Abstract: A method of performing angular distraction osteogenesis by drilling bone-pin holes into the first and second sides of a segmented bone, inserting bone-pins into the bone-pin holes, attaching the bone-pins in each side of the segmented bone to a distraction device and adjusting the distraction devise so that the bone portion of the first side of the segmented bone angularly adjusts, rotates or pivots its position relative to the bone portion on the second side of the segmented bone in precise, gradual and predetermined incremental amounts over a period of time so that the bone tissue remains healthy and the blood vessels and nerve endings remain intact during the bending distraction process.

Abstract: The invention serves patients having a fractured bone wherein separate parts of the bone have been immobilized by an external axial fixator, and the invention provides patient-operated mechanical structure to enable him to transiently distract spaced bone-anchored regions of the fixator. In one embodiment, the patient-operated mechanism is in the form of an accessory that is detachably mounted to the fixator; in another embodiment, the patient-operated mechanism is embodied in an external axial fixator, preferably of the so-called dynamic variety.

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 device for locating in a desired position two or more bones or bone pieces that are in an undesired relative position, by bringing such pieces from the undesired position into the desired position, each piece having at least a pair of pins firmly fixed thereto, which pair of pins is, in turn, firmly retained in a retaining jaw member, the device comprising a straightforward and simple structure including two arms to be fixed to the jaw members and connected to arm driving motors for moving the arms along the three Cartesian axes, whereby the bones can be moved and located, or relocated, into the desired position under a controlled and programmed moving pattern, to achieve a non painful, accurate and exact correction of the bones position.

Abstract: A skin pinching device has two jaws (10) that may be moved against each other by threaded spindle (36). Hooks (18) that may be stuck into the skin are arranged on the jaws (10, 12). The hooks (18) are cast into plastic parts (14) mounted on the jaws (10, 12) in an exchangeable manner. The threaded spindle (36) may be motor-driven in a controlled manner depending on the characteristics of the tissues as determined by a sensor.

Abstract: An external fixator comprises transfixing pins having a flange which abuts against the bone surface to distribute stress along the length of the threaded portion extending into the bone. The pins are mounted in elastomeric bushes in an outrigger to allow limited movement at the outrigger. The outrigger comprises two clamps which are connected through an elastomeric bush allowing a small degree of axial bending and rotational movement of the clamps relative to one another. The arrangement reduces loosening of the pins in the bone and allows beneficial relative movement of the fractured bone portions near the fracture site.

Abstract: The invention serves patients having a fractured bone wherein separate parts of the bone have been immobilized by an external axial fixator, and the invention provides patient-operated mechanical structure to enable him to transiently distract spaced bone-anchored regions of the fixator. In one embodiment, the patient-operated mechanism is in the form of an accessory that is detachably mounted to the fixator; in another embodiment, the patient-operated mechanism is embodied in an external axial fixator, preferably of the so-called dynamic variety.

Abstract: A bone setting apparatus is disclosed including an elongate shaft with a distal working arm and an intermediate working arm attached thereto so as to extend generally perpendicular to the shaft. The working arms are of sufficient length and thickness to act as leveraging bars to reduce a compound fracture. Preferably, the working arms have a concave contact surface for engaging the limb on which the apparatus will be used. Disposed at an end of the shaft opposite the distal and intermediate working arms is a torque control mechanism which extends outwardly from the shaft and can be used to accurately control rotation of the shaft as it is pivoted in such a manner that the distal and intermediate arms align fractured portions of a bone.

Abstract: An external fixator or splint with a carrier which carries at least two fastening devices arranged to receive bone screws. The fastening devices are adjustable relative to the carrier and can be locked in various positions by clamping parts. The splint is made up of two ball-and-socket joints which are supported on the carrier so as to be axially adjustable and of two fastening elements that secure the ball-and-sockets joints.

Abstract: A distraction apparatus for an external fixation device used to rigidly immobilize bone fragments during bone lengthening and angular deformity correction includes distractor mechanisms and pivotable spacers for connecting frame members of an external fixator, and wire and half pin fasteners. The interconnected distractor mechanisms, pivotable spacers and frame members form a rigid structure with rigidity which is maintained during adjustment of the distraction. For linear distraction, the distraction mechanism is a single screw assembly with a single-threaded rod and dual plastic nuts, or one of three various types of telescoping screw assemblies having a single-threaded rod, a coaxial sleeve for receiving the rod and one of three types of plastic connector assemblies. For angular distraction, the distraction mechanism includes an angular distractor with a rotatable knob and pivotable spacers which are connected to the frame members.

Abstract: An osteotomy procedure for adjusting the conformation of a long-bone is described. Illustratively, a proximal tibial osteotomy procedure produces two relatively rotatable long-bone segments. A jig including a body and having two pins extending therefrom in the same direction in a plane containing the long axis of the jig preferably is used to adjustably fix the two segments relative to one another with each pin securely fixed within a corresponding one of the segments. Importantly, at least the distal pin is bendable such that a desired rotation with two degrees of freedom is achievable between the two to-be-fixed segments. By bending the distal pin in a region thereof extending between the jig body and the distal segment, any desired relative rotation may be achieved between the segments. Correction of any and all conditions including varus, valgus, internal and external rotation may be accomplished in a single osteotomy procedure.

Abstract: An external fixator for securing a first bone portion in a fixed relationship with respect to a second bone portion. The fixator includes a bone screw clamp for receiving a first bone screw which is connected to the first bone portion and which includes a spherical portion. The fixator further includes a bone screw clamp which is operable to receive a second bone screw which is connected to the second bone portion and which has a spherical portion. The fixator also includes a connection member having a radiographic window to permit radiographic examination of the bone fracture, as well as a cantilever member operable to secure the spherical portions of the first and second bone screw clamps to the connection member.

Abstract: There is described an external fixator for use in the treatment of a fractured bone having a first bone fragment and a second bone fragment which external fixator comprises:a first movable element and;a second movable element,wherein the first movable element is movably mounted in the fixator so as to be capable of angular motion in one plane, and the second movable element is movably mounted in the fixator so as to be capable of angular motion in another plane, with the plane in which the second element moves being substantially orthogonal to the plane in which the first element moves, and the first and second movable elements are coupled together in such a way as to allow simultaneous angular movement of the external fixator in the two substantially orthogonal planes.

Abstract: An external fixator for positioning a first element or the like relative to a second element or the like.

Abstract: The transport carrier of this invention is configured for use with an external fixator having a hexagonal rod. The carrier includes a threaded sleeve which accommodates the hexagonal rod of the fixator. A compressible ball collet and retaining nut are carried by the sleeve and serve to lock the sleeve into position on the rod in a known manner. A clamp is carried by the sleeve and rotationally fixed relative to the rod by a key and key way, yet may shift along the sleeve. The clamp is configured to connect to one or more bone pins using a ball collet and retaining nut to fix the clamp to the pin. The bone pins connect to a bone fragment such that as the clamp shifts along the sleeve, the bone fragment is transported between two portions of a bone. An internally threaded sleeve is carried by the externally threaded sleeve and engages the clamp. Upon rotation of the internally threaded sleeve, the clamp and externally threaded sleeve move longitudinally along the sleeve.

Abstract: A clamping assembly for bone-screw or bone-pin adjustment (a) longitudinally along the guideway of an external fixator, and (b) angularly about a pivot axis at a selected longitudinal location. The clamping assembly comprises a slide block adapted for releasably locked longitudinal positioning along the guideway, an intermediate plate element, and a clamp block, in sandwiched relation, with a single central bolt to secure (i) a selected angular setting of bone-screw engagement grooves coacting between the clamp block and the upper surface of the intermediate plate, and (ii) coacting arcuate tongue-and-groove formations wherein the releasably lockable coaction is between the slide block and the lower surface of the intermediate plate, to secure a given clamped angular orientation of bone-screw orientation with respect to the longitudinal direction of the guideway.

Abstract: A bone lengthening mechanism is placed into a bone which is then lengthened by extending the mechanism. The mechanism is extended by effecting a rotational movement in a drive bolt which mates with a threaded portion in a section of the mechanism. The threads convert the rotational movement to a longitudinal force thereby lengthening the bone.

Abstract: A spatial frame for positioning a first element or the like relative to a second element or the like.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a mechanical testing apparatus for determining the mechanical properties of an oriented tissue-equivalent, while simultaneously providing a suitable cell culture environment. The mechanical testing apparatus comprises an incubator equipped with means for controlling the atmosphere and means for controlling the temperature inside said incubator. Located within the incubator chamber are means for securing, in a desired location, the oriented tissue-equivalent to be mechanically tested. Further, the apparatus is equipped with means for controlling the length of the oriented tissue-equivalent, means for determining the force generated by the oriented tissue-equivalent, means for determining the length of the oriented tissue-equivalent and means for conditioning and recording force and length measurements.

Abstract: A distraction device for osteosynthesis includes a first member which is telescopically housed within a second member. The first and second members are attached to first and second bone segments, respectively. The device includes a ratchet wheel having teeth which engage teeth of the first member. Rotation of the ratchet wheel cause the first member to telescopically extend from its second member housing in an arcuate path.

Abstract: A device for the gradual correction of a bone fracture which has already been set in the operating theatre comprises an elongated structure (1) which defines a longitudinal axis (L) which can be positioned parallel to the bone and comprises a pair of end supports (10, 11) releasably anchored to corresponding bolt-bearing end clamps (6, 7) of an external fixation unit (2) which has already been fitted to the fractured pieces (F1, F2), a central body (24) connected to supports (10, 11) by connection means formed by longitudinal (32) and transverse (25) adjustment means to correct the longitudinal distance and transverse offset between the supports respectively, angular adjustment means (39) to correct the relative inclination of one of the supports with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) rotating it about a transverse axis (T), and centering means (40, 49, 50, 51) to align the transverse axis (T) with the centre of the fracture.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus for externally reducing and/or fixating a fracture in a bone. The apparatus includes a radiolucent rod, and a carriage assembly with a clamp assembly for connection to a fixation pin. A sleeve is threadingly connected with the carriage assembly and is disposed about the rod. A clamping device interconnects the sleeve with the rod at a selective one of a plurality of locations along a length of the rod. Rotation of the sleeve relative to the carriage assembly moves the rod in an axial direction relative to the carriage assembly.

Abstract: A cast brace for use for the treatment of children having femoral shaft fractures. The brace includes a main support bracket adapted to extend from a support cast. A tension assembly extending from the brace to a support yolk applying tension to a K-wire extending transversely through the leg specifically the tibia adjacent the tip of the medial malleolus secured to a traction bow. Adjustability of the traction tension to facilitate proper bone alignment and to expedite the time required to maintain the limb in traction.

Abstract: An auxiliary device for use in the external setting of fractures is particularly adapted for use in association with an external axial fixator or splint having bolt-holding clamps with spherical joints for fixing bone bolts or screws which can be implanted in fractured pieces of bone. The auxiliary device comprises a central body which can be elongated axially and has end portions which can be releasably coupled to corresponding bolt-holding clamps on an external axial fixator or splint associated therewith; the said end portions are attached to the central body by means of corresponding hinges having hinge axes (20, 20') which are retained in parallel relation to each other and perpendicular to the axis of the body, and securing means is provided for selecting the orientation of the axes of these hinges, without changing their retained parallel-axis relation, so as to allow the bolt-holding clamps to rotate in a single plane at a time of predetermined position.

Abstract: The present invention is a bone fixator for repairing fractures of the distal radius and wrist. It includes, in the preferred embodiment, at least two generally parallel, spaced-apart elongate distal mounting pins with lower ends for mounting in the metacarpal bone and at least two generally parallel, spaced-apart elongate radial mounting pins with lower ends for mounting in the radius. A distal pin clamp assembly secures the distal pins to an elongate distal member. The clamp assembly and pins are movably coupled to the distal member for translational movement along its elongate axis and pivotal motion about a pivot axis generally perpendicular to the elongate axis of the distal member and the elongate axes of the distal pins.

Abstract: A fixation device for repairing a fracture of a bone having a medullary canal, where the device includes a radial transcutaneous pin configured to be mounted generally radially to the bone on a first side of the fracture and the radial transcutaneous pin includes an external free end. The device further includes an axial transcutaneous pin configured to enter the bone on a second side of the fracture and extend axially down the medullary canal with the axial transcutaneous pin including an external free end. An external member is configured to extend between the free ends of the pins and secure them relative to each other.

Abstract: A cable winding for retention of bone in surgery having a crimp for retaining the cables together. The crimp has a bore of oval cross section, with its exterior being preferably oval in cross section as well. The cable sections extend through the single bore in side-by-side relation. Outwardly projecting flanges extend from the crimp ends for at least about 120.degree. about the periphery to create a space between the flanges when the flanges rest on bone. This space may be used to receive the crimping jaws during the crimping process so that the crimp does not have to be forced outwardly from the bone during the crimping process. Thus, a more consistent, predetermined tension can be provided to the cable on crimping.

Abstract: An external fixator for securing a first bone portion in a fixed relationship with respect to a second bone portion. The fixator includes a bone screw clamp for receiving a first bone screw which is connected to the first bone portion and which includes a spherical portion. The fixator further includes a bone screw clamp which is operable to receive a second bone screw which is connected to the second bone portion and which has a spherical portion. The fixator also includes a connection member having a radiographic window to permit radiographic examination of the bone fracture, as well as a cantilever member operable to secure the circle portions of the first and second bone screw clamps to the connection member.

Abstract: An external fixator for securing two or more bone elements. The external fixator includes an elongated bar; a first carriage for mounting on the bar and for securement to a first bone element; a second carriage for mounting on the bar and for securement to a second bone element; and a drive mechanism for driving the first and second carriages along the length of the bar independent of one another.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for the reduction of bone fractures. The apparatus includes an x-ray imaging system which compares the fractured bone with an unfractured bone, a robot controller which controls a robot hand so as to move the fractured bone in response to a command from a physician, and a safeguard system to detect abnormal tension in the limbs which can sound an alarm and cease robot motion if an error is detected. The method includes the comparison of x-ray images of unfractured and fractured bones and the movement of a robot hand grasping a fractured bone in a direction suitable for effective bone reduction.

Abstract: The present invention is a bone fixator for repairing fractures of the distal radius and wrist. It includes, in the preferred embodiment, at least two generally parallel spaced-apart elongate distal mounting pins with lower ends for mounting in the metacarpal bone and at least two generally parallel spaced-apart elongate radial mounting pins with lower ends for mounting in the radius. A distal pin clamp assembly secures the distal pins to an elongate distal member. The clamp assembly and pins are movably coupled to the distal member for translational movement along its elongate axis and pivotal motion about a pivot axis generally perpendicular to the elongate axis of the distal member and the elongate axes of the distal pins. The fixator further includes a proximal pin mounting block for securing the radial pins and an elongate medial assembly of adjustable length.

Abstract: An apparatus for lengthening bones is disclosed including a plurality of frame elements (12) spaced apart from one another. The frame elements are U-shaped for at least partially enclosing the bone, and two elements may be connected to fully enclose the bone. Fixation elements (14) that transfix the bone approximately perpendicular to its long direction are secured to the frame elements. Telescopically extendable tensioning elements (16) connect the frame elements together and fix them in position relative to one another. The frame elements (12) include a plurality of rows (18, 18') of longitudinal slots (20, 20', 20"). The tensioning elements (16) are clamped to the frame elements at aligned slots and the fixation elements (14) are similarly clamped to the appropriate slots in the corresponding frame elements. The tensioning elements include three threaded sections with a first section including a spindle and sleeve with a second and third threaded section threaded into the first section.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device for the gradual distraction of bones, to be used especially in craniofacial dysostoses with early stenosis of the cranial sutures, comprising an internally threaded first sleeve intermeshing with an externally threaded spindle, which has an activating point. The spindle consists of an anterior extension, which slides into a second, unthreaded sleeve and rotates freely therein. The first sleeve is fitted with the first mounting plate, which rotates and features bore holes for the fixation via mini-screws to bone. The second sleeve embracing the spindle, is furnished with the holding elements for attachment in or to the bone.

Abstract: The invention provides a fixator device for controlling the position of the femur relative to the pelvis during surgery, comprising a first curved rigid bar member having a pelvis anchor member disposed along its length for anchoring the bar member to the innominate bone of the pelvis, said bar member having a first end for anchoring to the upper pelvis and a second end for anchoring to the lower pelvis, and a second bar member attached at one end to the first bar member, and having a femur anchor member at its second end for anchoring to the base of the femur, to thereby control and fix the position of the femur relative to the pelvis during surgical operations.

Abstract: An external fixation apparatus 2 that allows the transfixation wire 10 to be secured at a plurality of discrete positions to provide adjustability of the angular orientation of the wire with respect to the plane of a frame ring 6. The fixation apparatus 2 includes a transfixation wire or pin 10 that is connected between a transmitting clamp 20 and a receiving clamp 40 that are shiftably carried atop of a partial frame ring 6. A wire retainer 50 is secured to the distal end 14 of the transfixation wire. The receiving clamp 40 includes a raised member 46 adapted for receiving distal end 14 of wire 10 and mating with retainer 50 at a variety of discrete positions along the length of raised member 46. Retainer 50 uses two screws 54, 56 to secure distal end 14 of wire 10 within a longitudinal through bore 51. Screw 54 extends into longitudinal bore 51 to engage wire 10 near the proximal end of retainer 50.

Abstract: The invention concerns a unilateral, extensible external tensioning device for treating bone disease and for the purpose of axially and externally affixing bones or parts of fractured bones. At least one piston is mounted on both sides in telescoping manner to a central portion with various linking mechanisms being rotatably attachable to the outer ends of the pistons for receiving bone screw clamping mechanisms.

Abstract: Distraction Osteogenesis is a procedure for lengthening a bone. The Ilizarov External Fixator is an apparatus employed in the distraction osteogenesis procedure. The prospects for a successful clinical outcome of the procedure are enhanced by modifying the Ilizarov apparatus to obtain measurements of loads generated during the procedure. An apparatus and method for the clinical use of load measurements taken during the distraction osteogenesis procedure are disclosed. An alternative method is disclosed for converting load measurements to stress data in order to enhance the clinical outcome of the procedure. Additionally, the method may be employed to assess completion of the healing process.

Abstract: A surgical connector for cable comprises a body having a pair of opposed ends and a first side extending between the ends. Outwardly extending projections adjacent the first side and ends may be provided to facilitate securance of the connector in a desired position. Cable-receiving bores extend from each of the ends inwardly toward each other, typically at an obtuse angle of less than 180.degree.. The bores have inner ends that communicate with a central aperture which is open to at least the side of the body which is opposed to the first side. Alternatively, the central aperture may extend entirely through the body and be open to both the first side and the opposed side. Also, a novel retention technique for cable is disclosed, for more general use, if desired.

Abstract: A manipulator for reducing a bone fracture has adjustable elements for manipulating external fixation devices which are connected to the bone segments on either side of the fracture. The manipulator includes a circular sector having a first half sector portion and a second half sector portion. The sector portions are coupled for relative sliding movement therebetween for extending and retracting the arc of said circular sector. The manipulator includes a locking element for locking the first and second half sector portion at selected relative positions. Each of said first and second half sector portions has a generally cylindrical recess formed at the outer end thereof.A pair of cylindrical bushings having an outer cylindrical surface with teeth extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bushings are provided. One of the cylindrical bushings are rotatably mounted in each of the generally cylindrical recesses in the first and second half sector portions.

Abstract: An external fixation device that allows passive or active flexion/extension range of motion of the proximal interphalangeal joint. The fixation device assures maintenance of congruent proximal interphalangeal joint throughout the flexion/extension arc. The device attaches to orthopedically placed pins in the proximal phalanx and middle phalanx. Components placed between the pins include an adjustable hinge support that is centered over the axis of the joint for articulation of a hinge member. The hinge member allows distraction and/or compression along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the hinge member. In addition, the device provides for dorsal/volar adjustability by use of alignment pins and an adjustment bolt placed perpendicular to the distraction/compression mechanism. The result is a fully adjustable external fixation device that allows 110 degrees of passive and active motion further allowing for the transient realignment of the subluxed joint providing joint congruency.

Abstract: A humeral fracture brace for providing rigid lateral support to the humerus which includes a humeral cuff that is pivotally connected to a forearm support by a sliding hinge that allows the forearm support to slide relative to the axis of the humeral cuff. The forearm support includes a rigid brace bar and a generally U-shaped cuff for engaging a patient's wrist. An adjustable shoulder strap with a slidable pad is connected between the humeral cuff and the forearm support.

Abstract: Bone fixation device comprising a profiled bar (1) on which at least two supporting members (2) have been movably and lockably mounted. The supporting members (2) comprise a sliding portion (3) having an opening (4) therein for passing the bar (1) and a supporting plate (5) extending from the sliding part (3), with a convex and concave surface (12, 13). Against the convex surface lies a ring (15) and against the concave surface lies a convex surface (21) of a receiving element (20, 27) in which screws (23) have been clamped, which can be secured in a bone part (24). Through the ring (15) extends a bolt (7) that has been screwed into one of a number of threaded bores (19) in the receiving element (20, 27) and which bolt extends through a relatively large opening in the supporting plate (5).

Abstract: A clamping coupling for fixing bone screws, pins or the like incorporates a rotary joint between the bone-screw fixing region of the coupling and a ball-joint connection region of the coupling, whereby an extended range of angular adaptability and fixation are achievable, as compared to the more limited range of angular articulation achieved by the ball-joint action alone.

Abstract: A device for treating and preventing injuries and contractures of the elbow joint, particularly supination-pronation contractures and proximal radial head fractures. The device includes bracing sections for fixing the device to the radius and the ulna, and for permitting movement of the attached radius continually along a path which is adapted and adjusted to be aligned with the kinematic axis of the proximal radial-ulnar joint.

Abstract: An implantable bone distraction device and method of using the device are disclosed. The device includes spaced first and second low profile blocks for subcutaneous implantation and attachment to osteotomically separated bone sections. The first block defines a drive chamber bore while the second block defines a threaded bore. A rotatable drive rod having a first end is received in the drive chamber bore of the first block. The rotatable drive rod's other end is threadably received in the threaded bore of the second block. The device further includes drive rod actuator located in the drive chamber bore for cooperating with the first end of the drive rod to rotate the drive rod so that one can adjust the depth to which the rod's threaded end is received in the threaded bore of the second block. This enables one to adjust the spacing between the first and second blocks, thereby enabling one to controllably distract the separated bone sections to enhance bone growth therebetween.

Abstract: A pelvic fixation device and method for the initial stabilization and reduction of pelvic ring fractures, includes an adjustable radiolucent frame, first and second fixation pins connected to the frame in spaced relation relative to each other for fixing the frame to the posterior pelvis on opposite sides of the fracture, an adjustment mechanism for moving the first and second fixation pins relative to each other for stabilizing and reducing the pelvic fracture, and an adjustable spacer for adjusting the distance between the device and the patient.

Abstract: A pelvic stabilizer for quickly stabilizing fractures of the human pelvis and preventing excessive blood loss. The pelvic stabilizer comprises first and second curved arms which are rotatably attached to each other at first ends by an adjustable locking mechanism. The locking mechanism permits free second ends of the first and second curved arms to be adjustably spaced from each other. A first mounting pin and a second mounting pin are adjustably attached at the second ends of the first and second curved arms respectively.

Abstract: This external fixator for the correction and reduction of bone fragments comprises a bar (1) fastened to a biocompression system (5), on which bar and system are disposed the supports (2,3) for fastening the pins inserted into the bones, the components of which supports are movable in accordance with the arrows A, B, C and D. The member (6) permits the longitudinal displacement of the clip (2) in the direction of the arrow E, while the biocompression system (5) makes a reciprocating movement in accordance with the arrow F.A damping member (90,290) cooperates with means for regulating the force applied which are disposed outside the bar. Graduated markings (99,283) indicate the value of the force applied.

Abstract: An external fixator frame for reducing pelvic fractures consisting of a rectangular horizontal frame connecting to the pelvis through removable pins (FIG. 2). A ratchet or compressive horizontal arm of the frame is used to rapidly insert the pins into the pelvis and simultaneously reduce the pelvic fracture by applying compression across it. The rapidity and simplicity of application permits early use in an emergency setting prior to other studies and treament modalities.

Abstract: A device for promoting the healing of bones has a pair of elongated carriers which support screws to be anchored in bone structure. The screws are movable longitudinally of the carriers by means of spindles. The carriers are joined to one another by a connector consisting of a rigid rod having a ball at either end. The balls are received in part-spherical sockets formed in the respective carriers and can be fixed relative to the carriers via screws.