Abstract: An intraoperative method is provided for the restoration of the bearing surface smoothness of an otherwise well-fixed and well-aligned femoral knee component. This method is an alternative, in appropriate circumstances, to total component replacement. Polishing and buffing techniques are disclosed which substantially reduce the depth and areal extent of scratches and abrasions resulting from metal to metal contact, particularly between a worn, metal-backed patellar component and a femoral component, as well as abrasions resulting from migration of debris that imbeds itself in plastic bearing surfaces prior to surgical reintervention, primarily in the distal condyle areas. Debris generated by the polishing process, along with saline solution, or the like, washes used to flush the debris are isolated from the surgical field by a specially designed draping system.

Abstract: A spinal positioning frame mounted atop an operating table for lateral, longitudinal and pivotal adjustment allows optimal patient positioning. A yoke mounted in a rectangular frame for reciprocal sliding movement is driven by a pneumatically controlled electric linear actuator which may be driven in an emergency by blowing into pneumatic control lines. A pair of spaced parallel flexible steel flex strips connect juxtaposed anterior and posterior fulcrum plates pivotally mounted adjacent opposite ends of the frame. A pair of patient support pads are adjustably secured by cooperating hook and loop pile fasteners to respective pad mounting plates. Slots in the pad mounting plates receive cam lock fasteners which adjustably secure the pad mounting plates to the flex strips. The actuator causes the flex strips and pads to bow convexly upwardly, while a meter indicates the degree of flex, allowing precise regulation of spinal curvature to afford maximum lumbar access.