Patent ID: 6702814
Filing Date: 2004-03-09
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A clamp assembly of an external fixation system for connecting first and second elongated members, the clamp assembly comprising:a first clamp member for engaging the first elongated member, the first clamp member including a first jaw portion and a second jaw portion, the first and second jaw portions at least partially defining a laterally extending channel for receiving the first elongated member, the first and second jaw portions connected by a first hinge portion, the first jaw portion including a free end normally spaced apart from a free end of the second jaw a distance less than a diameter of the first elongated member; a second clamp member having first and second jaw portions at least partially defining a laterally extending channel for receiving a second elongated rod; a fastener connecting the first and second clamp members, wherein rotation of the fastener in a first direction draws the first and second clamp members together, and wherein cooperating serrations on the first and second clamp members prevent relative rotation between the first and second clamp members; and a nut engaged to the fastener and matingly received in a countersunk portion of the first jaw portion of the second clamp member, such that the nut does not rotate relative to the second clamp member, wherein the nut includes a lip which prevents rotation of the second elongated rod upon tightening of the clamp assembly.