Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides an improved orthopedic system in which the part of the device that attaches to the bone is detachable from the parts of the device which provide the bone stabilization, distraction, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes a proximal bone plate and associated proximal fastener, and a distal bone plate and associated distal fastener. The bone plates are affixed to the bone on opposing sides of the bone repair site, which may be an osteotomy. The fasteners serve to mechanically couple the orthopedic device, which may be a distractor, through the bone plates, to the bone. The fasteners are releasably mechanically coupled to the bone plates. This releasability permits the distractor and fasteners to be removed after the orthopedic procedure is complete, leaving only the bone plates in the patient.

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First Claim