BONE PLATE WITH INSERT(S) FOR OPTIMALLY DIRECTING FASTENERS

摘要

An apparatus is provided for fusing bones of the human body. The apparatus comprises a bone plate 104 which generally is a member having one or more fixation apertures 136, configured to receive fasteners, and an insert aperture 124. The bone plate comprises a semirigid material, such as a biocompatible metal or Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), possessing a tensile strength suitable for immobilizing bones. A convertible insert is configured to be retained within the insert aperture. The convertible insert 108 is configured to optimally direct a fastener towards a chosen point of purchase for fixating or compressing bones. In some embodiments, the insert is configured to direct a fastener at an oblique angle relative to a plane of the fusion plate. In some embodiments, the insert is configured to direct a fastener at a substantially right angle relative to the fusion plate.