Abstract: In application to an external fixator wherein at least one end of a fixator body is equipped with a first ball-joint component that is releasably connected or connectible to a second ball-joint component forming part of a bone-screw clamp, the invention provides a major capacity for enlarging the achievable range of possible angles as between the longitudinal axis of the bone-screw clamp and the longitudinal axis of the fixator body. Three different embodiments are disclosed. In a first disclosed embodiment, the expanded range is achieved by structural modification of the bone-screw clamp per se. In the other two embodiments, the expanded range is achieved by interposition of a connector unit having one of its respective ends a ball-joint connection component that is uniquely compatible with the ball-joint component of the fixator body and at the other of its ends a ball-joint connection component that is uniquely compatible with the ball-joint component of the bone-screw clamp.

Abstract: A clamping coupling for fixing of bone screws or pins, and connecting these bone screws or pins to an external fixator, includes an additional transverse clamping coupling to achieve better external-fixator anchorage when fractures extend up into the joint (condyle) of the femur. A selectively adjustable asymmetric arrangement permits fixed settings parallel to the longitudinal axis of the femur, while a lateral offset takes into account the natural lateral offset of the centerline of the condyle of the femur with respect to the longitudinal axis of the femur.

Abstract: Apparatus for the external setting or securing of the parts of a fractured bone, comprising an elongate central body member comprised of two parts mutually displaceable parallel to the longitudinal axis of said member, whereby each part of the central body member supports a clamping device for the pins to be inserted into a part of the bone. The two mutually displaceable parts are engaged by a pressing and tensioning device causing the mutual longitudinal displacement of the part. When the pins are inserted in the bone parts to be pressed together, the pressing and tensioning device is actuated until the two bone sections abut against each other at the required pressure. Then the securing devices fix the two parts of the central body member into their position. Subsequently, the pressing and tensioning device is removed from the central body member since it is no longer required.