Abstract: A method of repairing an articular cartilage defect with the partial joint resurfacing implant includes surgically creating an opening in the articular cartilage defect site. The method also includes obtaining a partial resurfacing implant which is implanted into the opening. The partial resurfacing implant includes a top articulating portion, an implant fixation portion, and a locking mechanism. The implant fixation portion including an upper segment coupled to the top articulating portion and a bone interfacing segment configured to facilitate insertion into the articular cartilage defect site. The method further includes the bone interfacing segment being inserted into the opening with the top articulating portion and adjacent articular cartilage being positioned to each other to facilitate motion and load transfer over the defect site. Another method of repairing an articular cartilage defect with a partial joint resurfacing implant and a partial joint resurfacing implant are also disclosed.

Abstract: A partial resurfacing implant for use in repairing an articular cartilage defect site that includes a top articulating portion having a top surface that is configured with at least one radius of curvature to approximate the surface contour of the articular cartilage surrounding the defect site. The implant also includes a supporting plate that has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface is attached to the top articulating portion by a locking mechanism. The bottom surface of the supporting plate is constructed to facilitate the insertion of the implant into the defect site. Extending from the bottom surface of the supporting plate is at least one implant fixation portion. The at least one implant fixation portion is integrally connected to and is oriented about normal relative to the bottom surface. A method of repairing an articular cartilage defect with the partial joint resurfacing implant is also disclosed.