External fixation device
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method of installing a pin extending from the soft tissue and bone of a user substantially parallel with a previously installed pin in an external fixation device comprising the steps of:
- clamping an exposed free end of said previously installed pin into one aperture of a multi-aperture pin holder;
inserting a tubular sheath through an adjacent one of said apertures in said pin holder;
extending said sheath through said soft tissue to contact said bone;
inserting a drill through said sheath to drill a hole through said bone along an axis parallel to the axis of said sheath;
removing said drill from said sheath;
measuring the diameter of said bone at the location of said hole;
inserting a pin through said sheath and into said hole drilled in said bone;
withdrawing said sheath from said pin holder while maintaining said pin within said bone; and
clamping the exposed free end of the newly installed pin into said adjacent aperture in said pin holder.
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Abstract
An improved external fixation device is disclosed composed of a pair of arcuate frame segments and multiple adjustment rods and pin holders, which cooperate with one another as well as plural pins extending through the soft tissue and bone of a patient to rigidly immobilize a bone fracture and permit compression, neutralization or distraction of the fracture from a location external to the body.
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Citations
5 Claims
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1. A method of installing a pin extending from the soft tissue and bone of a user substantially parallel with a previously installed pin in an external fixation device comprising the steps of:
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clamping an exposed free end of said previously installed pin into one aperture of a multi-aperture pin holder; inserting a tubular sheath through an adjacent one of said apertures in said pin holder; extending said sheath through said soft tissue to contact said bone; inserting a drill through said sheath to drill a hole through said bone along an axis parallel to the axis of said sheath; removing said drill from said sheath; measuring the diameter of said bone at the location of said hole; inserting a pin through said sheath and into said hole drilled in said bone; withdrawing said sheath from said pin holder while maintaining said pin within said bone; and clamping the exposed free end of the newly installed pin into said adjacent aperture in said pin holder. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
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Specification