Abstract: An implant for the trapezium of the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint comprising an integral elastomeric member configured to include a body portion having a tapered neck, having extending from one end thereof an elongated, longitudinally extending tapered portion adapted to be embedded into a reamed out-channel in the thumb metacarpal bone. After implantation, in the preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, a segment of a nearby tendon, for example, the APL or FCR tendons, may be wrapped around the tapered neck of the implant to secure it in position, thereby forming a reinforced structure to inhibit dislocation of the prosthesis. However, in other methods, various other securing elements, including, but not limited to acellular matrices, may be used to retain the implant in position.

Abstract: A radiolucent orthopedic chuck includes a housing having a driver stem protruding from the top surface and a drill bit protruding from the underside in radially spaced relation from the driver stem so as to displace a drill secured to the driver stem from the axis of the drill bit so that fluoroscopy may be used to ensure accurate alignment of the drill bit with a hole of an intramedullary nail both prior to and during its operation. A drive train interconnects the driver stem and drill bit for rotation in unison. All parts of the chuck but for the drill bit preferably radiolucent.