Patent Description:
The present invention relates to orthopedic medical procedure positioning devices/systems and, more particularly, to a wrist traction tower trap and finger trap system.

During arthroscopic surgery in the wrist, for example, surgeons use traction to create enough space in the wrist joint for the appropriate and efficient use of an arthroscope and other related instruments. Conventional traction towers are commonly used to create such traction needed for wrist arthroscopic surgical procedures, radiographic procedures and other related medical procedures. Strap and finger traps are used with the traction tower to assist in positioning and distracting the patient's arms for orthopedic hand and wrist surgical procedures. The straps provide an atraumatic method for securing the patient's forearm and bicep to the traction tower. The finger traps retain an atraumatic method of securing the patient's fingers. However, conventional traction tower straps and finger traps are limited in their ability to accommodate a wide variety of individual patient sizes and difficult to tighten and release from each patient.

Therefore, there is a need for traction tower straps and finger traps that are easily adjustable and releasable.

Description of the Related Art Section Disclaimer: To the extent that specific patents/publications/products are discussed above in this Description of the Related Art Section or elsewhere in this disclosure, these discussions should not be taken as an admission that the discussed patents/publications/products are prior art for patent law purposes. For example, some or all of the discussed patents/publications/products may not be sufficiently early in time, may not reflect subject matter developed early enough in time and/or may not be sufficiently enabling so as to amount to prior art for patent law purposes.

<CIT> discloses a traction tower system with the features in the preamble of present claim <NUM>. Other conventional orthopedic system are described in <CIT> and <CIT>.

Disclosed is a wrist traction tower and related traction tower scale. The wrist traction tower is directed to a system with multiple parts, one or more of which are configured, attached, positioned and/or structured to move (e.g., slide, telescope, rotate, twist, turn) with respect to one or more of the other parts of the system. Such adjustability, maneuverability and flexibility provide for an improved and enhanced orthopedic medical procedure positioning system (as compared to conventional devices/systems), which can accommodate a wide variety of lengths and sizes of patients' arms while at the same time providing sufficient space for medical practitioners and their respective equipment to perform surgical, radiographic and other related medical procedures. Elements of the traction tower system can be made of Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Brass, and Plastic (PEEK).

Disclosed is a traction tower assembly which can include a first tower having a first side surface and a second tower having a second side surface positioned adjacent to the first side surface, wherein the second tower is movable with respect to the first tower in a first direction and in a second direction; and an elongated arm assembly attached to and extending from the tower assembly. A traction tower scale can also be part of the disclosed traction tower assembly.

When positioning the height of upper tower and connected arm assembly with respect to the lower tower, an individual patient's wrist joint should be about <NUM> (<NUM> inch) above the rotation joint (as identified below). This allows a medical practitioner to, for example, x-ray the wrist while keeping it attached to the traction tower. If there is metal too close to the wrist joint, the x-ray image could be affected.

These and other aspects will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described hereinafter whereas only those embodiments which realize the features defined in appended claim <NUM> are embodiments of the invention.

The present invention will be more fully understood and appreciated by reading the following Detailed Description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the disclosed subject matter may admit to other equally effective embodiments. Reference is now made briefly to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

Aspects of the present invention and certain features, advantages, and details thereof, are explained more fully below with reference to the non-limiting examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which only <FIG> depict the characterizing features defined in appended claim <NUM>. Descriptions of well-known structures are omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the invention in detail. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific non-limiting examples, while indicating aspects of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, and are not by way of limitation. Various substitutions, modifications, additions, and/or arrangements, within the scope of the underlying inventive concepts as defined in the claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

Referring now to the figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout, <FIG> shows an exploded perspective view schematic representation of a traction tower <NUM> according to an embodiment. <FIG> and <FIG> are assembled perspective view schematic representations of the traction tower <NUM> shown in <FIG>, according to an embodiment. As shown, the traction tower <NUM> includes a base plate <NUM>, a tower assembly, and an arm assembly. The tower assembly is shown having multiple parts - a lower tower <NUM> and an upper tower <NUM> - that fit together, and where the upper tower <NUM> is moveable with respect to the lower tower <NUM> (as discussed further below). The lower tower <NUM> is removably securable on the base plate <NUM> (via any attachment means <NUM> including a clip, keyed slide and lock mechanism, nut and bolt etc., as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with this disclosure). In addition, the lower tower <NUM> can include a peg <NUM>-<NUM>, which is biased in the downward (protruding from the bottom surface of the lower tower <NUM>) direction via a spring (not shown) positioned in the lower tower <NUM>. The peg <NUM>-<NUM> can be lifted up by sliding button <NUM>-<NUM>, and be fully positioned within the lower tower <NUM>. The peg <NUM>-<NUM> can fit into a hole formed in the base plate <NUM> (not shown), and the lower tower can then be turned (clockwise or counterclockwise) to assist with the locking of the lower tower <NUM> to the base plate <NUM>. According to an embodiment, all other elements/parts of the traction tower <NUM> can be, but do not have to be, moveable with respect to at least one other element/part of the traction tower <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, lower tower <NUM> is L-shaped and is configured to snuggly fit upper tower <NUM> as shown. The tower assembly can include additional pieces, and can include multiple shapes as long as the pieces fit together in a snug arrangement and the overall movement and locking functionality is similar or remains the same as described herein. The tower assembly components (here the lower tower <NUM> and upper tower <NUM>), can be secured/locked together by a locking knob <NUM>. The stem <NUM>-<NUM> of locking knob <NUM> is positionable through lateral apertures positioned in each of lower tower <NUM> and upper tower <NUM>, and the knob end can be turned to secure each tower component together (as should be understood by a person of skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure). The aperture in the upper tower <NUM> is a hole (not shown) shaped to snugly fit, engage and secure the stem of the locking knob <NUM> when the knob end is turned in the appropriate direction (and be disengaged and be released from the aperture in the upper tower when the knob is turned in the opposite direction). The aperture <NUM>-<NUM> in lower tower <NUM> is elongated up and down (partially shown in <FIG>) to allow for upward and downward movement of the upper tower <NUM> with respect to the lower tower <NUM>, where the upper tower <NUM> can be resecured to the lower tower <NUM> per use of the locking knob <NUM> (as described herein and as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure). In accordance with an additional embodiment, the lower tower <NUM> can include a different or additional elongated aperture(s) to allow for relative movement of the upper tower <NUM> with respect to the lower tower <NUM> in a diagonal direction, horizontal direction, or other directions at an angle to the vertical direction B---B when assembled. In accordance with an alternative embodiment, the types of apertures could be reversed between the upper <NUM> and lower <NUM> towers. Upper tower <NUM> also can include an aperture or through hole <NUM> (longitudinally shaped or other shapes) that can accommodate a strap to hold a patient's forearm to the traction tower <NUM>. The upper tower <NUM> also includes an alignment peg <NUM>-<NUM>, which is configured to fit into a corresponding elongated hole (up and down, not shown) in the lower tower <NUM>. This alignment peg <NUM>-<NUM> acts in conjunction with the stem <NUM>-<NUM> to assist with the alignment of the upper tower <NUM> with respect to the lower tower <NUM> and to prevent the upper tower <NUM> from unwanted movement/rotation with respect to the lower tower <NUM> when the relative height of the upper tower <NUM> is adjusted with respect to the lower tower <NUM>.

Continuing to refer to <FIG>, a rotation joint <NUM> connects the tower assembly to the arm assembly. A stem <NUM> of the rotation joint <NUM> is positionable and rotatable in the upper tower <NUM> (as shown, positioned through the top surface <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper tower <NUM>, and as discussed further below). The top surface <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper tower is configured to extend along a plane at an angle to the bottom surface <NUM>-<NUM> and/or to the plane of the base plate <NUM> A---A when assembled. Alternatively, the top surface <NUM>-<NUM> can extend along a plane that is parallel to the plane of the base plate <NUM> A---A. The first end of the lower arm <NUM> includes a slotted base end <NUM>, which is removably positionable, rotatable and lockable within the head <NUM>-<NUM> of the rotation joint <NUM> (as discussed further below). Lower arm <NUM> extends away from the slotted base end <NUM> and an elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> to a curved portion <NUM> of the lower arm <NUM>, which extends to an elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM>. Upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> extends at an angle to an axis (which can be any angle including <NUM> degrees, substantially perpendicular to perpendicular) of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM>. An elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM>, can but does not have to be solid, fits and is telescopically moveable within the elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM>, which is formed as a tube. Lever <NUM> is connected to elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM>. Lever <NUM> includes a protrusion or tooth on the end positioned within the elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM>, which can be positioned and fit in between the ridges <NUM>-<NUM> formed on at least one side of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM> (which faces the protrusion or tooth of lever <NUM> when the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM> is positioned within the elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM>). When lever <NUM> is actuated in a first direction positioning the protrusion or tooth in between one of the pairs of ridges <NUM>-<NUM>, the upper arm <NUM> is fixed/secured/locked with respect to the lower arm <NUM>. When lever <NUM> is actuated in a second direction, the upper arm <NUM> is released from its fixed/secured/locked position and is free to move with respect to the lower arm <NUM> (e.g., further within or without the lower arm <NUM>). In accordance with an alternative embodiment, upper arm <NUM> can be tubular in structure, and lower arm <NUM> can be solid/non-tubular (but does not have to be) and contain ridges (essentially the opposite configuration shown in <FIG>). The lever arm <NUM> can be any type of actuator including a linear slider, circular actuator or switch etc. (as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure).

Elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM> extends away from the lower arm to a curved portion <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM>, which extends to an elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM>. Upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM> extends at an angle to an axis (which can be any angle including <NUM> degrees, substantially perpendicular to perpendicular) of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM>, and in essentially the same direction as the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> (and can extend, but does not have to, in a plane that is parallel or substantially parallel thereto; as shown, the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> points slightly more in the relatively downward direction as compared to elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM>, which is shown extending in a plane that is parallel or substantially parallel to plane A---A). Elongated upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM> includes a through hole <NUM>-<NUM> configured to assist with securing a traction tower scale (embodiments of the traction tower scale and its attachment to a traction tower are discussed further below) thereto.

As discussed above, there are several structural features and configurations that allow the traction tower <NUM> as a whole to be sized appropriately for an individual patient. In addition, as the height of the upper tower <NUM> is adjusted (as described with respect to <FIG> below), the forearm strap position <NUM> will move with it and is always relatively close to the patient's wrist (the closer to the wrist the better control the strap has). If the strap was in one fixed position it wouldn't work great for different patient sizes.

Turning to <FIG>, close up perspective view schematic representations of a lower portion of the traction tower <NUM> shown in <FIG> are provided, according to an embodiment. <FIG> are provided to show movement of upper tower <NUM> with respect to lower tower <NUM> to accommodate a variety of individual patent forearm sizes, and the structural features that allow for such movement. <FIG> shows the upper tower <NUM> in its relatively lowest position with respect to lower tower <NUM>, and <FIG> shows the upper tower <NUM> in its relatively highest position with respect to the lower tower <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the upper tower <NUM> is shown fitting snuggly within the outline of the lower tower <NUM> in the upper tower's <NUM> lowest position. As shown, the upper tower <NUM> and the lower tower <NUM> are held together by the locking knob <NUM> (as discussed above). An interlockable wave/serration pattern <NUM> may also be provided on each respective lateral facing surface of the upper tower <NUM> and lower tower <NUM> to assist with the locking of the upper tower <NUM> and the lower tower <NUM> together. The wave/serration pattern <NUM> can cover the whole of each respective lateral facing surface of the upper tower <NUM> and lower tower <NUM>, or some portion less than the whole of each respective surface. Also, as discussed above, adjustment of the upper tower <NUM> upwards is accomplished by (<NUM>) loosening the locking knob <NUM> and connection between the upper tower <NUM> and lower tower <NUM>, (<NUM>) movement of the knob <NUM> within the elongated aperture <NUM>-<NUM> (not shown) and upper tower <NUM> up from the position shown in <FIG> to the position shown in <FIG> and then tightening the locking knob <NUM> and upper tower <NUM> in the new position, and (<NUM>) as a result of the movement of the upper tower <NUM> in the up direction along arrow C, a number of other elements move in the up direction with respect to the lower tower <NUM> including the strap for the patient's arm (not shown) positionable through aperture <NUM>, rotation joint <NUM>, and the arm assembly. To move the upper tower <NUM> in the opposite direction, the same actions can be performed (i.e., starting with loosening of the locking knob <NUM>, movement of the locking knob <NUM> and the upper tower <NUM> etc. in the opposite direction etc.).

As discussed above, the top surface <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper tower is configured to extend along a plane postitioned at an angle to the plane of the base plate <NUM> A---A when assembled (see <FIG>). The rotation joint <NUM>, being attached to the top portion of the upper tower <NUM>, includes a rotation axis A1 extending at an angle to a straight up and down vertical axis - see B---B of <FIG>. By having the rotation joint <NUM>, which houses a portion of the lower arm <NUM>, positioned at an angle with an angled rotation axis A1 (see, e.g., <FIG>, which shows the rotation axis A1 created by angling the rotation joint <NUM> positioned on and its stem <NUM> positioned within upper tower <NUM>), the rotation of the rotation joint <NUM> and the arm assembly (explained further below) will not displace the point that the traction is created (as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure). This means that the arm assembly can be moved as shown in <FIG> without losing traction in the patient's arm or its position.

Turning to <FIG> and <FIG>, top and perspective view schematic representations showing the rotation range of rotation joint <NUM> (and, thus, the arm assembly) of the traction tower <NUM> about rotation axis A1. The rotation D of the rotation joint <NUM>/arm assembly about the rotation axis A1 (see, e.g., <FIG>) can be incremental and locked/unlocked via a slotted/tooth embodiment, as shown and described with respect to an additional rotation functionality (see also discussion with respect to <FIG>), can be non-incremental when locked/unlocked via frictional engagement, or can be locked/unlocked via other known lock/unlock mechanisms (as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure). The rotation range is shown by shadow (transparent) arm assembly structures <NUM> positioned around the starting or zero position shown by a solid arm assembly structure <NUM>. The position of the screw (not shown) that holds the traction scale at <NUM>-<NUM> remains consistent despite the rotation of the other portions of the arm assembly. As shown in <FIG>, a large portion of the arm assembly is offset from a patient's arm when in use, regardless of the arm assembly's rotation position, which creates sufficient space for surgical instruments. Stated differently, this structural configuration and associated functionality allows a medical practitioner to move the arm assembly around the patient's hand without affecting the position or traction of the hand itself. The ability to rotate the arm assembly can be important because if the medical practitioner needs more space around the outside of the wrist joint for medical instruments, the medical practitioner can just swing the arm assembly around to the back of the arm. Another use of this structural feature includes allowing the medical practitioner to maneuver the arm assembly in order to get a c-arm (x-ray machine) into position to take an x-ray while the wrist remains in traction.

Turning to <FIG>, a close up partially sectioned perspective view of a lower portion of the traction tower <NUM> is shown, according to an embodiment. The interface between the slotted base end <NUM> of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> and the rotation joint <NUM> is shown. In particular, the slots/teeth formed on the slotted base end <NUM> allow for incremental rotation of the arm assembly around a second rotation axis E---E as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. A main purpose of the rotation of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> around the second rotation axis E---E is to allow the medical practitioner to control the angle of the patient's wrist while in use by keeping the patient's forearm vertical and pulling traction to the hand at an angle from an elongated axis positioned through the patient's forearm (or vertically), as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure. In order to be able to rotate the arm assembly around the second rotation axis E---E, a button <NUM>-<NUM> can be pushed (force exerted against the button <NUM>-<NUM> opposite the spring bias force) to overcome a bias force exerted by a spring (not shown) up against the button housing <NUM>-<NUM> in the direction of the button <NUM>-<NUM> downward to remove a locking tooth <NUM>-<NUM> from being positioned between two respective slots/teeth of the slotted base end <NUM>. When a desired position of the arm assembly is reached, the force exerted against the button <NUM>-<NUM> by the user can be removed and the arm assembly can be locked into the desired position via the described interlocking mechanism (bias force exerted by the spring pushes the locking tooth <NUM>-<NUM> between another two slots/teeth of the slotted base end <NUM>).

Turning to <FIG> and <FIG>, perspective view schematic representations showing the rotation range of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> (and, thus, the arm assembly) of the traction tower <NUM> about rotation axis E---E. The rotation F of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> about the rotation axis E---E can be incremental and locked/unlocked via a slotted/tooth embodiment, as shown and described with respect to <FIG>), can be non-incremental when locked/unlocked via frictional engagement, or can be locked/unlocked via other known lock/unlock mechanisms (as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure). An example of the rotation range for wrist angle control is shown by shadow (transparent) arm assembly structures <NUM> positioned around the starting or zero position shown by a solid arm assembly structure <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view schematic representation of the traction tower <NUM> with the lever <NUM> and ridges <NUM>-<NUM> engagement structure and resulting functionality is shown in a partial transparent view, according to an embodiment. In brief, the height adjustment mechanism is formed between the upper arm <NUM> and the lower arm <NUM>. This interface between the upper arm <NUM> and lower arm <NUM> allows for another adjustment point to be responsive to a wide variety of individual patient arm sizes. The illustrated adjustment mechanism in <FIG> includes a ratchet mechanism for quick height adjustment via actuation of lever <NUM> to position end <NUM>-<NUM> within a selected/particular notch formed in the upper arm <NUM> at <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a traction tower scale <NUM>, according to an embodiment. Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view photographic representation of the traction tower <NUM> is shown with the traction tower scale <NUM>. The traction tower <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, a tubular body <NUM> attached to the distal end of the upper end <NUM>-<NUM> of the upper arm <NUM> (via welding, screw, nut and bolt or other known attachment means as should be understood by a person of skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure) of the traction tower <NUM>. The body <NUM> is configured to contain a knob <NUM> followed by and attached to a spring (not shown) positioned through the top portion of the body <NUM>. Attached to the bottom end of the spring is a rod/screw <NUM>, which is partially positioned within the body <NUM> and a portion of which protrudes outside the bottom end of the body <NUM>. The bottom end of the rod/screw <NUM> includes a hole that receives a clip <NUM> therethrough. The other end of the clip <NUM> is attached to a hole formed in or on a rack <NUM>. The rack is shown with two finger traps <NUM> (but can include one or more than two) attached thereto for securing a patient's fingers and applying traction.

Turning to <FIG>, perspective view schematic representations of the traction tower scale <NUM> are shown, according to an embodiment. The rack <NUM> (to which the finger traps <NUM> are attached) is directly linked to the knob <NUM> through the rod/screw <NUM> (which can be any type of connection element that can perform the function of the rod/screw <NUM> described herein, and does not need to be a rod or a screw). In an "at rest" pre-use state (not attached to a patient's fingers, or at least not receiving force from a patient's fingers), the knob <NUM> is biased in the upward direction (see arrow A) by the spring located in the body (which can be any type of spring including a coil spring with a known biasing force, as should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art in conjunction with a review of this disclosure). As a force is applied to the spring in the downward direction (see arrow B) by the weight of a patient's hand/arm (from the finger traps, to the rod/screw <NUM>, to the spring and to the knob <NUM>), the knob <NUM> (including its stem) will be pulled in the downward direction further into the body <NUM> of the scale. The stem of the knob <NUM> can include a visual indicator (e.g., a line or other mark), that can be used to indicate an estimated amount of traction being used. This can be done by viewing where the visual indicator is in the viewing window <NUM>-<NUM>, and that location can be matched up with grooves indicating a traction amount number <NUM>-<NUM>. The unit of measure for traction is pounds. However, a preferred embodiment uses the traction amount number as a relative reference traction number (e.g., relative traction amount applied to a patients arm/wrist), and not as a specific measurement device.

<FIG> collectively illustrate a traction tower <NUM>', according to an alternative embodiment. This alternative embodiment of the traction tower <NUM>' is similar in many respects to traction tower <NUM> (including structurally and functionally), described above with respect to <FIG>. As such, the following descriptions of the elements/components of the traction tower <NUM>' are mostly limited to the alternative/different aspects (such as upper tower <NUM>' and rotation joint <NUM>'). If a structural element(s) and its resulting (singular or collective) functionality is not discussed but was illustrated and/or discussed above, the structure and associated functionality is the same as what was discussed above with respect to <FIG> and applies in this section (similarly, the discussion with respect to the traction tower scale <NUM> provided in <FIG> applies equally below with respect to the traction tower <NUM> shown as part of the traction tower <NUM>').

Turning to <FIG>, an exploded perspective view schematic representation of a traction tower <NUM>' according to an alternative embodiment is shown. <FIG> is similar to <FIG>, except for the addition of the traction tower <NUM> (described with respect to <FIG>) and the alternative embodiment of the upper tower <NUM>' and the rotation joint <NUM>'. <FIG> and <FIG> are assembled perspective view schematic representations of the traction tower <NUM>' shown in <FIG>, according to an alternative embodiment, and are similar to <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively.

<FIG> is a close up partially sectioned perspective view of a lower portion of the traction tower <NUM>', according to an alternative embodiment. As previously discussed with respect to <FIG>, the upper tower <NUM>' includes an alignment peg <NUM>-<NUM>, which is configured to fit into a corresponding elongated hole/slot <NUM>-<NUM> in the lower tower <NUM>. Alignment peg <NUM>-<NUM> helps a user easily position the upper tower <NUM>' onto the lower tower <NUM> before installing the tower locking knob <NUM>. It also makes sure that the upper tower <NUM>' stays vertical if/when a user is adjusting the height of the upper tower <NUM>', because there are two pins/stems in the slot <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower tower (the pin <NUM>-<NUM> from the upper tower <NUM>' and the threaded rod/stem <NUM>-<NUM> from the tower locking knob <NUM>). This way, if the height of the upper tower <NUM>' is adjusted after the full tower is assembled, there is no risk of the whole upper portion (arm assembly) of the tower <NUM>' rotating and swinging down when the tower locking knob <NUM> is loosened. In this embodiment, height adjustment can be done with the tower locking knob <NUM> loosened, not removed entirely from the lower tower/upper tower.

Turning to <FIG>, a close up transparent perspective view and a solid view, respectively, of a lower portion of the traction tower <NUM>' is shown, according to an alternative embodiment. The lower tower <NUM> includes a sliding button <NUM>-<NUM>, which is attached to locking peg <NUM>-<NUM>. Spring <NUM>-<NUM> biases sliding button <NUM>-<NUM> and peg <NUM>-<NUM> in the downward direction, which can be overcome by a user sliding button <NUM>-<NUM> up moving peg <NUM>-<NUM> within the body of lower tower <NUM>. The purpose of peg <NUM>-<NUM> and attachment means <NUM> (here a key locking feature) is to lock the lower tower <NUM> into the base plate <NUM> when it is installed and to make sure it doesn't move until the tower <NUM>' is ready to be disassembled. It also allows the user to quickly assemble and passively lock it in place when assembling the tower <NUM>' (since peg <NUM>-<NUM> is spring biased to the downward position, the slider button <NUM>-<NUM> does not have to be actuated when assembling - lower tower <NUM> can just be pushed flush to the base <NUM> and twisted causing peg <NUM>-<NUM> to fall into base hole <NUM> when it is at the right rotation position). The key locking feature <NUM> is placed onto base keyhole <NUM>-<NUM> at the same time to assist with the locking of the lower tower <NUM> to the base <NUM> after the twisting motion.

Turning to <FIG>, a close up partially sectioned perspective view of a lower portion of the traction tower <NUM>' is shown, according to an alternative embodiment. A slider button <NUM>-<NUM> is shown connected to a locking peg <NUM>-<NUM>, which is biased up via spring <NUM>-<NUM> into a hole <NUM>-<NUM> formed into the body of rotation joint <NUM>. To release and freely rotate rotation joint around rotation axis A1, a user can push slider button <NUM>-<NUM> in the downward direction to remove the locking peg from the hole <NUM>-<NUM> until the desired rotation position is reached. Then the button can be released, and the spring <NUM>-<NUM> can move the locking peg <NUM>-<NUM> into another hole <NUM>-<NUM> (see <FIG>).

Turning to <FIG> and <FIG>, close up perspective view schematic representations of a lower portion of the traction tower <NUM>' shown in <FIG> are provided, according to an alternative embodiment. <FIG> and <FIG> are similar to <FIG>, except for the structural differences noted with respect to the discussion herein and above regarding rotation joint <NUM>' and upper tower <NUM>'. However, the same movement of upper tower <NUM> with respect to lower tower <NUM> to accommodate a variety of individual patent forearm sizes, and the structural features that allow for such movement, are present in upper tower <NUM>'. <FIG> shows the upper tower <NUM>' in its relatively lowest position with respect to lower tower <NUM>, and <FIG> shows the upper tower <NUM>' in its relatively highest position with respect to the lower tower <NUM>. The apertures shown other than aperture <NUM> show where metal has been removed for weight reduction and heat management purposes.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view schematic representation of the traction tower <NUM>' shown in <FIG> is provided, according to an alternative embodiment. Similar to <FIG>, <FIG> shows the rotation axis A1 created by angling the rotation joint <NUM>' positioned on and its stem <NUM> positioned within upper tower <NUM>'.

Turning to <FIG> and <FIG>, perspective and top view schematic representations showing the rotation range of rotation joint <NUM> (and, thus, the arm assembly) of the traction tower <NUM>' about rotation axis A1 are provided. <FIG> and <FIG> are similar to <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively.

Referring to <FIG>, a close up partially sectioned perspective view of a lower portion of the traction tower <NUM>' is shown, according to an embodiment. <FIG> is similar to <FIG>, and the elements function in a similar manner even though there are some structural differences with respect to rotation joint <NUM>' and upper tower <NUM>', discussed above.

Referring to <FIG>, a perspective view schematic representation showing the rotation range of the elongated lower end <NUM>-<NUM> of the lower arm <NUM> (and, thus, the arm assembly) of the traction tower <NUM> about rotation axis E---E. <FIG> is similar to <FIG> and <FIG>.

Turning to <FIG>, a perspective view schematic representation of the traction tower <NUM>' is shown with a height adjustment mechanism including the lever <NUM> and ridges <NUM>-<NUM> engagement structure and resulting functionality in a partial transparent view, according to an alternative embodiment. <FIG> is similar to <FIG>.

Turning to <FIG>, a perspective view photographic representation of the traction tower <NUM>' is shown, according to an alternative embodiment. <FIG> shows the placement of a patient's arm with respect to the traction tower assembly <NUM>'.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, there are shown top views photographic representations of a strap <NUM>, according to two embodiments. The strap <NUM> is designed for a quick connection to the traction tower <NUM> and easy adjustment of strap <NUM> length to accommodate various patient sizes. While the strap <NUM> can be used to secure the patient's arm at any location, the embodiment of the strap <NUM> in <FIG> is preferably placed around the patient's bicep. The strap <NUM> in <FIG> comprises a length of material <NUM> for wrapping around the patient's arm (e.g., bicep). The length of material <NUM> can be composed of any non-flexible material, such as polyester, for example. The length of material <NUM> must be inflexible so as to prevent stretching and loosening around the patient's arm. The length of material <NUM> should also be composed of a material that is non-irritating to the skin while having enough friction to permit the length of material <NUM> to lock when in use and glide along itself when released.

Still referring to <FIG>, the length of material <NUM> comprises a pad <NUM> for the comfort and safety of the patient. The pad <NUM> is attached to at least a portion of the length of material <NUM>. In the embodiment in <FIG>, the pad <NUM> has a width that is substantially similar to the width of the length of material <NUM> such that the pad <NUM> does not extend beyond the bounds of the length of material <NUM>. In <FIG>, the pad <NUM> is attached to the length of material <NUM> with adhesive or with connectors, such as hook and loop connectors, to allow for easy replacement of the pad <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pad <NUM> extends around at least a portion of the length of material <NUM>. The strap <NUM> in <FIG> is preferably a bicep strap which is used to hold the patient's biceps to the base plate <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM> (hereinafter, the base plate, traction tower, and components thereof can be of any aforementioned embodiment). In <FIG>, the pad <NUM> is cylindrical or tubular. In one embodiment, the pad <NUM> is a <NUM>-cm-wide (<NUM>-inch-wide) webbing with a foam pad to distribute the force to the patient's bicep. The pad <NUM> can either be fixed around the length of material <NUM> or it can be detachable (e.g., via a seam along the length of the pad <NUM> attachable with adhesive or connectors). The cylindrical or tubular pad <NUM> extending around at least a portion of the length of material <NUM> allows the pad <NUM> to move or roll slightly along the arm of the patient. The ability of the pad <NUM> to move or roll allows for movement of the patient's arm while maintaining the comfort of the pad <NUM>.

Referring to both <FIG> and <FIG>, the length of material <NUM> comprises one or more adjustment mechanisms <NUM>. The purpose of the adjustment mechanism <NUM> is to tighten the strap <NUM> (i.e., adjust the length of the strap <NUM>) and secure arms of various sizes onto the base plate <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the adjustment mechanism <NUM> is a buckle. Specifically, the length of material <NUM> in <FIG> has two buckles <NUM>, one on each side of the pad <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the length of material <NUM> is shown woven through the buckles <NUM> and the buckles <NUM> are substantially equidistant from the pad <NUM>. Further, as shown in <FIG>, a first end <NUM> of the length of material <NUM> extends from a first buckle <NUM> toward the pad <NUM> and a second end <NUM> of the length of material <NUM> extends from a second buckle <NUM> toward the pad <NUM>. In use, an opening <NUM> with a first diameter is created between the base plate <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM> and the length of material <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. To secure the patient's forearm to the traction tower, the patient's arm is inserted through the opening <NUM>. The opening <NUM> is then reduced to a second diameter by tensioning the first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the length of material <NUM> through the buckles <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the first and second buckles <NUM> slide into slots <NUM>, <NUM> of the base plate <NUM> and are able to move towards a center <NUM> of the base plate <NUM> to adapt for the patient's arm size. In the depicted embodiment, the slots <NUM>, <NUM> are on opposing sides of the base plate <NUM>. In <FIG>, the slots <NUM>, <NUM> are aligned such that the central axes of the slots <NUM>, <NUM> are the same. The benefit of this connection is that the sliding of the buckles <NUM> within the base plate <NUM> functions as an additional adjustment mechanism. In particular, when the buckles <NUM> of the strap <NUM> are moved closer to the patient's bicep, the length of the strap <NUM> can be tensioned further, minimizing the opening <NUM> and making the strap <NUM> more effective at restricting movement. When the strap <NUM> is a bicep strap, it is meant to restrict vertical movement of the biceps due to the traction applied to the wrist as well as the side-to-side movements caused when the surgeon applies forces to the wrist during the procedure. The straps <NUM> in <FIG> are forearm straps, which are very similar to the biceps strap <NUM> in <FIG>. In an embodiment, forearm straps <NUM> (<FIG>) comprise a <NUM>-cm-wide (<NUM>-inch-wide) webbing to hold the patient's forearm and two plastic buckles <NUM> which allow it to connect with the upper tower component <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM> and adjustment of the length of the strap <NUM>.

One major benefit of this forearm strap <NUM> shown in <FIG> is that it connects to the upper tower component <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM>. Since the upper tower <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM> can be positioned higher or lower based upon the patient's anatomy, the forearm strap <NUM> will always be positioned close to the patient's wrist. The closer the strap <NUM> is to the side forces being applied by the surgeon during the procedure, the more effective it will be at preventing side to side movement of the wrist.

Referring to <FIG>, there are shown front, side, and back views schematic representations of the buckle <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The buckles <NUM> shown in <FIG> are easily adjustable and have high locking strength. In the side view shown in <FIG>, the buckle <NUM> has a rounded profile. In other words, the top surface <NUM> (<FIG>) and the bottom surface <NUM> (<FIG>) of the buckle <NUM> are curved such that the buckle <NUM> lays comfortably against the patient's arm and adapts well to arms of different sizes.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the buckle <NUM> has a rounded top portion <NUM> connected to a rectangular adjustability section <NUM>. The adjustability section <NUM> is connected to a substantially rectangular base portion <NUM> with one or more connectors <NUM> extending therefrom. The side view of the buckle <NUM> shows that the side profile of the buckle <NUM> is rounded from the top portion <NUM> to the base portion <NUM>. In <FIG>, the bottom surface <NUM> of the buckle <NUM> has a ridge <NUM> extending around the perimeter of the top portion <NUM>. The ridge <NUM> is designed to function as an ergonomic thumb ridge to allow for an increased grip on the buckle <NUM> by the user for ease in releasing the strap <NUM> around the patient's arm. The increased grip is especially beneficial when the user is manipulating the strap <NUM> with wet gloves.

As shown in <FIG>, the bottom surface <NUM> of the buckle <NUM> has one or more flanges <NUM> extending from the base portion <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, there are two substantially parallel flanges <NUM> extending from the base portion <NUM>. The flanges <NUM> are triangular, as shown in the side profile of the buckle <NUM> in <FIG>. The flanges <NUM> guide the buckle <NUM> when the user slides the buckle <NUM> into the base plate <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM>. The flanges <NUM> add rigidity to the base portion <NUM> where the buckle <NUM> experiences most of the force.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the adjustability section <NUM> of the buckle <NUM> includes teeth <NUM>. The teeth <NUM> extend across the adjustability section <NUM> to increase strength of the buckle <NUM> when tightened. The teeth <NUM> provide increased grip on the length of material <NUM> and resist slippage when tightened.

Turning back to <FIG>, the overall profile of the buckle <NUM> is thin. This allows the buckle <NUM> to encompass the bottom of the bicep as well. The buckle <NUM> has an interference angle extending along an outer edge <NUM> of the prong <NUM> extending across the adjustability section <NUM>. The interference angle in the buckle <NUM> of <FIG> is steep, within the range of <NUM> - <NUM> degrees. The steep interference angle provides high friction between the length of material <NUM> while in use and an easy release when the first or second end <NUM>, <NUM> of the length of material <NUM> is pulled down away from the patient's arm.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, there are shown front and perspective views schematic representations of a forearm buckle mount <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The forearm buckle mount <NUM> attached to the buckle <NUM> and is used to secure a patient's forearm to the traction tower <NUM>. The forearm buckle mount <NUM> comprises a rectangular columned section <NUM> with one or more columns <NUM> extending thereacross. In the depicted embodiment, the columned section <NUM> has at least two spaced columns <NUM> extending thereacross. The forearm buckle mount <NUM> includes an outer flange <NUM> connected to the columned section <NUM>. The outer flange <NUM> includes a slot <NUM>. The slot <NUM> extends along an axis that is perpendicular to axes extending through each column <NUM>. The slot <NUM> is asymmetrical to only allow the correct insertion orientation while preventing incorrect insertion orientation. The forearm buckle mount <NUM> encourages free, low friction rotation of the length of material <NUM>. On a side of the forearm buckle mount <NUM> opposing the outer flange <NUM>, the forearm buckle mount <NUM> includes a buckle interface <NUM> for rotatably attaching to the connectors <NUM> of the buckle <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, the buckle <NUM> and the forearm buckle mount <NUM> are shown attached to the traction tower <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the outer flange <NUM> of the forearm buckle mount <NUM> extends from a first side <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM> and the buckle interface <NUM> of the forearm buckle mount <NUM> extends from an opposing second side <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM>. As shown in the top view in <FIG>, the buckle <NUM> is rotatable about the buckle interface <NUM> of the forearm buckle mount <NUM> relative to the second side <NUM> of the traction tower <NUM>. The buckle interface <NUM> has an audible snap and haptic feedback to indicate that the connectors <NUM> of the buckle <NUM> have been attached to the forearm buckle mount <NUM>. <FIG> shows the traction tower <NUM> with the strap <NUM> attached. The buckle <NUM> stays in place within the buckle interface <NUM> while in use and easily snaps out when the user is done using the buckle <NUM>. The same buckles <NUM> are used as the bicep strap <NUM> with full rotation availability.

Turning now to <FIG>, there is shown a top view schematic representation of a finger trap <NUM>, according to an embodiment. The finger trap <NUM> has a length of flexible material <NUM> with a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. In an embodiment, the length of flexible material <NUM> is composed of mesh or braided material. For example, the length of flexible material <NUM> can be a double-layered mesh material. The length of flexible material <NUM> is closed at the first end <NUM> and open at the second end <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the length of flexible material <NUM> is tapered or funneled with a reduced diameter at the first end <NUM> and an increasing diameter toward the second end <NUM>. The length of flexible material <NUM> is tubular and rounded with an inner volume <NUM> for ease of finger insertion. In an embodiment, the length of flexible material <NUM> is approximately <NUM> (six inches) in length to accommodate various sizes of fingers.

Still referring to <FIG>, a fastener <NUM> is attached at or near the second end <NUM> of the finger trap <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the fastener <NUM> is a hook and loop fastener <NUM>. The fastener <NUM> is woven through the length of flexible material <NUM> at at least one location. Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the fastener <NUM> extends through the length of flexible material <NUM> into the inner volume <NUM> and back out through the length of flexible material <NUM>. The fastener <NUM> is used to adjust the diameter of the inner volume <NUM> of the length of flexible material <NUM> at or near the second end <NUM>. This allows for the quick and easy adjustment of the finger trap <NUM>. With the fastener <NUM> locked, the fastener <NUM> resists shear forces from the finger of the patient being pulled out.

As also shown in <FIG>, the finger trap <NUM> includes a tension mechanism <NUM> extending therefrom. The tension mechanism to increase or decrease tension on the finger trap <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the tension mechanism <NUM> is a crimp ball chain. The crimp ball chain comprises a collar <NUM> extending around the length of flexible material <NUM> at or near the first end <NUM>. The collar <NUM> has a ball chain <NUM> extending therefrom. The ball chain <NUM> is a chain composed of a series of spaced beads <NUM>. The ball chain <NUM> terminates in a hook <NUM> for attachment to the traction tower <NUM>. The traction tower <NUM> tensions to the hook <NUM> and the user can increase and decrease tension by replacing the ball chain <NUM> in the rack <NUM> at the desired tension.

Turning now to <FIG> there is shown a perspective view photographic representation of a finger trap <NUM> attached to the traction tower <NUM>, according to an embodiment. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the finger trap <NUM> feature a releasable cable tie <NUM> which allows the surgeon to tighten and loosen the finger trap <NUM> on patients finger. The finger trap <NUM> incorporated the adjustable cable tie <NUM> to make these finger trap a one-size fits all. Instead of relying on the length of flexible material <NUM> to be closely sized to the patient's finger, requiring several different finger trap sizes, the cable tie <NUM> can be tightened to initiate the length of flexible material <NUM> holding the finger.

Another advantage of the finger trap <NUM> shown in <FIG> is that the cable tie <NUM> can be released (non-destructively) if the finger trap <NUM> needs to be removed and placed onto another finger or the thumb. Traditionally, a finger trap that functions on the patient's index finger or ring finger is not likely to work on the thumb or pinky finger. This could lead to scenarios wherein surgeons will have to use oversized finger traps to ensure they at least fit on all the fingers of the patient. This requires that the surgeons compensate for the large size by taping over of the finger traps on the smaller fingers to try to secure them. Additionally, the surgeon has to adjust the traction settings from the traction tower <NUM> more frequently because the finger traps would slip (due to oversize), resulting in a loss of traction.

An additional benefit to the configuration of the finger traps <NUM> shown in <FIG> is that the adjustable cable ties <NUM> never directly contact the patient's fingers. The cable ties <NUM> only pierce through a single layer of the length of flexible material <NUM> (e.g., doubled over braided hose). This ensures that the length of flexible material <NUM> engages with the entire circumference of the finger so that when traction is applied, the length of flexible material <NUM> performs the function of dispersing the traction force over the entire finger instead of just where the cable tie <NUM> is tightened.

It should be understood that the values used above are only representative values, and other values may be in keeping with the intention of this disclosure.

While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein with reference to certain exemplary embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein (and it will be understood by one skilled in the art that various changes in detail may be effected therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by claims that can be supported by the written description and drawings). More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto; inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Further, where exemplary embodiments are described with reference to a certain number of elements it will be understood that the exemplary embodiments can be practiced utilizing either less than or more than the certain number of elements.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The term "connected" is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if not directly attached to where there is something intervening.

Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as "about" and "substantially", are not to be limited to the precise value specified. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged; such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

The recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not impose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed.

Only the transitional phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures, Section <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A traction tower assembly (<NUM>'), comprising:
a tower assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising a tower (<NUM>) connected to a base plate (<NUM>) with a first slot (<NUM>) and a second slot (<NUM>) extending partially therethrough; and
a strap (<NUM>) comprising a length of material (<NUM>) attached to a first adjustment mechanism (<NUM>) and a second adjustment mechanism (<NUM>) to tighten the strap (<NUM>),
characterized in that the first adjustment mechanism (<NUM>) is slidable within the first slot (<NUM>) of the base plate (<NUM>) and the second adjustment mechanism (<NUM>) is slidable within the second slot (<NUM>) of the base plate (<NUM>) so that the first and second adjustment mechanisms (<NUM>) are movable towards a center (<NUM>) of the base plate (<NUM>).