Bidirectional rod-hook locking mechanism
US5683393A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 1996 |
| Grant date | Nov 4, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/7041
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A bidirectional rod locking mechanism for use with rod coupling elements of orthopaedic rod apparatus includes a rod coupling element having a hook-shaped rod receiving end and a threaded axial bore. The axial bore is disposed so close to the hook-shaped portion that the medial portion of the hole protrudes through the inner surface of the hook portion. A contoured threaded shaft is advanced into the bore such that the contoured medial portion thereof aligns with the inner surface of the hook to permit the receipt therein of a rod. The threadable translation of the shaft in the appropriate direction causes a misalignment of the contoured medial portion in a manner which prevents the rod from being removed from the hook-shaped receiving locus.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.