Design solutions from material selection for rib fixators

The problems for fixing rib fractures are usually challenged with different rib fixators whose design strongly depends of the material selected for construction. Main issues refer to rib surgery implantation and tissue acceptance for a duration longer than the osteosynthesis. In this paper we discuss how a material selection can strongly suggest different design solutions both in shape of a rib fixator and even constraining or directing the surgical application with an invasive or noninvasive implantation. In particular, in discussing the general issues and specific experiences of the authors the paper illustrates examples of two different solutions under patent request that are dictated by the material whose selection give the design solutions with innovative aspects.