Patent ID: 6224594
Filing Date: 2001-05-01
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A device for generating passive motion of a joint while applying traction, the joint having been prepared by insertion of at least one pin into each of a proximal and a distal bone adjacent to the joint, the device comprising:(a) a proximal bracket for engaging the at least one pin of the proximal bone;(b) a distal bracket for engaging the at least one pin of the distal bone; and(c) a tension-hinge mechanism connecting between said proximal bracket and said distal bracket, said tension-hinge mechanism including:(i) a hinge for permitting rotational movement of said distal bracket relative to said proximal bracket about a hinge axis, at least one of said proximal bracket and said distal bracket being implemented as a movable bracket slidingly mounted so as to be displaceable in a direction substantially perpendicular to said hinge axis, and(ii) a traction mechanism having an elastic element for applying substantially constant force over a predefined range of positions of said movable bracket so as to apply tension across the joint.