Abstract: Disclosed are improved methods and apparatus for implantation and extraction of osteal prostheses. Ultrasonic energy coupling adapters are disclosed for propagating ultrasonic energy along an incidence axis which deviates from a longitudinal axis of the prosthesis within a predetermined angular range. Methods of implantation and extraction of osteal prostheses are also disclosed, in which ultrasonic energy is propagated along an axis which extends at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the prosthesis.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mechanical junction for facilitating the rapid attachment and removal of ultrasonic surgical components for the transfer of ultrasonic energy across the junction from an ultrasonic transducer to an ultrasonically activated tool bit. The junction achieves a high, evenly distributed compressive force to optimize propagation of the ultrasonic energy from the transducer to a tool bit, while maintaining a relatively small outside diameter of the ultrasonic tool.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mechanical junction for facilitating the rapid attachment and removal of ultrasonic surgical components for the transfer of ultrasonic energy across the junction from an ultrasonic transducer to an ultrasonically activated tool bit. The junction achieves a high, evenly distributed compressive force to optimize propagation of the ultrasonic energy from the transducer to a tool bit, while maintaining a relatively small outside diameter of the ultrasonic tool. Also disclosed are a plurality of ultrasonic energy activated tool tips for introducing and removing an orthopedic prosthesis.

Abstract: Apparatus particularly suited for implantation and/or extraction of osteal prostheses, comprising an ultrasonic power generator, regulator means for regulating the ultrasonic power generator in accordance with a predetermined algorithm, at least one transducer connected to the output line for converting said electrical energy to a linear mechanical motion, an acoustic transformer for increasing or decreasing peak-to-peak motion of the transducer and means for connecting the acoustic transformer to a surgical tool or a prosthetic device. The system suitably comprises a pair of transducers, one operating at each of 20 KHz and 40 KHz frequencies. Novel adapters for the four major types of osteal prosthesis are also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus particularly suited for implantation and/or extraction of osteal prostheses, comprising an ultrasonic power generator, regulator means for regulating the ultrasonic power generator in accordance with a predetermined algorithm, at least one transducer connected to the output line for converting said electrical energy to a linear mechanical motion, an acoustic transformer for increasing or decreasing peak-to-peak motion of the transducer and means for connecting the acoustic transformer to a surgical tool or a prosthetic device. The system suitably comprises a pair of transducers, one operating at each of 20 KHz and 40 KHz frequencies. Novel adapters for the four major types of osteal prosthesis are also provided.

Abstract: A hip joint prosthesis or the like may be removed from the bone for a revision by applying ultrasonic vibration sufficient to disrupt connection of the prosthesis with the bone. This is particularly desirable for disrupting cancellous bone at the interface adjacent to the porous surface of a prosthesis designed for ingrowth of cancellous bone. Preferably the ultrasonic vibrations are applied to the prosthesis with sufficient energy for disrupting cancellous bone at the porous surface interface or softening a cement employed for securing the prosthesis to the bone. An ultrasonically vibrated osteotome may be inserted along the porous surface of a prosthesis for disrupting cancellous bone adjacent to the interface. Preferably the ultrasonic transducer is coupled to the prosthesis by a self-holding taper on the prosthesis and a complementary tapered socket connected to an ultrasonic transducer. Ultrasonic vibrations may also be employed for forming a cavity into which a prosthesis is implanted.