Abstract: A method for producing a sliding surface element on the basis of UHMWPE for a joint endoprosthesis includes mixing UHMWPE in powder form with 0.09 to 0.11% by weight of an antioxidant, compacting the UHMWPE mixed with the antioxidant into a molded body, manufacturing one or more sliding surface elements from the molded body by material-removing machining, and irradiating the sliding surface element by gamma radiation or X-ray radiation with a radiation dose of 25 to 45 kGy in order to crosslink the UHMWPE. The method can be practiced without thermal post-treatment of the irradiated sliding surface element.

Abstract: A surgical connection device for connecting two rod elements in one or more relative orientation includes a main body with receiving openings. The rod elements can be fixed to the main body by fixing elements. At least one receiving opening has an aperture at a receiving opening edge, through which aperture a rod element can be inserted into the receiving opening transversely to the orientation of the receiving opening. A connection system includes a surgical connection device and two or more rod elements.

Abstract: A surgical connection device for connecting two rod elements in one or more relative orientation includes a main body with receiving openings. The rod elements can be fixed to the main body by fixing elements. At least one receiving opening has an aperture at a receiving opening edge, through which aperture a rod element can be inserted into the receiving opening transversely to the orientation of the receiving opening. A connection system includes a surgical connection device and two or more rod elements.