ends.
9. A fixation device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, which includes a plurality of inwardly extending depressions formed in its body portion which can engage the surface of the bone.
10. A fixation device as claimed in claim 9, in which the depressions have a cutting edge which can form an indented impression in the surface of the bone when pressed against the surface.
11. A fixation device as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10, in which at least one of the depressions is perforated so that it can receive a fastener which can pass through the depression and penetrate the bone to fasten the plate to the bone.
12. A fixation device as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11, in which the depressions are arranged in at least two spaced apart linear arrays, the arrays extending along the plate parallel to the axis thereof.
PCT/GB1999/000281 1998-01-31 1999-01-27 A fixation device for a bone fracture WO1999038448A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU22895/99A AU2289599A (en) 1998-01-31 1999-01-27 A fixation device for a bone fracture

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB9801987.0A GB9801987D0 (en) 1998-01-31 1998-01-31 A fixation device for a bone fracture
GB9801987.0 1998-01-31

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Cited By (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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US8292898B2 (en) 2008-09-15 2012-10-23 Biomet C.V. Bending tools for bone plates and methods of using bending tools
WO2012135860A3 (en) * 2011-04-01 2013-03-21 Synthes Usa, Llc Posterior vertebral plating system
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US8657820B2 (en) 2009-10-12 2014-02-25 Tornier, Inc. Bone plate and keel systems
US8690916B2 (en) 2008-04-17 2014-04-08 Eduardo Gonzalez-Hernandez Soft tissue attachment system and clip
US8764808B2 (en) 2008-03-10 2014-07-01 Eduardo Gonzalez-Hernandez Bone fixation system
US8808333B2 (en) 2009-07-06 2014-08-19 Zimmer Gmbh Periprosthetic bone plates
US8834532B2 (en) 2009-07-07 2014-09-16 Zimmer Gmbh Plate for the treatment of bone fractures
US8870963B2 (en) 2010-10-27 2014-10-28 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
US8961573B2 (en) 2010-10-05 2015-02-24 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for facilitating repair and reattachment of comminuted bone portions
US9254154B2 (en) 2011-03-03 2016-02-09 Toby Orthopaedic, Inc. Anterior lesser tuberosity fixed angle fixation device and method of use associated therewith
US9271772B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2016-03-01 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
US9283008B2 (en) 2012-12-17 2016-03-15 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone plate for plate osteosynthesis and method for use thereof
US9333014B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-05-10 Eduardo Gonzalez-Hernandez Bone fixation and reduction apparatus and method for fixation and reduction of a distal bone fracture and malunion
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CN106308917A (en) * 2016-09-06 2017-01-11 河海大学常州校区 Bone fracture plate for comminuted femoral fracture
US9730797B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2017-08-15 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone joint replacement and repair assembly and method of repairing and replacing a bone joint
US11389209B2 (en) 2019-07-19 2022-07-19 Medos International Sarl Surgical plating systems, devices, and related methods

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WO2001041663A1 (en) * 1999-12-06 2001-06-14 Synthes Ag Chur Resorbable bone plate
US8574234B2 (en) 2003-11-21 2013-11-05 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Fracture fixation system
WO2006111096A1 (en) * 2005-04-21 2006-10-26 Rongkui Zhang Bone plate with centric hooks
US8764808B2 (en) 2008-03-10 2014-07-01 Eduardo Gonzalez-Hernandez Bone fixation system
US8690916B2 (en) 2008-04-17 2014-04-08 Eduardo Gonzalez-Hernandez Soft tissue attachment system and clip
US8292898B2 (en) 2008-09-15 2012-10-23 Biomet C.V. Bending tools for bone plates and methods of using bending tools
US8518088B2 (en) 2008-09-15 2013-08-27 Biomet C.V. Method of bending bone plate with bending tools
US9107712B2 (en) 2008-09-15 2015-08-18 Biomet C.V. Bone plate system for hand fractures and other small bones
US9668794B2 (en) 2009-07-06 2017-06-06 Zimmer Gmbh Periprosthetic bone plates
US11123118B2 (en) 2009-07-06 2021-09-21 Zimmer Gmbh Periprosthetic bone plates
US8808333B2 (en) 2009-07-06 2014-08-19 Zimmer Gmbh Periprosthetic bone plates
US8834532B2 (en) 2009-07-07 2014-09-16 Zimmer Gmbh Plate for the treatment of bone fractures
US8657820B2 (en) 2009-10-12 2014-02-25 Tornier, Inc. Bone plate and keel systems
US8961573B2 (en) 2010-10-05 2015-02-24 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for facilitating repair and reattachment of comminuted bone portions
US9271776B2 (en) 2010-10-05 2016-03-01 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for facilitating repair and reattachment of comminuted bone portions
US8870963B2 (en) 2010-10-27 2014-10-28 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
US10524919B2 (en) 2010-10-27 2020-01-07 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
US9757240B2 (en) 2010-10-27 2017-09-12 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
US11266506B2 (en) 2010-10-27 2022-03-08 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
WO2012119112A2 (en) * 2011-03-03 2012-09-07 Toby Orthopaedics, Llc Modular and non-modular cortical buttress device
WO2012119112A3 (en) * 2011-03-03 2013-01-10 Toby Orthopaedics, Llc Modular and non-modular cortical buttress device
US9254154B2 (en) 2011-03-03 2016-02-09 Toby Orthopaedic, Inc. Anterior lesser tuberosity fixed angle fixation device and method of use associated therewith
US20140180344A1 (en) * 2011-03-03 2014-06-26 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Modular and non-modular cortical buttress device
WO2012135860A3 (en) * 2011-04-01 2013-03-21 Synthes Usa, Llc Posterior vertebral plating system
US10959759B2 (en) 2011-04-01 2021-03-30 Depuy Synthesis Products, Inc. Posterior vertebral plating system
US9433443B2 (en) 2011-04-01 2016-09-06 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Posterior vertebral plating system
CN103491889B (en) * 2011-04-01 2016-10-12 新特斯有限责任公司 Vertebra way of escape plate fixation system
CN103491889A (en) * 2011-04-01 2014-01-01 新特斯有限责任公司 Posterior vertebral plating system
US8845697B2 (en) 2011-04-01 2014-09-30 DePuy Synthes Products, LLC Posterior vertebral plating system
US10045799B2 (en) 2011-04-01 2018-08-14 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Posterior vertebral plating system
US10188522B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2019-01-29 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System for replacement of at least a portion of a carpal articular surface of a radius
US9271772B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2016-03-01 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. System and method for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
US9730797B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2017-08-15 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone joint replacement and repair assembly and method of repairing and replacing a bone joint
US11285020B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2022-03-29 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone joint replacement and repair assembly and method of repairing and replacing a bone joint
US10299939B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2019-05-28 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone joint replacement and repair assembly and method of repairing and replacing a bone joint
US11129723B2 (en) 2011-10-27 2021-09-28 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc System and method for fracture replacement of comminuted bone fractures or portions thereof adjacent bone joints
US9402667B2 (en) 2011-11-09 2016-08-02 Eduardo Gonzalez-Hernandez Apparatus and method for use of the apparatus for fracture fixation of the distal humerus
US10835302B2 (en) 2012-12-17 2020-11-17 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone plate for plate osteosynthesis and method for use thereof
US9283008B2 (en) 2012-12-17 2016-03-15 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone plate for plate osteosynthesis and method for use thereof
US9956017B2 (en) 2012-12-17 2018-05-01 Toby Orthopaedics, Inc. Bone plate for plate osteosynthesis and method for use thereof
US11583324B2 (en) 2012-12-17 2023-02-21 Toby Orthopaedics, Llc Bone plate for plate osteosynthesis and method for use thereof
US9333014B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-05-10 Eduardo Gonzalez-Hernandez Bone fixation and reduction apparatus and method for fixation and reduction of a distal bone fracture and malunion
CN106308917A (en) * 2016-09-06 2017-01-11 河海大学常州校区 Bone fracture plate for comminuted femoral fracture
US11389209B2 (en) 2019-07-19 2022-07-19 Medos International Sarl Surgical plating systems, devices, and related methods

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