External fixation devices for orthopaedic fractures

Abstract

An external fixation device for orthopaedic fractures is provided comprising: a longitudinally-slotted elongate member (20); a plurality of like clamps (30) of two-part form, suitably a longitudinally-bored bolt (31) and nut (38), interconnectable about the member, a first one (31) of such parts serving to clamp a bone pin (10); and a drill guide (40) suitably of split bush form adapted for interchange with one (31) of said clamp parts in connection with the other clamp part (38); each clamp and guide being adapted when connected with the member respectively to align a bone pin and drill, which can be the pin itself, in a common predetermined direction relative to the member. This device facilitates parallel alignment of an array of bone pins by use of the guide and clamps in successive connection with the member to determine a common frame of reference. The split bush guide preferably defines a passageway (46) which is diametrally enlarged (47) at its end remote from the member to allow entry of the threaded portion normally provided on a bone pin, this enlargement being exposed by lateral aperturing (48) of the bush. The device can be unilateral in overall form, or bilateral by the provision of a further member and associated set of clamps.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.