Abstract: A compressor-distractor device may be used during a surgical procedure, such as a surgical procedure to correct a bunion deformity. In some examples, the compressor-distractor includes first and second engagement arms having first and second pin-receiving holes, respectively. The first and second pin-receiving holes may be angled relative to each other. The compressor-distractor may also include an actuator operatively coupled to the first and second engagement arms. In some example uses, a clinician may pin a first surgical device to a patient's bones use a pair of parallel pins. After removing the surgical device over the parallel pins, the clinician may thread the parallel pins through the angled first and second pin-receiving holes of the compressor-distractor, causing the bones to move relative to each other. Thereafter, the clinician may actuate the actuator on the compressor-distractor to move the bones towards and/or away from each other.

Abstract: Methods and devices for implementation of a health care prescription. Some devices may dynamically monitor information from a patient device. Some embodiments may dynamically provide instructions to patient devices to treat and for treating patients through the use of medical devices based on the information from a patient device. Some embodiments treat musculoskeletal conditions by providing for alignment of bones by use of bone alignment devices in accordance with instructions provided through a prescription. Other embodiments may facilitate or provide revised prescriptions in response to treatment conditions. Embodiments may also provide effective ways of communicating prescription and compliance information between patients and health care providers.

Abstract: A sensor device (16a-16d) is provided for monitoring a clamping force (F) exerted by a clamping element (11a-11d) of a clamping device (12a-12d) on a component (14), with at least one strain gauge (30a-30d), which can be arranged on a surface (90, 91) of the clamping element (11a-11d) of the clamping device (12a-12d) and is deformable under the clamping force (F), a transmission module unit (36) based on electromagnetic transmission technology connected to the at least one strain gauge (30a-30d) for detecting a voltage (U5) that is indicative of a deformation (f) of the at least one strain gauge (30a-30d), and an antenna element (38) connected to the transmission module unit (36) for transmitting a signal that is indicative of the detected voltage (U5), and for receiving electromagnetic energy for electrical supply of the transmission module unit (36) and at least one strain gauge (30a-30d).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an external fixation system including at least one pair of connected clamp units forming at least one clamp. Each of the clamp units includes: a first component comprising a molded metal, the first component having a first exterior surface having a plurality of voids formed therein to define a plurality of interconnected ribs and a first periphery having at least one first pin groove formed therein; and a second component mated to the first component and including a second periphery having at least one second pin groove formed therein, the at least one first pin groove and at least one second pin groove together forming a fixation pin holder. A fixation pin is held in at least one of the fixation pin holders.

Abstract: This disclosure provides an apparatus, system and method for pregnant guide pin drill passer. The pregnant guide pin drill passer includes a drill shank removably to transfer a rotational force of a drill; a drill neck to translate the rotational force from the drill shank to the drill bit; the drill bit to use the rotational force to create a bone tunnel in a bone; a hole finisher to embed bone dust into a surface of the bone tunnel; an eyelet to receive a first end of a suture after the drill shank is removed from the drill, pull the first end of the suture through the bone tunnel when the drill shank is pulled through the bone tunnel, and remove the suture from the eyelet.

Abstract: Various implementations include an external fixation device for posterior pelvic compression that allows a pin engaged into one iliac bone to be pivoted relative to the pin engaged into the other iliac bone, allowing compression of the iliac bones toward each other and the interposed sacrum and for the relative positions of the pins to be held fixed relative to each other after the compression is set. The pin to be pivoted is engaged into the iliac bone closest to the source of the injury. And, the pins and bars of the fixation device are anteriorly coupled together, which gives the patient greater transportability, as well as maintenance of reduction that will assist in the definitive surgical intervention.

Abstract: A system and method for internal pelvic fixation. Guide wires can be inserted through guides and opposing sides of a pelvic bone, and can indicate a depth for driving bone screws into the pelvic bone. Offset rod tools positioned about each guide can assist in determining an offset distance between an implant rod and the pelvic bone. A template rod may be coupled to the offset rod tools and used to select a length for the implant rod. Clamps can be coupled to the bone screws, the clamps having multiple axes of rotation, the angular positions of the clamps being secured by the tightening of a single nut of each clamp. Joysticks used to tighten the nuts can be coupled to a reduction holder mechanism that can decrease at least an axial distance between the clamps, and thus pelvic bones, before locking of the clamps via tightening of the nuts.

Abstract: A locking device (5) of a bone screw (3) for an external fixator (1) for bone fractures is described herein, wherein the external fixator (1) comprises at least one support pin (202). The locking device (5) comprises a locking element (501) of the bone screw (3); a locking pin (502), which is configured to support the locking element (501), the locking element (501) being configured to rotate around the blocking pin in a bone screw positioning step; a coupling element (503), which is provided with a respective coupling seat (503b) configured to receive the support pin (202) by snap-fit coupling and to allow, during the bone screw (3) positioning step, a rotation of the locking device (5) around the support pin (202) and a sliding of the locking device (5) along the support pin.

Abstract: A device for use with orthopedic surgical fixation devices, and more particularly, to an alignment gauge for use with an external fixation system comprising one or more support members (rings, plates, etc.) connected to one or more bone members wherein a plurality of struts of adjustable length support and/or connect the one or more support members. The alignment gauge indicating to a user, such as a surgeon, the degree of translational offset between one bone member and a center point of at least one of the support members in at least one of an anterior-posterior or medial-lateral plane.

Abstract: A fixation system for immobilizing a skeletal structure is provided. It includes an internal fixation system having a rod-plate subsystem, a shaft subsystem, and a midfoot plate subsystem. It further includes an external fixation system adapted to connect to the internal fixation system and having a sole that provides a weight-bearing platform underneath a patient's foot to enable a patient to walk with the fixation system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a guide module having oblique installation pins, the guide module including: a first installation pin unit penetratively inserted into one side of an aligned bone; a second installation pin unit penetratively inserted into the other side of the aligned bone; a reposition guide unit simultaneously penetrated by the first installation pin unit and the second installation pin unit and being simultaneously in contact with one side of the aligned bone and the other side of the aligned bone; and a compression guide unit disposed adjacent to the reposition guide unit and simultaneously penetrated by the first installation pin unit and the second installation pin unit, in which imaginary central axes of holes of the reposition guide unit penetrated by the first installation pin unit and the second installation pin unit are spaced apart, at a predetermined interval in a vertical direction, from imaginary central axes of holes of the compression guide unit.

Abstract: A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones. In one embodiment, there is provided a system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint, the members collectively defining a path of motion and having a cartilage having an energy absorption component configured therebetween.

Abstract: Instruments, devices, systems and methods for maintaining, correcting and/or fusing joint deformities are disclosed. The system includes a first translation mechanism, a second translation mechanism coupled to the first translation mechanism, and a third translation mechanism coupled to the second translation mechanism, and a tower coupled to the third translation mechanism. Methods of assembling and using the alignment guides for maintaining, correcting and/or fusing joint deformities are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for forming a preform for a thermoplastic retention device is provided. The method includes providing a thermoplastic base material and blending the base material with one or more chemical agents to form a polymer blend. The chemical agents are configured to modify a polymer chain of the base material when the polymer blend is exposed to radiation. The method further includes forming the polymer blend into a filament sized for a three-dimensional printing platform and printing a preform shape from the filament using the three-dimensional printing platform. After the printed preform is hardened, the method includes exposing the printed preform shape to radiation sufficient to cause a reaction between the one or more chemical agents and the base material.

Abstract: An external bone fixation system may include a first semi-circular external fixation member, a second semi-circular external fixation member, four ball collet assemblies attached to the second external fixation member, and four shafts. Each shaft may include a first end attached to the first external fixation member and a second end with a stop member, and each of the four shafts extends slidably through an opening in a ball of one of the four ball collet assemblies. The stop member of each second end prevents each second end from passing through the opening in its respective ball. Each shaft also includes a hinge located closer to the first end than to the second end.

Abstract: The present technology relates generally to ring fixators and associated systems and methods. In some embodiments, for example, a ring fixator assembly comprises a ring configured to surround a fractured bone, a retention device disposed at a first position on the ring, and a tensioner clamp disposed at a second position on the ring. A wire extends between the retention device and the tensioner clamp. The tensioner clamp includes a first screw configured to secure the wire in position with respect to the tensioner clamp and a second screw configured to apply additional tension to the wire.

Abstract: The present invention provides a technique for percutaneous intramedullary fixation. A protective outer sheath is provided for internal fixation of the proximal tibia. Additionally, a unique intramedullary plate is provided that is adapted for percutaneous insertion into the intramedullary canal of a long bone. A plate holder is also provided that may be utilized through the outer sheath to drive and position a fixation plate within the intramedullary canal.

Abstract: A monoplanar device for stabilizing and distracting an anatomical joint is disclosed including first and second shafts having engagement features that form a hinge joint with a single axis of rotation, the shafts being constrained by the hinge joint to move relative to one another only around the single axis of the hinge joint. The shafts and the hinge joint are disposed in a single plane with the single axis being about orthogonal thereto. A first clamp having a recess and a pin hole is slidingly disposed on the first shaft, and a second clamp having a pin hole is slidingly disposed on the second shaft. The pin holes are arranged to receive bone pins for insertion into bones adjacent to the anatomical joint. A distraction screw disposed between a threaded partial bore of the first shaft and the recess rotates to advance the first clamp along the first shaft.

Abstract: A virtual reality system for simulating medical processes is described, which may include a variety of features and functions, and may implement a variety of processes. In a typical illustrative situation, the virtual reality system supports a system in which a virtual medical procedure may be performed on a virtual patient (or a part thereof), the virtual patient having medical conditions that simulate those of an actual real-world patient. The virtual reality system enables a user, such as a physician, to develop a strategy for treating the actual patient by performing one or more procedures on a simulated virtual patient.

Abstract: An acetabular liner having a closed first end, an open second end, and a liner wall having a distal peripheral edge. The acetabular liner wall can include an interior surface, an exterior surface configured to be received within an acetabular shell, a first cutout through the liner wall, a second cutout parallel to the first cutout and through the liner wall, and a third cutout in the interior surface partially through the liner wall, the third cutout extending between the first and second cutouts, and at least one movable tab extending from the peripheral edge inwardly towards an axial center of the liner and having sidewalls defined by one of the sets of cutouts, the tab comprising at least one projection on an exterior surface of the tab configured to removably secure to a portion of an acetabular shell.

Abstract: An external fixator system includes a proximal frame configured to restrict motion in a lower extremity of a subject, and a frame connector assembly. The proximal frame includes a first, second, and third component. The first component can support a first clamp to secure a first pin inserted within a bone extending between a foot and a knee of the lower extremity. The third component extends from a second end of the second component. The first, second and third components have longitudinal axes that are substantially coplanar. The third component includes an extension to extend over a dorsal portion of the foot of the subject and to support a second clamp to secure a second pin inserted within a bone of the foot. The frame connector assembly extends from the second component to support a third clamp to secure a third pin inserted within a third bone of the foot.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for manipulating the orientation of a plurality of bone fragments with respect to one another. A bone transport frame including first and second rings, a plurality of elongate struts, and a plurality of ring transport assemblies for orienting a first bone segment with respect to a second bone segment is disclosed. A third ring may be included in the bone transport frame for orienting a third bone segment with respect to the first and second bone segments. Manipulation of an adjustable member of the bone transport frame can transport a ring in either a proximal or distal direction with respect to other rings of the frame. Manipulation of another adjustable member of the bone transport frame can translate a central axis of one of the rings either toward or away from the central axes of the plurality of elongate struts.

Abstract: A fracture reduction system includes a reduction device for reducing a fracture bone to be reduced; and a display device for displaying a posture of the fracture bone to be reduced based on a bone model. The display device can cooperate with the reduction device so that the bone model moves synchronously with the fracture bone to be reduced. The posture of the fracture bone to be reduced is displayed based on the bone model, so that the medical staff can know the current posture of the fracture bone to be reduced according to the posture of the bone model and design corresponding reduction actions specifically according to the reduction conditions, so as to reduce the difficulty and increase the precision of fracture reduction.

Abstract: A medical apparatus including a bar with a first attachment loop, a second attachment and a plurality of hooks, wherein the medical apparatus is an arch bar.

Abstract: A dynamic foot plate assembly structured for therapeutic use adjacent the ankle area of the body comprising a base element, at least one side element extending along the ankle area, and at least one joint movably and adjustably connecting the base element to the side element for variable displacement of the base element and side element into different operative orientations. The dynamic foot plate assembly may also comprise a plurality of strut members disposed in an interconnecting relationship between either a support member and a side element, or the support member and the base element. The strut members, if present, facilitate the variable relative displacement of the base element, side element and support member into different operative orientations.

Abstract: A device, kit, and method for the treatment of anatomical joint dysfunctions, and more particularly, to a spring hinge comprising: a primary coil spring having a helical structure with a central cavity, wherein the primary coil spring forms a plurality of spirals layered against one another when the primary coil spring is in an unexpanded state; wherein the primary coil spring comprises surfaces that are configured to nest against each other to resist translational or shearing movement between adjoining spiral layers.

Abstract: A comfortable low-leak mask assembly for use with Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV) is provided to improve patient compliance and/or treatment. The mask system may include headgear having straps that are substantially inextensible and/or micro-adjustable; and/or a mask and/or cushion that includes various structures to allow enhanced/tailored sealing and/or fit at selected locations on the patient's face.

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 at least one clamping assembly having a pair of jaws with at least two different size grooves to accommodate a bone fixation element such as a pin or rod. An alternate clamping assembly has at least three grooves wherein at least two of the grooves have a different size adapted to accommodate a correspondingly sized bone fixation element such as a bone pin. The longitudinal axes of the grooves define a polygon. The jaw pairs can be rotated about a central longitudinal axis to present different size reception cavities towards the pins or rocks depending on their diameter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to reduction and fixation of bone fractures distal radius and wrist. The invention enables to mobilise the distal fragment in 3 planes and also to correct rotational deformity. The object of the present invention is to realize an external fixator which enables to reduce a fracture and at the desired position and fix the fracture. In case of unsuccessful reduction attempt for the second trial there is no need to dismount the fixator. Another object of the present invention is to realize an external fixator which enables to reduce a fracture in 3 dimensions and to correct the rotational deformity in a preferred degree. Another object of the present invention is to realize an external fixator which can practically be mounted to malunion zone and can be used for reducing in corrective osteotomy operations.

Abstract: Rod link reducer assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. The rod link reducer assembly provides a manipulator rod having a first end, a second end, and an elongate body extending along a body axis between the first end and the second end. A post extends outwardly from the rod. A rod manipulating joint comprise an elongate joint rod extending along a joint rod axis, a first coupling clamp disposed along the joint rod, the first coupling clamp releasably connectable to the post, and a second coupling clamp disposed along the joint rod adjacent to and rotatable about the joint rod relative to the first coupling clamp. The second coupling clamp is releasably connectable to a shaft. A biasing member is adapted to bias the second clamp against the first clamp.

Abstract: External fixator assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. An external fixator system may include a plurality of fixator assemblies configured to connect a plurality of pins, for example, positioned on opposite sides of a fractured bone, with one more rods. The fixator assemblies may include a plurality of clamp assemblies which are configured to rotate relative to one another when the fixator assembly is in an unlocked position.

Abstract: An articulated fixation device is provided having a high degree of adjustability for securing a plate member thereof to a skull and at least one spinal rod thereof to a vertebral bone. In one form, an adjustable bridge member is provided that is adjustably connected to both the plate member and the spinal rod. The adjustable connections can include an upper and rearward pivot connection between the plate member and the bridge member and a lower and forward pivot connection between the spinal rod and the bridge member.

Abstract: An external fixation assembly for bone fusion or separation is disclosed. The assembly includes a fracture fusion tube, with a bracket slidably engaged thereon. The assembly further includes a collet clamp connected to the bracket, with a ball collet rotatably seated within the clamp, the ball collet having an aperture for receiving a bone bin therethrough and perforations for a compression engagement with a bone pin. The assembly uses a single screw for threadably engaging the ball collet, the clamp and the bracket such that the position of the bone pin, ball collet and bracket are all fixed.

Abstract: A prosthetic sternum device with a manubrium includes a plate and a device for attachment to ribs. Each of the devices for attachment to ribs includes an end for rigid connection to the plate and an end provided with a device for engaging with a rib. The plate further includes, in the upper region of same, two elements. Each element rigidly connects a pin and includes a polyaxial joint shaped to allow the multidirectional mobility of the pin.

Abstract: In embodiments of the invention, there is provided an external fixation system comprising a first plate and a second plate and connectors therebetween. Some or all of the connectors may be adjustable in length or angular position or both. Angular adjustment may comprise a fixed amount of friction and an adjustable amount of friction, and the permitted angular deflection can vary around the perimeter of the angular joint. An adjustable-length connector may comprise a tiltable nut that can either engage or not engage a threaded rod to provide both coarse adjustment and fine adjustment. Tactile or audible feedback may be provided. Other accessories may include: provisional alignment clamps to position parts of the patient's body; a K-wire alignment guide; a K-wire support post; a universal fixation bolt; a plurality of half-pins that can be used with a common support post or block; and a resilient retention device.

Abstract: A dynamization device may comprise a sleeve, a shaft, a dial, a contact feature, and a biasing member. The shaft may comprise an interior section partially within an inner recess of the sleeve; a flat surface on the interior section of the shaft; and a plurality of external threads on the interior section of the shaft. The dial may comprise a body disposed partially within the inner recess; an annular lip; and internal threads secured to external threads of the shaft. The contact feature has an annular geometry disposed within the inner recess of the sleeve. The biasing member may be disposed around the interior section of the shaft, and disposed between the contact feature and a shoulder within the inner recess of the sleeve. Rotation of the annular lip may provide for compressive movement of the biasing member relative to the sleeve and shaft.

Abstract: A method of generating a correction plan for correcting a deformed bone includes inputting to a computer system a first image of the deformed bone in a first plane and inputting to the computer system a second image of the deformed bone in a second plane. Image processing techniques are employed to identify a plurality of anatomical landmarks of the deformed bone in the first image. The first image of the deformed bone is displayed on a display device. A graphical of the deformed bone is autonomously generated and graphically overlaid on the first image of the deformed bone on the display device, the graphical template including a plurality of lines, each line connected at each end to a landmark point corresponding to one of the anatomical landmarks. A model of the deformed bone may be autonomously generated based on the graphical template.

Abstract: A system and method for internal pelvic fixation. Guide wires can be inserted through guides and opposing sides of a pelvic bone, and can indicate a depth for driving bone screws into the pelvic bone. Offset rod tools positioned about each guide can assist in determining an offset distance between an implant rod and the pelvic bone. A template rod may be coupled to the offset rod tools and used to select a length for the implant rod. Clamps can be coupled to the bone screws, the clamps having multiple axes of rotation, the angular positions of the clamps being secured by the tightening of a single nut of each clamp. Joysticks used to tighten the nuts can be coupled to a reduction holder mechanism that can decrease at least an axial distance between the clamps, and thus pelvic bones, before locking of the clamps via tightening of the nuts.

Abstract: Apparatus and devices for adding an additional spinal construct in a patient are disclosed. In one arrangement the additional spinal construct extends an existing spinal construct ipsilaterally with an inline rod connector in a minimally invasive or preferably, percutaneous procedure. In another arrangement, the ipsilateral extension of an existing spinal construct uses an offset rod connector for receiving an additional spinal rod that may be placed interiorly or exteriorly of the existing spinal construct.

Abstract: External fixator assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. An external fixator system may include a plurality of fixator assemblies configured to connect a plurality of pins, for example, positioned on opposite sides of a fractured bone, with one more rods. The fixator assemblies may include a plurality of clamp assemblies positioned along a shaft and which are configured to rotate relative to one another when the fixator assembly is in an unlocked position.

Abstract: Instrumentation and methods are provided for upper jaw correction surgery. The application discloses an orthopedic system and method that can be used to perform both a first distraction (for example a maxillary distraction) and a second distraction (for example a maxillary expansion) within the same surgical procedure. The instrumentation for separating first and second bone segments can include a first footplate; a second footplate; an actuator arranged to vary a distance between the first and second footplates; and a hinge that rotatably attaches the first and second footplates such that the first and second footplates can be angularly adjusted relative to each other about a pivot axis. Additionally, instrumentation and methods are provided for a hinged fixation device capable of securing and adjusting both the linear separation and angular orientation of bone structures.

Abstract: An external distraction apparatus for performing a craniofacial distraction is disclosed. The external distraction apparatus may comprise a stationary member. The stationary member may be configured to be affixed to a head of a patient. The external distraction apparatus may also comprise laterally disposed distractors. The laterally disposed distractors may extend inferiorly from the stationary member and be moveable relative to the stationary member. The external distraction apparatus may comprise a motor and controller. The motor may be powered with the controller to perform a craniofacial distraction in an automated fashion.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for manipulating the orientation of a plurality of bone fragments with respect to one another. A bone transport frame including first and second rings, a plurality of elongate struts, and a plurality of ring transport assemblies for orienting a first bone segment with respect to a second bone segment is disclosed. A third ring may be included in the bone transport frame for orienting a third bone segment with respect to the first and second bone segments. Manipulation of an adjustable member of the bone transport frame can transport a ring in either a proximal or distal direction with respect to other rings of the frame. Manipulation of another adjustable member of the bone transport frame can translate a central axis of one of the rings either toward or away from the central axes of the plurality of elongate struts.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are external fixation frames for correcting bone deformities. The external fixation frames include a top fixation ring and a bottom fixation ring coupled to one another by at least two struts. A half ring is coupled to bottom fixation ring. The bottom fixation ring is u-shaped. One or more rocker members may be coupled to the bottom fixation ring. The half ring may be hingedly coupled to the bottom fixation ring such that it can rotate with respect to the bottom fixation ring from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: A spinal implant includes a link having a first surface and a second surface connectable with a spinal construct. The spinal construct is attachable with one or more vertebral levels. A plurality of electrodes includes at least one electrode disposed with the first surface and at least one electrode disposed with the second surface such that the electrodes conduct an electric current to stimulate tissue growth adjacent the spinal construct. Systems, surgical instruments and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A tool for implementing a correction plan in an external fixation frame having a plurality of adjustment elements or screws, for example, generally includes a driver, a motor, a controller, and a processor. The driver is adapted to engage and rotate each of the screws. The motor is coupled the driver and adapted to rotate the driver. The controller is connected to the motor and configured to control operation of the motor. The a processor adapted configured to: receive correction plan data; receive identification data including information for identifying at least one of the plurality of screws; determine movement of at least one of the plurality of the screws based on the correction plan data and the identification data; and send signals indicative of the determined movement to the controller in order to rotate at least one of the plurality of screws according to a predetermined correction plan.

Abstract: An external fixation system for the correction of long bone deformities includes an elongate beam element having an engagement feature along a longitudinal edge of the elongate beam element, a connector element secured to the elongate beam and structurally configured to support a first bone anchor extending from the external fixation system, and a movable carriage engaged with the engagement feature along the longitudinal edge of the elongate beam element and selectively movable along the engagement feature of the elongate beam element. The movable carriage is selectively lockable into a position along the elongate beam element. The movable carriage is structurally configured to support a second bone anchor extending from the external fixation system.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are external fixation frames for correcting bone deformities. The external fixation frames include a top fixation ring and a bottom fixation ring coupled to one another by at least two struts. A half ring is coupled to bottom fixation ring. The bottom fixation ring is u-shaped. One or more rocker members may be coupled to the bottom fixation ring. The half ring may be hingedly coupled to the bottom fixation ring such that it can rotate with respect to the bottom fixation ring from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: An external bone fixation system may include a first semi-circular external fixation member, a second semi-circular external fixation member, four ball collet assemblies attached to the second external fixation member, and four shafts. Each shaft may include a first end attached to the first external fixation member and a second end with a stop member, and each of the four shafts extends slidably through an opening in a ball of one of the four ball collet assemblies. The stop member of each second end prevents each second end from passing through the opening in its respective ball. Each shaft also includes a hinge located closer to the first end than to the second end.

Abstract: The present invention in general provides methods for reducing RF-induced heating in an external fixation device including at least two bars, at least two clamps and at least two pins; and external fixation devices with significantly lower RF heating at the pins' tips when compared to other external fixation devices.