Abstract: This invention relates to a method of using a half-drill for drilling holes in living bone for orthopaedic operations. The invention also relates to a method of using a half-drill tip on skeletal bone pin for drilling holes in living bone and subsequently using that skeletal pin with external immobilization devices or alone in circumstances where a Steinmann Pin or large Kirschner wire might commonly be selected.

Abstract: An apparatus for the correction of scoliotic curvature of the spinal column. A Harrington distraction rod engages a concave side of the curvature of the spinal column and a Harrington compression rod engages a convex side of the curvature of the spinal column. A tensioning device engages the Harrington distraction rod and the Harrington compression rod so that the rods may be drawn toward each other or otherwise held in position with respect to each other. The tensioning device is comprised of a transverse threaded rod having a basket hook at an end thereof. The threaded rod engages the basket hook via a swivel connection which allows the transverse rod to rotate about its longitudinal axis within the basket hook. The other end of the threaded rod has a knurled end to facilitate handling.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is a means of fastening flexible elastic tubing, such as silicone rubber, to a rigid connector. The invention allows for a liquid and gas tight, secure connection without the use of any bonding materials between the tube and the connector and without any external ribbing, threading, texturing, barbing, etc. of any kind on the connector and without any external clamping mechanism used to keep the tubing firmly attached to the rigid connector.The invention allows for the rigid connector portion of a component, such as a wound drainage surgical needle, to have a very smooth cylindrical surface. The use of a smooth surface with no other adhering mechanism to assist in making a secure connection that will not easily pull off is contrary to what is taught in the art.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a storage container for pre-sterilized surgical implements. The container is comprised of a bottom assembly containing at least one cavity for receiving a surgical implement such as a drill bit, pin or wire and a lid portion which is heat sealed onto the bottom assembly such that it acts as a sterile barrier in containing the product.The invention utilizes a plurality of areas spaced apart longitudinally in the cavity for selectively placing protective plugs at each end of the implement such that one packaging cavity may be used for various lengths of implements. The protective plugs prevent the implement from penetrating the ends of the cavity which would break the sterile barrier.

Abstract: A device for plugging the medullary canal in joint replacement surgery which prevents the cement used for fixation from extending beyond that point where it is useful and which also creates a closed space to facilitate more complete cement filling of the femoral canal or other boney cavities is disclosed. The device is comprised of a tapered cylindrical plug which is threadedly engaged to a long flexible shaft capable of being inserted into the medullary canal. The shaft is disengaged from the plug after the plug is lodged at the appropriate place in the canal. The plug is made of a bio-compatible material.

Abstract: The prosthesis disclosed is an unrestrained or hingeless elbow prosthesis including a humeral implant component and an ulnar implant component. The metal humeral component is comprised of an elongated stem with a substantially cylindrical articulating surface on the distal end of said stem wherein said cylindrical articulating surface is convex such that the diameters of the end surfaces of the cylindrical shape are smaller than the diameter about the midportion of the cylindrical shape. The ulnar component is comprised of a metal retainer and a polyethylene bearing. The metal retainer includes an elongated stem attached to a metal base such that the stem depends from the base and anatomically curves slightly outward or laterally from the base.The polyethylene bearing is slidably engaged to the metal retainer and locks into position on the retainer. The polyethylene bearing contains a concave cylindrical cavity for receiving the convex cylinder of the humeral component.