Abstract: A pneumatically driven orthopedic broach inserter comprising a continuously reciprocating piston which strikes a proximal anvil during each cycle. The impact of the piston with the proximal anvil drives the broach out of a bone. To drive the broach into the bone, a surgeon pushes on the power broach inserter, bringing a distal anvil into the path of the piston, and creating a forward action which dominates over the on-going reverse action produced by the piston striking the proximal anvil. The piston is provided with a low-friction sleeve so that completely oilless operation is possible. A fast-acting chuck having a key and a wedge is provided whereby broaches of different size can be quickly attached to the power broach inserter.

Abstract: A prosthetic implant for use in replacing the ball end of a biological joint includes a cup member for insertion into the natural socket, an insert received in the cup member defining a ball receiving cavity with a stepped entry, and a split locking ring received in the stepped entry. A ball shaped portion of a prosthesis introduced into the entry will displace the locking ring inwardly to a larger stepped portion of the entry where the locking ring can expand to allow passage of the ball after which the ring contracts and slides over the ball to a locking position in a smaller stepped entry portion.