BASIC CONCEPTS RELEVANT TO THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE POINT-CONTACT FIXATOR (PC-FIX)

The PC-Fix represents a novel approach to internal fixation. It has be en designed for the optimal preservation of biology, to enhance fractu re healing, and to improve resistance to infection. The PC-Fix can be understood functionally as a completely implanted external fixator. Al though the PC-Fix resembles a plate, its biological and mechanical cha racteristics are different. The implant has minimal contact to the bon e. Instead of pressing the splint onto the bone to produce friction, t he atraumatic monocortical screws act as pegs connecting the splint to the bone. Force transmission by friction is abolished, therefore, the contact to the bone can be minimized. Ease of application is enhanced by a specially designed distracter. The function of the distracter is based on hinges which permit and maintain the reduction of the fractu re fragments while the axes are aligned and rotation adjusted.