Abstract: A fixator for use in the reconstruction of acute, chronic and traumatic injuries to the upper and lower extremities. The fixator has a unique clamping system that allows for the snapping in of pins and rails, and for multi-planar fixation of bones.

Abstract: A system for fixing a wire to a surface of an external fixator having a wire adapted to extend through bony structure fastened with respect to the surface. A bolt having a shaft which comprises a threaded section, a head section and at least one clamping element is provided wherein the bolt is adapted to extend through an opening in the external fixation element with a nut, and clamps the wire to the surface. A counter torque tool is used to provide a counter torque while fastening the wire with the bolt and the nut. The bolt comprises a counter torque opening and wherein the counter torque tool comprises a section which is adapted to engage into the counter torque opening of the bolt to apply the counter torque.

Abstract: An insert for a clamping element having two jaws for clamping a rod-shaped element comprises at least one jacket element. The jacket element can be inserted into one jaw each of the clamping element, thereby allowing the varying, especially reducing, the free space available for a rod. The insert also comprises at least one retaining section which fastens at least one part of the insert in or on at least one of the jaws of the clamping element. A clamping element can be provided with two jacket elements, interlinked via an undulated web, or two or three juxtaposed longitudinal grooves for receiving rods having different diameters.

Abstract: An external fixation device for holding bone fragments in place includes a housing having a number of rotationally adjustable pin holders, each of which is held by a clamping member that simultaneously clamps the pin holder within an internal mounting surface of the housing and a bone pin within the pin holder. For example, the device includes a number of internal mounting surfaces, each of which can include a single pin holder. A drill guide fitting into the internal mounting surfaces is used to protect soft tissue from bone pins and they are rotated during installation.

Abstract: A fixation clamp, more particularly for use in an external fixation system for holding bone fragments adjacent to each other with the help of fixation elements, has at least one clamping assembly having at least one reception to accommodate a fixation element along the longitudinal axis of the reception and at least one locking element extending through the clamping assemblies for blocking the position of the clamping assemblies in a defined angular position. Between said locking element and said at least one clamping assembly there is arranged a washer. The clamping assembly comprises a first contact surface which is spherical and convex and in that said washer comprises a second contact surface which is spherical and concave, wherein the first contact surface is in contact with the second contact surface.

Abstract: An adjustment tool for an external fixator comprises a fitting element for holding fast a clamping assembly of the external fixator. A positioning clamp is provided for fixing the adjustment tool on a rod of the external fixator near the clamping assembly. A connecting element is attached to the fitting element and the positioning clamp is adapted to move the fitting element towards to or away from the positioning clamp. The fitting element comprises a blocking sleeve adapted to push the uppermost jaw of the clamping assembly in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the clamping assembly to block the second upper most jaw against an abutment portion of the fitting element. The tool further comprises an actuation element within the blocking sleeve to actuate the locking element of the clamping assembly for releasing the rod within the clamping assembly without releasing the bone pin.

Abstract: A clamp assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw cooperatively positioned to receive the fixation element. A gate is displaceable relative to the first jaw and moveable between an open condition where the gate and the first jaw form an opening of a first size allowing introduction of the fixation element between the first and second jaws and a locking condition where the opening formed by the gate and the first jaw has a second size that prevents removal of the fixation element out from between the first and second jaws.

Abstract: A clamp includes an opening structurally arranged to receive a fixation element with a cam driven jaw. The clamping assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw disposed relative to the first jaw. The first and second jaws may be cooperatively positioned to receive the fixation element. A sliding cam is configured to displace relative the first and second jaws. The sliding cam may be associated with the first and second jaws to force the first jaw to vertically displace relative to the second jaw. In one aspect, the sliding cam is structured to vertically displace the first jaw enough to permit an external fixation element to be received between the first and second jaws.

Abstract: A fixation clamp, more particularly for use in an external fixation system for holding bone fragments adjacent to each other with the help of fixation elements, has at least one clamping assembly having at least one reception opening to accommodate a fixation element along the longitudinal axis of the reception opening. At least one locking element extends through the clamping assembly which locking element provides a clamping force to clamp the fixation element upon tensioning the locking element. The fixation clamp further comprises an actuation element which is in connection with the locking element such that the locking element is actuateable by means of the actuation element, and the actuation element is designed such that it is detachable from the locking element after use and that remounting onto the locking element is prevented after having detached the actuation element from the locking element.

Abstract: A fixation clamp for use in an external fixation system for holding bone fragments adjacent to each other with the help of fixation elements, has of at least one clamping assembly having at least one reception provided by means of grooves to accommodate a fixation element along the longitudinal axis of the reception. At least one locking element extends through the clamping assemblies for blocking the position of the clamping assemblies in a defined angular position. The clamping assembly comprises a first jaw and a second jaw which are in contact with each other via respective contact surfaces. The clamping assembly comprises at least two orientation devices that extend from and/or into said contact surfaces which at least two orientation devices serve to orient the first jaw with respect to the second jaw.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fixator (1) for treating a fracture dislocation injury, comprising: first (10) and second elements for piercing first and second (20) bones, separated by a joint; and first and second separators (30) arranged to engage with free ends of the first and second elements and to be variable in length.

Abstract: The present invention relates to orthopedic fixation systems, assemblies, devices and related methods for reduction or treatment of a fractured bone of a patient.

Abstract: The present invention regards an orthopedic device to be associated with the outside of a bone and of the type comprising a support rail, extended along a central longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the bone, at least two clamps mounted slidably along the axis on the support rail and supporting endosseous screws insertable into the bone, and a distractor/compressor device removably attachable to the two clamps by means of respective connection pins inserted into corresponding holes of each clamp, wherein each clamp comprises a clamp body having a base or lower jaw and a lid, or upper jaw as well as two screws for fixing the upper jaw to the lower jaw Advantageously the holes for the connection pins are aligned along a line that is extended substantially parallel to the axis with at least one hole for the connection pins of the remaining clamp also being aligned along the line, thus making the overall structure of the clamps mounted on the orthopedic device particularly compact.

Abstract: A clamping pin is provided for mounting in an opening of a medical device. The clamping pin comprises an axially extending screw, a first clamping element having a surface inclined to a longitudinal screw axis and provides a first part of a clamping section. A second clamping element has a surface inclined to the longitudinal axis and provides a second part of the clamping section which is complementary to the opening in the medical device. The inclined surfaces of the first and second clamping elements contact. A screw extends at least partly through both the first and second clamping elements. The screw engages one of the clamping elements such that the axial distance between the two clamping elements and the diameter of the clamping section that can come in contact with a surface of the opening in the medical device will be changed upon actuation of the screw.

Abstract: An external fixation component includes two capture members adapted to capture independently a first and a second element of an external fixation system. A rotation member is provided between the two capture members, coupled to both capture members such that the coupling allows the two capture members to rotate about three axes relative to each other. Each capture member comprises a central locking screw extending therethrough and defining a longitudinal axis of the associated capture member. The rotation member comprises two rotation blockers, each blocker providing one interface surface adapted to be in contact with a complementary interface surface of one of the capture members, each blocker further provides a surface opposite to the interface surface comprising an inner cylindrical surface. The rotation member comprises a central disc element forming a rolling surface as complementary surface to the inner cylindrical surface of the corresponding rotation blocker.

Abstract: A clamping device for an external fixation system includes a first clamp having an opening for receiving an external fixation element, the first clamp having an axle seat. A first base component includes a concave first surface and a second surface facing away from the first surface. The concave first surface is in selective engagement with the clamp. A swivel element comprises an axle component and a post component. The axle component is disposed on the axle seat of the first clamp. The post component extends from the axle component and has a length sized to extend from the axle component through a second external fixation clamp. The post component is arranged to swivel relative to the axle seat. Methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A clamp for an external fixation system includes a body having a bottom portion and semi-spherical top portion. The top portion has a threaded bore provided along a longitudinal axis: The clamp includes a clamp assembly having a base with a semi-spherical cavity and a lid positioned over the base to house at least one pin between the base and the lid. The base and the lid have a bore provided along a longitudinal axis thereof. A fastening member is provided that extends through the bore in the base and the lid of the clamp assembly and is secured within the threaded bore of the top portion of the body. The bores in the base and the lid have a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the fastening member.

Abstract: A medical apparatus for use with an outrigger and at least one fastening pin to reposition first and second portions of a bone of a mammalian body. The apparatus includes a framework and a first fastening assembly for coupling the framework to the outrigger and thus the at least one fastening pin and the first end portion of the bone. The first end portion of an elongate pin is provided with a sharpened tip for penetrating the second portion of the bone. A second fastening assembly couples the second end portion of the elongate pin to the framework. At least one adjustment assembly is carried by at least one of the framework and the first and second fastening assemblies for moving the first end portion of the elongate pin relative to the outrigger so as to reposition the second portion of the bone relative to the first portion of the bone. A method for using the apparatus is provided.

Abstract: A bolt is adapted to clamp a pin to an external fixator system. The bolt includes a shaft having a threaded section, a head section and a pin opening that is arranged opposite the threaded section and accommodates and clamps a pin or a wire to a plate or ring of an external fixator. The plate comprises at least one opening which accommodates the shaft and a surface against which the pin or the wire is clamped by the bolt. The pin opening comprises at least two edges extending essentially along the same direction as the pin opening such that the pin or wire to be clamped is contact with said edges.

Abstract: A clamping pin is intended to be inserted into and held in an opening of a medical device. The clamping pin comprises a screw having a longitudinal axis, a first clamping element having a surface inclined to the longitudinal axis and provides a first part of a clamping section. A second clamping element has a surface inclined to the longitudinal axis and provides a second part of the clamping section which is complementary to the opening in the medical device. The inclined surfaces of the first and second clamping elements are in contact. A screw extends at least partly through both the first and second clamping elements. The screw engages in one of the clamping elements such that the axial distance between the two clamping elements and the diameter of the clamping section that can come in contact with a surface of the opening in the medical device will be changed upon actuation of the screw.

Abstract: An accessory device for an external orthopedic fixator where the fixator has an external frame made up of frame components which surround the lower leg and ankle of a patient with one or more transfixation wires fixed thereto. The accessory device includes a walking plate which connects to one of the fixator frame components for supporting the sole of a patient's foot. The accessory device also includes a companion shroud which is wrapped about the fixator with the fixator being received within the interior of the shroud. The shroud has a width and height which are sufficient to conceal the fixator within the shroud interior. The shroud has fasteners which allow it to be easily installed and removed from about the fixator.

Abstract: An orthopedic apparatus is provided for bridging a first bone unit to a second bone unit. The apparatus is demonstrated on a finger joint, wherein one of the bones and/or ligaments and/or tendons of the joint is/are injured. A method for implanting and using the apparatus also is presented. The apparatus includes a reformably deformable span portion which is generally circular and preferably rhombic. By deforming or reforming the span portion, it can be repositioned laterally, and/or it can be rotated to allow range of rotary motion so as to promote healing.

Abstract: The fastening device in accordance with the invention is directed to a pin for securing the position of a part of a body, (for example, a head) for medical procedures. The fastening device can have an improved geometry, can be made from materials including unsubstituted, monosubstituted or multisubstituted polyphenylene, and/or silicon nitride ceramic, and can be made of one or more pieces. The fastening device in accordance with the invention produces improved performance with respect to the criteria of biocompatibility, ability to be sterilized, resistance to mechanical stress, and reduced artifact creation in medical imaging methods.

Abstract: An external fixator for a fractured distal radius including a first plurality of vertical passages for pins extending downward from a first pin mounting block into one or more bone fragments and one or more frame element apertures extending from an elongated frame element for pins extending downward from the device into the shaft of the radius. In addition, the elongated frame element includes a sliding pin slot with a sliding structure allowing a single pin to be moved to provide extension between the fragments and the shaft. A sliding internal plate including holes aligned with the first plurality of vertical passages is moved by a pair of setscrews to clamp the pins extending through the first plurality of vertical passages. The device also includes a second pin mounting block that extends downward parallel to the pins extending from first pin mounting block to hold pins directed laterally into the fragment(s).

Abstract: An orthopedic device for fixating bone parts includes a set of one or more bone fixation pins for engaging a bone piece, an elongated fixator body having an internally threaded bore extending longitudinally therethrough, a pair of opposed longitudinally extending slots in the fixator body, and a pin-holder received within the fixator body and configured to removably hold the set of one or more bone fixation pins. The pin-holder is longitudinally movable within the fixator body for controlling the position of the set of bone fixation pins within the fixator body. The fixator body also can be configured to removably hold a second set of one or more bone fixation pins at a location fixed along the fixator body.

Abstract: An external fixation clamp for attaching a fixation pin to a connecting rod, the clamp including a clamp body having a slot dimensioned to transversely receive the connecting rod and a fixation pin bore adapted to receive the fixation pin. The clamp body further includes a set screw bore for receiving a set screw, the set screw bore intersecting the slot and the fixation pin bore. The clamp further includes a set screw adapted to be received in the set screw bore and to extend into the slot and the fixation pin bore so clamping the connecting rod and fixation pin in place.

Abstract: An external fixation system for connecting one or more bone segments together to facilitate healing of bone. The system may include one or more rings and/or ring segments. One or more linear distractors and/or angular distractors may connect the rings to each other so as to allow for distraction and/or reduction/compression of a bone. Linear distractors may enable an operator to move the rings towards and away from each other, while angular distractors may enable an operator to angle the rings relative to each other. In an embodiment using angular distractors, one or more angular separation assemblies may be positioned between the rings. These separation assemblies may have joints which may two portions which may be angled relative to each other and connected directly or indirectly to the rings. Various fasteners (e.g., nuts) and/or tightening members may configured for quick movement along and selective tightening to various components.

Abstract: A telescopically adjustable strut for use with orthopedic external fixators has a first end and a second end and includes a universal-hinged connector provided at each of the first and second ends for connecting the strut to orthopedic external fixator base members. The universal-hinged connector is configured and adapted for pivoting the strut relative to the base members and to lock the universal-hinged connector at a desired angle.

Abstract: An external fixation assembly includes a plurality of hollow pins that are inserted into a patient's bone. Each pin has an interior bore and a plurality of apertures extending through the pin wall from the bore. The pin may be coupled to a source of vacuum pressure operable to create reduced pressure in the tissue surrounding the pin. A cover is placed around the pin and sealed to provide a fluid-tight enclosure that maintains reduced pressure around the pin. A method for applying external fixation using the fixator pins described above includes the steps of inserting each pin through a skin opening, positioning the pin apertures near selected tissue, covering the skin opening with a sealed enclosure, connecting the pins to a source of vacuum pressure, and activating the source of vacuum pressure to create reduced pressure in the patient's tissue at or near the bone.

Abstract: A bone compression and distraction system which has an apparatus and a plurality of pins. The apparatus includes a body, a worm screw and a pair of pin attachment members. The worm screw is placed in the body and the pin attachment members are coupled to the worm screw, and constrained from rotation relative to the worm screw, wherein the worm screw has opposing threads extending away from a central region. Upon rotation of the worm screw, the pin attachment members travel in opposite directions, either toward each other or away from each other to either decrease or increase the spacing therebetween. A pin may be coupled to each of the pin attachment members.

Abstract: Orthopaedic device (10, 110, 210, 310) for correcting deformities of a long bone (11), comprising a bar (12), extended along an axis (Y-Y) and intended to be placed alongside the bone (11), at least a first clamp (14, 214, 314) for a first group of osseous screws (16) and a second clamp (18, 19, 118) for a second group of osseous screws (20, 22), removably mounted on said bar (12), wherein the first of said clamps (14, 214, 314) is placed onboard a support base (21, 221, 321) in turn mounted on said bar (12), and angularly movable in relation to the support base around a given rotation axis (X-X, X?-X?, Z-Z) by means of a rotary coupling, characterised in that said rotary coupling comprises a male element (35; 235, 236, 237, 238, 239; 333, 334) associated with the first clamp (14, 214, 314) and having a surface at least partially cylindrical, and a corresponding female element (36; 130; 250, 254, 255; 336, 337) associated with the support base (21, 221, 321) and having a surface at least partially cylindrical

Abstract: An articulation element consisting of a plurality of adjustable jaw pairs for the purposes of fixating the relative position of coupled bars and/or bone pins of an external bone fixator. Each of the adjustable jaws consists of a pair of hemispherical jaw elements contained within a spherical housing. A passage is eccentrically arranged through the jaw elements to accept the pin or bar. The jaw elements have interposed between them a spring element that serves to bias the jaw elements in the closed position. Pins serve to provisionally lock the jaw elements in the closed position. Spring loaded buttons act to release the pins thereby allowing the jaw elements to open accepting the pin or bar. The jaws are attached in a back to back fashion through the use of a threaded collar which acts as a turnbuckle pulling the jaws together when tightened.

Abstract: By providing components securable to anchor pins or screws of different diameters as well as providing clamps which hold associated pins in any position during adjustments, an external fixation or adjustable frame structure is provided which is capable of being quickly and easily assembled in any desired configuration. In the present invention, the frame structure is retained in any assembled configuration in order to allow final adjustments to be made, prior to the final securement of the frame assembly in the precisely desired configuration by closure of each clamp member. In this way, an entire frame assembly is capable of being constructed, adjusted, and readjusted in order to assure each component is oriented in the precisely desired position prior to final closure of the clamping members.

Abstract: The invention relates to a stabilizing device adapted to be applied to a stereotactic frame (2, 3), which is provided with fixation pins (4) to allow fixation of the stereotactic frame to a bone (5) of a human or animal body part to be examined or treated, wherein the stabilizing device is adapted to stabilize a fixation pin in relation to the frame. The stabilizing device comprises a stabilizing member (9) which in a first position is provided with a through opening (13), adapted to be applied over the fixation pin in an area between the frame and the body part, and a tensioning member (10) positioned in a second position on a distance from the through opening and being capable of drawing the stabilizing member towards the frame.

Abstract: A device (1) according to the invention for externally fixing broken bones (62, 62?) of a patient, particularly the extremities, comprises a support (11) composed of a plurality of joint elements (2, 2) that are stringed together, wherein said support can be disposed outside the body of the patient. The proximal ends (41) of at least two percutaneously disposed pins (4) are anchored in the bone tissue (61) of the patient, and the distal ends (42) are fixed to the support (11). The joint elements (2) are stringed on a central tensile force element (3), and in each case two adjoining joint socket (22). The individual ball joints, and thus the support (11), can be fixed in a reversible frictionally engaged manner by applying a tensile force of the central tensile force element (3). The joint elements (2, 2?) in turn are designed such that a pin (4) can be fastened to the support (11) in a clamping and/or frictionally engaged manner by applying the tensile force of the central tensile force element (3).

Abstract: Steerable catheter that has fluid transfer capability is provided. The catheter includes an elongate flexible shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, an operative element carried at the distal end of the shaft, and a medium conveying conduit carried within the elongate shaft, the conduit having a distal end that is affixed relative to the distal end of the elongate shaft, and a proximal end that is configured to move relative to the proximal end of the shaft. In this manner, the proximal end of the medium conveying conduit is allowed to slide relative to the proximal end of the shaft as the distal end of the shaft changes shape, thereby preventing kinking of the conduit.

Abstract: An articulation element consisting of a plurality of adjustable jaw pairs for the purposes of fixating the relative position of coupled bars and/or bone pins of an external bone fixator. Each of the adjustable jaws consists of a pair of hemispherical jaw elements contained within a spherical housing. A passage is eccentrically arranged through the jaw elements to accept the pin or bar. The jaw elements have interposed between them a spring element that serves to bias the jaw elements in the closed position. Pins serve to provisionally lock the jaw elements in the closed position. Spring loaded buttons act to release the pins thereby allowing the jaw elements to open accepting the pin or bar. The jaws are attached in a back to back fashion through the use of a threaded collar which acts as a turnbuckle pulling the jaws together when tightened.

Abstract: Clamping devices and methods for external fixation systems include a post component having a yaw axis and a clamping system secured to the post component and rotatable about the yaw axis. The clamping system includes a outer jaw and a inner jaw having an inner surface facing the outer jaw. The outer and inner jaws together form an opening for receiving a fixation element of the external fixation system. The inner jaw and outer jaw have a roll axis alignable with a longitudinal axis of the fixation element. The clamping system and post component arc rotatable about the roll axis. The inner jaw also includes a cylindrical outer-facing surface. The devices also include a base component having a cylindrical concave surface having a pitch axis. The concave surface of the base component interfaces with the cylindrical outer facing component on the inner jaw. The outer and inner jaws being rotatable relative to the base and the post component about the pitch axis.

Abstract: By providing components securable to anchor pins or screws of different diameters as well as providing clamps which hold associated pins in any position during adjustments, an external fixation or adjustable frame structure is provided which is capable of being quickly and easily assembled in any desired configuration. In the present invention, the frame structure is retained in any assembled configuration in order to allow final adjustments to be made, prior to the final securement of the frame assembly in the precisely desired configuration by closure of each clamp member. In this way, an entire frame assembly is capable of being constructed, adjusted, and readjusted in order to assure each component is oriented in the precisely desired position prior to final closure of the clamping members.

Abstract: An external fixation assembly includes a plurality of hollow pins that are inserted into a patient's bone. Each pin has an interior bore and a plurality of apertures extending through the pin wall from the bore. The pin may be coupled to a source of vacuum pressure operable to create reduced pressure in the tissue surrounding the pin. A cover is placed around the pin and sealed to provide a fluid-tight enclosure that maintains reduced pressure around the pin. A method for applying external fixation using the fixator pins described above includes the steps of inserting each pin through a skin opening, positioning the pin apertures near selected tissue, covering the skin opening with a sealed enclosure, connecting the pins to a source of vacuum pressure, and activating the source of vacuum pressure to create reduced pressure in the patient's tissue at or near the bone.

Abstract: An external fixation system having a fixation component (20) comprising: a) a first capture member (24) adapted to capture a second element (26) of an orthopedic fixation system; and (b) a second capture member (22) adapted to capture a second element (28) of an orthopedic fixation system and coupled to the first capture member such that the coupling (86,94,110) allows the first capture member and the second capture member to rotate about three axes relative to each other element and move along that axis; wherein the coupling is adapted to secure the first and the second capture members from rotation with an activation (100); and wherein the second capture member is adapted to capture the second element by snapping onto the second element from substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis of the second element

Abstract: An orthopedic apparatus is provided for bridging a first bone unit to a second bone unit. The apparatus is demonstrated on a finger joint, wherein one of the bones and/or ligaments and/or tendons of the joint is/are injured. A method for implanting and using the apparatus also is presented. The apparatus includes a reformably deformable span portion which is generally circular and preferably rhombic. By deforming or reforming the span portion, it can be repositioned laterally, and/or it can be rotated to allow range of rotary motion so as to promote healing.

Abstract: A simplified external bone fixator assembly is provided which allows the surgeon to snap a bone fixation rod into the assembly at any location along the length of the rod. The invention does not require “threading” of the assembly onto the rod starting at the end and sliding it down the length of the rod to the desired location. In particular, a bone pin locking assembly is provided for use with standard bone fixation rods and bone pins. The assembly includes a bone pin vise, a single-piece fixation rod attachment member and a coupling to allow relative adjustment of pin vise and rod attachment member. The single-piece rod attachment member has two opposing jaws that loosely capture the bone fixation rod when the surgeon presses the rod into the attachment member. The assembly may be rigidly fixed to the rod using a bolt which tightens the attachment member onto the rod.

Abstract: A medical apparatus comprising first and second arms coupled to a fracture table. A first attachment mechanism is carried by the first arm for securing the first arm to a first portion of a bone of a mammalian body and a second attachment mechanism is carried by the second arm for securing the second arm to a second portion of the bone. The first and second arms permit respective adjustment of the first and second portions of the bone so as to desirably align the first and second portions of the bone relative to each other.

Abstract: An external fixation device for holding bone fragments in place includes a housing having a number of rotationally adjustable pin holders, each of which is held by a clamping member that simultaneously clamps the pin holder within an internal mounting surface of the housing and a bone pin within the pin holder. A first embodiment includes a number of pin mounting structures, each of which can include a single pin holder. A second embodiment includes one or two pin mounting structures, each of which holds a row of pin holders that is clamped in place by a single clamping member. Other embodiments are formed by fastening together a group of elements to form different housing configurations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for fixation to a head of a patient during neurological diagnosis, therapy or surgery, in particular during MRI diagnosis. The device comprises at least one fixation pin for fixation to the head, a sleeve member (5) having an internal threaded through bore to at least partly receive and hold said fixation pin, and a pin support member for supporting said fixation pin and sleeve member. The sleeve member is exchangeable and provided in at least two different lengths in order to allow adaptation of the sleeve member to the size of the head to improve the fixation of the head and avoid the fixation pin to protrude beyond the outer boundary of the pin support member. The invention also relates to a method for fixation of a head.

Abstract: An accessory device for an external orthopedic fixator where the fixator has an external frame made up of frame components which surround the lower leg and ankle of a patient with one or more transfixation wires fixed thereto. The accessory device includes a foot plate which connects to one of the fixator frame components for supporting the sole of a patient's foot. The accessory device also includes a companion shroud which is wrapped about the fixator with the fixator being received within the interior of the shroud. The shroud has a width and height which are sufficient to conceal the fixator within the shroud interior. The shroud has fabric hook and loop fastener regions which allow it to be easily installed and removed from about the fixator.

Abstract: External fixation devices and methods of use are provided. A device for external fixation of a joint includes a first pin block for connection to a first skeletal element and a second pin block for connection to a second skeletal element. The device includes a connection assembly that is releasably attached to at least one of the pin blocks. The device is locked in an original position when the connection assembly is attached to both of the pin blocks, and is unlocked when the connection assembly is detached from at least one of the pin blocks.

Abstract: A three-pin skull clamp, including a U-shaped frame defined by an interconnectable base piece with a slot that receives the ratchet arm of a ratchet piece, also includes a plate movably connected to the base piece, thereby to permit inspection and cleaning of the slot which receives the ratchet arm. To increase the adjustability of the ratchet piece relative to the base piece, the base piece includes at least two pawls with offset engagement teeth, preferably with the offset equal to half the pitch of ratchet teeth located along the ratchet arm. This feature facilitates positioning of the skull clamp relative to a patient, and is particularly beneficial for radiolucent skull clamps.

Abstract: An articulation element consisting of a plurality of adjustable jaw pairs for the purposes of fixating the relative position of coupled bars and/or bone pins of an external bone fixator. Each of the adjustable jaws consists of a pair of hemispherical jaw elements contained within a spherical housing. A passage is eccentrically arranged through the jaw elements to accept the pin or bar. The jaw elements have interposed between them a spring element that serves to bias the jaw elements in the closed position. Pins serve to provisionally lock the jaw elements in the closed position. Spring loaded buttons act to release the pins thereby allowing the jaw elements to open accepting the pin or bar. The jaws are attached in a back to back fashion through the use of a threaded collar which acts as a turnbuckle pulling the jaws together when tightened.