Abstract: Orthopedic implant insertion instruments for precision guiding of a fracture fixation implant into fractured bone to promote healing are disclosed. The implant insertion instruments comprise an insertion handle for implantation of a first fixation implant, an aiming arm for precise guiding of a second fixation implant into bone, a guide sleeve for protection of soft tissue and for translational and rotational control of the second fixation implant, and a drive shaft with coupling screw for attachment to the second fixation implant and for driving the second fixation element through the aiming arm and guide sleeve into the fractured bone. The implant insertion instruments also include a soft tissue clearance device to aid the surgeon in inserting the first fixation implant into the fractured bone. Also disclosed is a measuring device that reduces measuring errors made by a user and a measuring device that determines implant length, diameter, and angle of insertion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an orthopaedic implant, such as a bone plate, for the fixation of bone where the implant also has at least one microchip and at least one sensor connected to the microchip. The sensor or sensors are configured to receive physical stimulus from a portion of the implant or the patient's tissue such as temperature, pressure, and strain. The information received from the sensor or sensors is gathered by the microchip and transmitted to a receiver, such as a personal computer, outside the patient. This information enables doctors to diagnose the useful life of the implant, the load sharing of the bone plate, and possible complications typically associated with orthopaedic implants such as infection, fracture non-union, and fatigue. The implant may also have one or more electrodes located on its surface which emit an electric current to stimulate healing of the broken or fractured bone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a plug-type connection for releasably connecting two bodies wherein the first body includes a first connection zone having a plurality of coaxially aligned first connection segments and the second body includes a plurality of coaxially aligned second connection segments. The first connection segment includes at least one segment with a non-circular cross-section and at least one segment having an axially tapering cross-section. The second connection segment includes at least one segment with a non-circular cross section sized and configured for rotatively engaging the non-circular cross section of the first connection segment and at least one segment sized and configured to mate with the at least one tapering section, wherein the tapered section of the first connection segment and the mating section of the second connection segment form an axially non-positive engagement for guiding the first body into engagement with the second body.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for adjusting the magnification of a flexible mirror and a method of making the same. The device includes a flexible mirror having a reflective surface and a rear surface surrounded by a periphery. The device also includes a housing having a retainer member for retaining the mirror and a base member supported on the housing. The base member has an aperture therethrough and includes a plurality of angled guide members located about the periphery of the aperture. A retention member, which is connected to the rear surface of the mirror, includes a protrusion which is received in an aperture of an adjustment member and permits the adjustment member to rotate freely about the retention member. The adjustment member also includes a plurality of retainer members which are inserted into the aperture of the base member and engage the angled surfaces of the guide members.