How to


A New Era in Craniofacial Osteosynthesis.

Pins Insertion Video

Insert SonicPins Rx

Principal

The key to understanding the SonicWeld Rx process is to understand three main principals.

  1. The PDLLA Resorb-X material is thermoplastic – it can become more liquid with an increase in temperature. SonicWeld Rx uses this characteristic to insert the SonicPin Rx into a porous bony structure. This is very unique and replaces screw-thread interface that is weaker, more time consuming, and prone to stripping and mechanical breaking during torque insertion. SonicWeld Rx is not a screw, nor is it a tack!
  2. The SonicWelder Rx uses ultrasonic vibration to create this friction. The piezo motor is controlled through the cable to the unit, which determines ideal vibration for the SonicPin Rx in the medium it is inserted into.
  3. You provide pressure that connects the SonicPin Rx to the “Sonotrode” tip of the handpiece. This connection is always present as long as you push forward. This is the key – to make the two parts as one single vibrating unit, traveling forward into the bone. The SonicWelder Rx needs your cooperation!

Steps

Prepare the pilot hole with the SonicWeld Rx twist drill. Do not substitute with any other drill. The diameter is specially prepared in multiple shapes to maximize the ‘flow’ of polymer.

Load a SonicPin Rx onto the Sonotrode tip by simply pushing down on the pin head in the cartridge. It will stay on the sonotrode with friction fit. If you have trouble, remove the pin from the cartridge and manually load it.

  1. Insert the Tip, Establish & Keep Pressure

    Place the tip of the SonicPin Rx into the first millimeter of the hole you prepared. Establish slight forward pressure so that the SonicPin Rx and Sonotrode will be connected for the next step.
  2. Pressure then Pedal*

    While maintaining pressure forward straight into the hole, press the activation switch for the SonicWelder Rx and maintain pressure. The SonicPin Rx edges are in contact with the inner diameter of the bone. Friction causes the edges to liquify and the pin is forced into an ever smaller hole, driving liquefied polymer into the bony spaces. The process is very fast.
  3. Stop! But leave your hand in place.

    Remember to stop when the SonicPin Rx is visually identified as being in the location you want (typically at the bone level). Remove the pressure from the switch, but keep your hand in place, motionless, for several moments while the liquified polymer returns to solid. Your first experience is usually too soon or too late – but it is very simple to master with 2-3 pins.
  4. Rotate (spin) and Remove

    Rotate/Spin and withdraw the sonotrode from the SonicPin Rx. Do not rock the pin during this process (this is a normal habit from disengaging friction fit screws).

Most users are surprised at the speed of insertion and the unique process.

If you are unhappy with the position of the SonicPin Rx, simply drill through the material and repeat the process.

*The number one problem is failure to maintain pressure continuously. You must establish and maintain forward pressure before and during insertion without interruption. You can identify ‘user error’ by noticing the friction occurring ‘on top’ of your hole or pin head.

When practicing, have someone hold the bone block, as you place pressure, they will react and tell you if you ‘let up’ during the process. ‘Workshop’ SonicPins Rx are available from your KLS Martin representative.