Arcuate element and external fixation device containing same for osteosynthesis and osteoplasty

An external fixation device for osteosynthesis comprising:

• (a) first and second and sets of at least one pine or wire each, each set for retaining a bone portion;
• (b) a plurality of assembly rods for interconnecting said first set and said second set;
• and
• (c) means for connecting said first set of at least one pin or wire to said assembly rods comprising:
• at least one arcuate element having generally a shape of a toroid or part of a toroid and having substantially no discontinuities over the length of said arcuate element for enabling at least one support member and at least one clamping member to move freely along said length and be secured in any desired position thereon, and
• said arcuate element having a transverse cross section comprising a spacing web connecting opposed inner and outer polygonal-shaped clamping rims,
• said support member having means for supporting said first set of at least one pin or wire on said arcuate member, and
• said clamping member having means for gripping one of said assembly rods so as to connect said assembly rod with said arcuate member, and
• each of said support member and clamping member having means to engage and be secured in any position along the length of said arcuate member either to said inner clamping rim only, or to said outer clamping rim only, or, one rim at a time, to both of said inner clamping rim and said outer clamping rim.