Abstract: An implant for the trapezium of the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint comprising an integral elastomeric member configured to include a body portion having a tapered neck, having extending from one end thereof an elongated, longitudinally extending tapered portion adapted to be embedded into a reamed out-channel in the thumb metacarpal bone. After implantation, in the preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, a segment of a nearby tendon, for example, the APL or FCR tendons, may be wrapped around the tapered neck of the implant to secure it in position, thereby forming a reinforced structure to inhibit dislocation of the prosthesis. However, in other methods, various other securing elements, including, but not limited to acellular matrices, may be used to retain the implant in position.

Abstract: A pre-cured caulk joint system including a joint having a width and opposite walls, an insert being formed of a flexible material and having a length and a width, and an adhesive. The width of the insert being greater than the width of the joint, the insert being received in the joint length-wise with the insert being compressed width-wise along its length, the insert having opposite walls, with one wall facing towards one wall of the joint, and the other wall of the insert facing towards the other wall of the joint, a channel being defined by each wall of the insert, and an adhesive being received in each wall of the insert for adhering the walls of the insert to the walls of the joint.