David C Churchill

US Patent:

6852113, Feb 8, 2005

Filed:

Dec 14, 2001

Appl. No.:

10/021980

Inventors:

Jeremy J. Nathanson - Vista CA, US
Dylann D. Ceriani - San Diego CA, US
Richard Gildersleeve - Escondido CA, US
Daniel S. Pflaster - Carlsbad CA, US
David L. Churchill - Burlington VT, US
Stephen J. Incavo - South Burlington VT, US
Bruce D. Beynnon - South Burlington VT, US

Assignee:

Orthopaedic Designs, LLC - Burlington VT

International Classification:

A61B017/80

US Classification:

606 71, 606 69, 606 73

Abstract:

An internal osteotomy fixation apparatus is provided. The device comprises a distal plate including a channel. A slide is slidably received within the channel such that the slide is translatable with respect to the distal plate along a first axis. A proximal plate is hingedly connected to the slide, such that the proximal plate has two degrees of freedom relative to the distal plate. A ledge protruding from a first portion of the proximal plate is configured to support a proximal bone segment when the device is implanted. The slide includes ratchet teeth. A ratchet arm including teeth is attached to the distal plate, and configured to engage the slide ratchet teeth. A cross-section of the ratchet arm is configured to maintain a constant stress level along a flexed portion of the arm. The distal plate includes a shelf upon which the ratchet arm rests. Compressive loads borne by the device are translated through the shelf to the distal plate.