Abstract: An improved implant for use primarily within the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The implant includes an elliptical, concave, joint surface positioned on a stem and is designed to be placed into a prepared proximal face of the phalanx. The implant is sized according to the patient and may be provided in a number of standard incremental sizes. The improvements relate primarily to the structure, size, and position of the stem that extends into the phalanx to support the implant. The stem is off-set from a center axis of the elliptical joint surface. This off-center placement allows for a longer stem. Single deep indentations on each side of the stem facilitate retention within the bone. A size selection tool is provided to facilitate the selection and placement of an appropriately sized implant. The tool further provides a template for positioning and placing the stem in the phalanx.

Abstract: An expandable subtalar implant device suitable for addressing a flatfoot condition. The device is a sinus tarsi implant that blocks excessive motion between the talus and calcaneus bones in the foot while permitting normal motion and alignment. The device comprises a generally cylindrical metal structure having a first proximal expandable end and a second distal adjustment end. A first component of the implant forms each of the cylindrical end sections and a second component comprises a movable internal rod that serves to progressively expand the outer cylinder of the implant. The internal rod is externally threaded and mates with internal threading on the cylindrical outer component. Progressive turning of the internal rod engages a number of radially arranged inclined surfaces that form the interior walls of the cylindrical shell component.

Abstract: A surgical scalpel having multiple cutting segments designed especially for podiatric surgical procedures is disclosed. More particularly, the scalpel blade has a handle attachment section and a number of cutting segments. The blade includes a single-edged longitudinal cutting segment extending from the handle attachment section, a single-edged curved cutting segment contiguous with the longitudinal cutting segment, and a double-edged end tip cutting segment contiguous with the curved cutting segment. The double-edged end tip cutting segment may be designed in varying degrees of curvature, including semi-circular and semi-elliptical. Multiple cutting edges are contained on one scalpel blade for optimum flexibility, efficiency, and economy.