INTERNAL OSTEOTOMY FIXATION DEVICE

摘要

An internal osteotomy fixation apparatus 20 is provided. The device 20 comprises a distal plate 24 including a channel 28. A slide 26 is slidably received within the channel such that the slide is translatable with respect to the distal plate along a first axis L. A proximal plate 22 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 30 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. A minimum length of the device is related to the longer of the ratchet arm or the segment of teeth on the slide. The distal plate includes a hole through which a release mechanism is accessible.