Other

Orthopedic Designs North America, Inc

Luis Vega

Lance Fagan

The Intramedullary Nail System including Tang-deployment Screw with Male Interface includes a nail for insertion into the intramedullary canal of the femur and a lag screw for insertion through the nail, into the femoral head of the femur. The nail is held within the intramedullary canal of the femur, affixed internally by the lag screw and tangs, without the use of screws that penetrate the surface of the bone, and without requiring significant x-ray exposure. For nails of small diameter, a coupler, with two female ends, allows the diameter of the male/female interface between the driver and the actuator, which in turn extends the tangs, to be increased. This increase is possible because the lower section of the nail, where the talons are stored prior to extension, is of a larger diameter than the remainder of the nail.

Intramedullary nail system including tang-deployment screw with male interface

The disclosed device solves the problem of fixation of a fractured humerus, or other long bone, by allowing a surgeon to first fix the proximal end of the implant and set the fracture, followed by fixation of the distal end without the use of screws.

Growing community of inventors

Tampa, FL, United States of America

Luis Vega