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System and method for a cap used in the fixation of bone fractures

  • US 8,679,167 B2
  • Filed: 02/23/2007
  • Issued: 03/25/2014
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/18/2001
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A system for facilitating a change in distance between objects, said system including:

  • a head component configured to attach to one of said objects;

    a wire having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end of said wire is configured to mate with said head component;

    a cap configured to mate with said second end of said wire, wherein said cap permits distal travel of said cap with respect to said wire, but resists proximal travel of said cap with respect to said wire, wherein said cap includes a tension spring which engages said wire, wherein said tension spring asserts friction against said wire in response to said cap being translated in one direction, but minimal friction against said wire in response to said cap being translated in an opposite direction;

    wherein said tension spring includes a tab joining and extending from an outer ring and an inner ring, wherein said inner ring is spaced radially from said outer ring; and

    a cover which encapsulates said tension spring within a head portion of said cap, wherein said cover contacts said tab causing said inner ring to at least one of flex, tilt or torque.

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