KLS Martin group L1 Rib Gebrauchsanweisung Seite 48

Possible risk of injury to the patient as a result of an incorrect surgical technique.
• The L1 Rib implants can break when subjected to the increased loading associated with delayed union
or nonunion. Internal fixation appliances are load-sharing devices that hold a fracture in alignment
until healing occurs. If healing is delayed or does not occur, the implant could eventually break due to
metal fatigue. Loads produced by weight bearing and activity levels will dictate the longevity of the
implant. Modifications or excessive contouring of implants may weaken the implant and contribute to
breakage. Notches or scratches put in the implant during the course of surgery may also contribute to
early breakage.
• The surgeon must ensure the fractured segments have bone to bone contact.
• Any bridging of a continuity defect must be combined with a bone graft.
Short surgical technique:
1. Approach
2. Expose the fractured rib
3. Ensure the rib has adequate thickness using depth gauge
4. Approximate the broken rib segments
5. Cut and contour the template (optional)
6. Select the plate and cut it if necessary
7. Contour the plate
8. Position the plate
9. Insert the screws (if the screws are inserted with a battery-powered screwdriver, make sure the screws
are tight and further secure them with a manual screwdriver).
10.Wound closure
More detailed information on the surgical technique can be found in the product brochure L1 Rib
91-350-06-xx.
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L1 Rib
Instructions for Use
Revi sion 01