Abstract: The invention relates to a distraction apparatus for holding a fracture during the healing process. The apparatus includes screws or pins for insertion into a bone at points proximal and distal relative to a fracture site, and a pair of springs which can be connected externally between the screws or pins at spaced positions thereon. The springs act as an extension spring and a compression spring respectively between the screws or pins. The invention is characterized in that the springs are connected at the spaced positions at such distances relative to the bone that the springs will exert moments of force in order to obtain a desired torque load at the fracture site.

Abstract: A device for external correction and setting of the bone parts at the site of a fracture, comprising a rigid rod, adjustable in length, with two holders which carry a plurality of transcutaneous pins. Each of the holders is rotatable in two planes that are disposed at right angles relative to each other. On each holder an arc-shaped guide is provided in a plane parallel to the axis of the rod. Each guide has a radius which approximately corresponds to the presumed distance between the center of the bone and the arc-shaped guide. The arc-shaped guides are provided with worm wheel teeth, and a worm is mounted in each of the holder parts for engagement with the teeth. Each of the holders is a two-part assembly, having a first part fastened to the rod above the arc-shaped guide and a second part carrying the pins and rotatably connected to the first part about an axis of rotation disposed at a right angle in relation to the axis of the curved guide.