Importance

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Abstract

A post-fracture bone immobilization splint for unilateral fixation comprises a rigid bar on which are slidably mounted at least four pin clamps. Each pin clamp is fixable to the bar and is provided with a pin to engage a part of the fractured bone. The pin is supported in two holes diametrically located in a hollow cylindrical portion of the pin clamp, the diameter of the holes being larger than the pin diameter such that the pin can be adjusted slidingly as well as azimuthally within a limited range of zenith angles. The annular gap surrounding the pin is sealed by surrounding moveable washers which are spaced apart within cylindrical portion by a plastic tube through which the pin passes. The remainder of the hollow portion is filled with small ball bearings that are compressible by a threaded plug. The pin is positioned as desired and the threaded plug is then rotated to compress the ball bearings which deform the plastic tube and thereby grip the pin. Under greater compressive force, the ball bearings will penetrate the plastic tube and deformably engage the pin.

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First Claim