Directional bone fixation device
US5716358A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 2, 1994 |
| Grant date | Feb 10, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 2, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2002/30838
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A bone fixation device such as a screw, pin, staple, cable or anchor has a microtextured contact surface to enhance installation or gripping characteristics, preferably by providing directional or anisotropic engagement. A surface texture comprised of patterned microfeatures imparts a roughness or actual mechanical engagement that prevents loosening. In different embodiments the features resemble an array of microbumps or pyramids, or anisotropic features such as rasp teeth, shingles, or slanted cantilevered fiber/rods. The use of microbumps present a smaller surface area when moving, while providing full area contact after the surfaces have relaxed or decompressed; installation may be effected with low force, while high static or resting friction prevents disengagement. Features with directional asymmetry or angled suspension allow the textured surface to slide or deflect when the fixation device moves in one direction, while presenting a high resistance to torque or linear motion when moved in the other direction. Manufacturing is achieved with ion beams or directional treatment with energetic radiation, and regular arrays of the microfeatures may be produced as stationary surfac…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.