Abstract: A bone implant assembly having an implant element whereof a stem portion is for insertion into a bone cavity, and wedge means for wedging between a proximal region of the cavity wall and the stem. The stem is tapered so that deeper insertion urges the wedge means against the wall. The wedge means may comprise lateral and medial wedges. Each may comprise a stem engaging portion with a low-friction surface, and an outer, wall engaging portion having a surface adapted for non-slip engagement, being a high friction surface and/or adapted for ingrowth of bone.

Abstract: A seal member for fitting over and sealing the opening of a cavity in a bone to allow pressurization of cement in the cavity has an aperture for sealingly receiving a cement delivery nozzle. The seal member may be a balloon seal, which may be inflatable and expandable, or a solid body of conformable material. In use, the seal member is urged against the opening, e.g. by force applied by the barrel of a cement delivery gun on an abutment means having an apertured pressure piece shaped to urge the seal member against the mouth of the opening.

Abstract: An implant 22, e.g. for locating a hip prosthesis, is placed in the medullary canal 18 of a bone 20 (e.g. the femur) and secured by pressurized cement 24. A push-fit plug 10 prevents cement penetrating down the canal. The plug can be biodegradable so that in time it dissolves away and does not modify the flexural rigidity of the cement/bone system and the risk of fractures occurring at the level of the plug is reduced. Additionally or alternatively, the outwardly facing end portion 16 of the plug may be generally conical so that the thickness of the cement increases gradually and the flexural rigidity likewise changes gradually.

Abstract: Surgical apparatus for locating a patient lying on his side to facilitate hip surgery by the so-called Southern approach comprises a first platform part to support the patient's lower hip, two posts upstanding from respectively opposite sides of this part to engage the patient about the rear and front of his pelvis, a second platform part extending from the first part to support the patient's lower leg, at least one further post upstanding from the second part, and a third platform part connected to the further post above the second part to support the patient's upper leg. Preferably the first posts are adjustable in mutually opening and closing manner, such posts are respectively shorter and longer, all posts are adjustable in height, and the third platform part is adjustably tilted.