Self-locking osteosynthesis device

Abstract

The self-locking osteosynthesis device includes a plate equipped with holes for the passage of fixation screws. The invention is characterised in that, at least in the areas defining the screw holes, the aforementioned plate is made from a material having mechanical properties such that the periphery of the holes can be self-tapped by means of tapping screws which can be used to fix the plate.

1 . Self-locking osteosynthesis device comprising: 
 a plate with holes for passage of fixation screws, said plate being comprised of a composite plate that contains holes having peripheries comprised of inserts comprised of a plastic biocompatible material having mechanical properties allowing a self-locking of the periphery of the holes by tapping screws used for fixation of the plate, the inserts being inserted into the holes provided in a remaining part of the plate comprised of metal.    
   
   
       2 . Device according to  claim 1 , wherein the peripheries of the holes are comprised of inserts comprised of a high-performance thermoplastic polymer.  
   
   
       3 . Device according to  claim 2 , wherein the peripheries of the holes are comprised of inserts comprised of polyether ether ketone (PEEK).  
   
   
       4 . Device according to  claim 1 , wherein the passage holes of the fixation screws have a conical shape.  
   
   
       5 . Device according to  claim 1 , wherein the remaining part of the plate or base plate is comprised of titanium.  
   
   
       6 . Device according to  claim 1 , wherein the inserts comprising the periphery of the holes are integrated in the remaining part of the plate or base plate by molding from a casting.  
   
   
       7 . Device according to  claim 1 , wherein the inserts comprising the periphery of the holes are integrated in the remaining part of the plate or base plate by a mechanical assembly.  
   
   
       8 . Device according to  claim 1 , further comprising: 
 tapping screws being comprised of a proximal part or head equipped with a conical threading tapping mechanism having a diameter that increases in the direction of the proximal end of the screws.    
   
   
       9 . Device according to  claim 1 , further comprising: 
 a mechanism that prevents the rotation of the inserts engaged in the holes of the plate.