Apparatus and method of external skeletal support allowing for internal-external rotation
US6355037B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 5, 2000 |
| Grant date | Mar 12, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 5, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/6425
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An external skeletal fixation apparatus provides support about a joint such as the knee. The apparatus includes a first external support section with one or more rings rigidly supporting a first skeletal element (e.g., the femur) on one side of the joint and a second external support section, with two or more rings, rigidly supporting a second skeletal element (e.g., the tibia) on an opposite side of the joint. The apparatus further includes a hinged support section interconnecting the first and second external support sections in the vicinity of the joint such that the hinged support section pivots the joint about a generally lateral axis when the skeletal elements move through angular flexion or extension. The second external support section includes at least a first support ring element and a second support ring element rotatably coupled with the first support ring element. The first support ring element is connected with the hinged support section and the second support ring element is positioned to rigidly support the second skeletal element. Accordingly, the second support element rotates relative to the first support element with generally lateral rotation of the second skel…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.