Importance

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Abstract

The present invention is directed to improvements in fastening systems used to reattach a skull flap removed during brain surgery where such fastening systems include elements, usually flat or disc shaped, placed on both sides of a patient's cranium that are connected by a post, wire, shank or other similar structure. The improvement consists of a washer made of a compliant material that improves the fixation properties of the fastening system elements. The washer in one embodiment is simply a flat disc made of a compliant material with a centrally located hole. In an alternate embodiment, the washer wraps around the flat or disc shaped element of the fastening system. In a further variant of the embodiments described, the washer includes a central protrusion extending away from top side of the washer. In a further alternate embodiment of the washer in all the described embodiments may also be placed on the upper or outer lock element of a fastening system. In a still further embodiment of the invention, the washer takes the form of a cylindrical plug substantially similar to the central protrusion described herein.

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First Claim