GLENOID VAULT FIXATION

Abstract

A joint prosthesis system, specifically a shoulder prosthesis, for shoulder replacement, revision and repair. The implants provide fixation into the best bone available to a surgeon. The implants are used in a superior-inferior and anterior-posterior construct forming a type of cross or X-shape. The implants allow for interchangeability of the articulating component as well as rotational orientation. The systems will allow for augments to accommodate bone loss. The implants may allow for additional security using screws or anchors inserted into the scapula.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of the following, which are incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety:

This application is a continuation-in-part of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/360,459 filed on Jan. 27, 2012, which carries Applicants' docket no. CCF-1 and is entitled GLENOID VAULT FIXATION; and

Pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/568530 filed Dec. 8, 2011, which carries Applicants' docket no. CCF-1 PROV, and is entitled GLENOID VAULT FIXATION.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to shoulder repair and revision surgery. More accurately, the present disclosure relates to a shoulder prosthetic and more precisely to a glenoid or glenosphere vault system for repairing or revising a shoulder. It is contemplated that this system is applicable to shoulder and reverse shoulder repair. It is contemplated that the systems and methods set forth herein, or any adaptations, may be useful outside of and beyond shoulder repair and humerus repair.

One attribute, of shoulder repair surgery is the limit of anatomical. bone the patient has to provide for adequate repair and even more so with shoulder revision. The shoulder naturally only provides a limited amount of bone for the shoulder joint to function. When shoulder repair is needed it is often performed with large anchor devices embedded in what bone is available to allow for proper security of an articulating surface or glenosphere to attach to the anchor. These devices require a large removal of bone. Further revision surgery requires even greater bone loss as original anchors are removed and replaced with new anchors. There is a need to have a smaller footprint anchor without limiting the fixation of the articulating components. There is also a need to have the ability for revision shoulder repair without removal of the original anchors, solely replacing the articulating components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the present system will now he discussed with reference to the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical examples of the present system and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the invention, as set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1A is an exploded perspective view of a glenoid vault system with a superior-inferior (SI) component, an anterior-posterior (AP) component, an articulating component and screws;

FIG. 1B is an exploded bottom perspective view of a glenoid vault system with a superior-inferior (SI) component, an anterior-posterior (AP) component, an articulating component and screws;

FIG. 2. is an assembled perspective view of the glenoid vault system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional side view of the glenoid vault system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the SI and AP components of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembled SI and AP components of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective top view of the SI and AP components of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the SI and AP components of FIG. 1 with the AP component rotated to show it is rotatable about the center of the SI component;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the SI component of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the SI component of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the AP component of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a side view of the AP component of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of the AP component of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13A is a partially exploded perspective view of the SI and AP components of FIG. 1 and a glenosphere;

FIG. 13B is a bottom partially exploded perspective view of a glenosphere and a metaglene;

FIG. 13C is a top perspective exploded view of the glenosphere and a metaglene;

FIG. 13D is a bottom perspective, assembled view of the glenosphere of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the glenosphere of FIG. 13D engaged with an actuating instrument with a handle, rod and threaded portion;

FIG. 14B is a cross section of the glenosphere of FIG. 13D engaged with the actuating instrument of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15A is an exploded perspective view of a glenoid vault system with an SI component, an AP component with an augment, an articulating component and screws;

FIG. 15B is an exploded bottom view of a glenoid vault system with an SI component, and AP component with an augment, an articulating component and screws;

FIG. 15C is a side view of a glenoid vault system with an SI component, an AP component with an augment, an articulating component and screws;

FIG. 16 is an assembled perspective view of the glenoid vault system of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the AP component of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an assembled SI component of FIG. 1 or 15 and a cylindrical component;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the cylindrical component of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a partially exploded perspective view of the SI component of FIG. 1 or 15, the cylindrical component of FIG. 18 and an articulating component with augment;

FIG. 21 is an assembled side view the SI component of FIG. 1 or 15, the cylindrical component of FIG. 18 and the articulating component with augment of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view of the articulating component with augment of FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view of an articulating component with stepped augment;

FIG. 24 is a partially exploded alternate embodiment of a glenoid vault system with a horizontal member, vertical member, screws, a hex component and an articulating component;

FIG. 25 is a cross sectional side view of the glenoid vault system of FIG. 24 with the horizontal member extending across the page;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the vertical and horizontal members of FIG. 24;

FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of the vertical and horizontal components of FIG. 24;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the vertical component of FIG. 24;

FIG. 29 is a top view of the vertical component of FIG. 24;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the horizontal component of FIG. 24;

FIG. 31 is a top view of the horizontal component of FIG. 24;

FIG. 32 is a cross sectional side view of the horizontal component of FIG. 24;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the vertical component of FIG. 24 and a cylindrical member;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the vertical and horizontal component of FIG. 25 with an augment member;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the augment member of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a side view of the glenoid vault system of FIG. 24 with the augment of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of an alternate augment;

FIG. 38 is a side view of the glenoid vault system of FIG. 24 with the augment of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of an alternate augment;

FIG. 40 is a side view of the glenoid vault system of FIG. 24 with the augment of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an anchoring system for the glenoid vault with an alternate vertical member and horizontal member and screws;

FIG. 42 is a top view of the alternate embodiment anchoring system of FIG. 41 with the vertical component rotated to show it is rotatable about the center of the horizontal component;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of the anchoring system of FIG. 41 with the vertical member slightly exploded from the horizontal member;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the horizontal member of FIG. 41;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the vertical member of FIG. 41;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an anchoring system for the glenoid vault with blade anchors;

FIG. 47 is a top view of the anchoring system of FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the horizontal member of FIG. 46;

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the vertical member of FIG. 46;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a sample blade anchor for use in the systems of FIGS. 46, 52 and 54;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an anchor with bone wall filler;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a one piece vertical member with built in anchors and slots to receive more anchors;

FIG. 53 is a top perspective view of the one piece vertical member of FIG. 50 with horizontal anchors in the slots;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment glenoid vault system with a vault, screw, anchors and glenoid;

FIG. 55 is an exploded perspective view of the system of FIG. 54;

FIG. 56 is a cross sectional view of the vault and screw of FIG. 54;

FIG. 57 is a bottom perspective view of the glenoid of the system of FIG. 54; and

FIG. 58 is a bottom perspective view of a glenosphere that may be attached to the vault system of FIG. 54 in place of the glenoid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides systems, apparatus, and methods for shoulder replacement, repair and revision. The systems and methods described herein may improve shoulder prosthetics for use in shoulder arthoplasty and revision surgeries and provide stronger attachment of prosthetics to bone.

In this specification, standard medical directional terms are employed with their ordinary and customary meanings. Superior means toward the head. Inferior means away from the head. Anterior means toward the front. Posterior means toward the back. Medial means toward the midline, or plane of bilateral symmetry, of the body. Lateral means away from the midline of the body. Proximal means toward the trunk of the body. Distal means away from the trunk.

In this specification, standard shoulder anatomical terms are employed with their ordinary and customary meanings.

Referring to FIG. 1A, a perspective view illustrates a glenoid vault system 10 that may be implanted into a shoulder. The glenoid vault system 10 includes an articulating component 20, which may also be referred to as a glenoid, anchoring components which include a superior-inferior (SI) or vertical component 100, an anterior-posterior (AP) or horizontal component 200 and anchors 300 which may be screws. The system 10 creates interaction the different components with the articulating component 20 engaging the AP component 200 and the AP component engaging the SI component 100. The screws 300 may pass through different portions of the AP component 200 and the SI component 100.

The articulating component 20 may include a body 21, an articulating surface 22 and a bone-facing surface 26. The body 21 may be shaped to mirror an anatomical shoulder. The articulating surface 22, which may also be referred to as a first surface, may be smooth or rough on a micro- or macroscopic level. The articulating surface 22 may be semi-spherical or concave, and may be peripherally surrounded by a wall 24, which may also be referred to as a side portion. The wall 24 may extend between the articulating surface 22 and the bone-facing surface 26, where the bone-facing surface 26 is opposite to the articulating surface 22. When inserted, the bone-facing surface 26 may rest against the shoulder bone.

Referring to FIG. 1B, the bone-facing surface 26, which may also be referred to as a second surface, may include a post 28 extending outward from the bone-facing surface 26, The post 28 may be integral to the bone-facing surface 26, or may be separately formed from the body 21. The post 28 may extend substantially perpendicular to the articulating surface, and may be oriented such that it extends from a substantially central location of the bone-facing surface.

The post 28 may be substantially cylindrical and include a proximal shoulder portion 29, which may contact the bone-facing surface 26. The shoulder portion may include a plurality of notches 32, which may also be referred to as keels, teeth, blades, or leafs that extend along the length of the shoulder portion 29, and may be situated around the entire circumference of the post 28.

The post 28 may also include a circumferential groove or channel 30, which may also be referred to as a ring shaped cutout. The circumferential groove 30 may be located distal to the shoulder portion 29, and may extend continuously around the entire circumference of the post 28.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the glenoid vault system 10 assembles with the SI component 100 being embedded in the bone (not shown). The AP component 200 may rotate about a portion of the SI component with at least a portion of the AP component 200 within the SI component 100 before the AP component 200 is secured to the bone.

The articulating component 20 may be lockably attached to the AP component 200 by inserting the post 28 into a portion of the AP component 200, and may be secured to the AP component 200 via a complementary fit of the circumferential groove 30 with a complementary feature on the AP component 200. The articulating component 20 may otherwise be secured to the AP component 200 by another locking means, such as a Morse taper (not shown).

The system is described in further detail herein.

Referring to FIGS. 4-7, the SI component 100 and AP component 200 interact through a body 102, which may be a central ring, of the SI component 100 and a tubular boss 202 of the AP component 200. The tubular boss 202 may also be referred to as a protruded portion. The body 102 may be a ring and the ring may be central to the SI component 100; however, the geometric component may be offset from the center as well and may be any shape including cylindrical or other polygonal shape. The tubular boss 202 extends distally from a cylindrical wall 204 defining a hole 206, wherein the hole may be a centralized or a central hole. The tubular boss 202 may slidably engage the central ring 102 allowing the AP component 200 to rotate about the central ring 102 of the SI component 100. The AP component 200 may be secured to the SI component 100 through a Morse taper. The SI and AP components 100, 200 form a cruciate when they are engaged. A cruciate means a cross shape or X shape.

Referring to FIG. 8, the SI component 100 may include a bore 103, which may be a central bore, extending at least partially through the body or central ring 102 in a longitudinal direction and may extend entirely through the central ring 102. The SI component includes a distal end 104 and may include two arms 106, 108 extending from the central ring 102. The arms 106,108 may be integral to the body 102, or may be separately formed. The arms 106, 108 include a proximal end 110 and a distal end 112 that is the same distal end 112, 104 of the SI component 100. Portions of the arms 106, 108 extend proximally from the central ring 102 giving the SI component 100 a V or U-shaped. configuration for the Si component 100, The extension of the arms 106 proximally may be substantially parallel and substantially the same length, wherein the arms are coplanar; however the arms may differ in length slightly as well which may give the SI component 100 a J-shape wherein the arms are not coplanar. The extension of the arms 106, 108 may be collinear and the arms 106, 108 may prove to be mirror images if a cross section is taken of the SI component 100. The portion of the arms 106, 108 toward the central ring 102 may cylindrically curve around the central ring 102 with the same degree of curvature as the central ring 102. The body of the SI component 100 may be longer than it is wide from a top view providing a narrow footprint when the SI component sits within the bone with the arms 106, 108 narrower than the central ring 102.

The aim 106 may include an opening or bore 114 defined by a wall 116, which may be an arm ring, which may be cylindrical in shape, at the end of the arm 106. Bores 114 may also be referred to as lateral passages. The arm ring 116 may protrude from the arm 106 in substantially the same direction as the arm 106 extending from the central ring 102. The opening 114 may extend entirely through the arm ring 116 substantially parallel with the central bore 103. The opening 114 is substantially circular in cross section and configured to receive a screw 300. The opening 114 may include recesses, conical in shape, to guide the screw 300 into place in the SI component 100 as well as seat the screw 300 in its proper place. The opening 114 may be a double conical shape with the narrowest point seated toward the middle of the opening 114, the shape expanding outward toward either end of opening 114, as best seen in FIG. 9. The opening 114 may slidably or threadably receive the screws 300. The recesses in the openings 114 may allow for the heads of the screws 300 to sit flush with a proximal surface 120 at the proximal end 110 of the arms 106, 108 of the SI component 100. The arm 108 may include similar or identical features as aim 106, but extending in the opposite direction from the central ring 102.

The SI component 100 may be made from numerous different materials that include, but should not be limited to, titanium and alloys, cobalt-chrome and alloys, stainless steel, ceramic, tantalum, PEEK, PEAK, hydroxyapatite and biocompatible materials.

Referring to FIG. 9, the central ring 102 includes a larger cylindrical receiver 122. for receiving the tubular boss 202 of the AP component 200. The central ring 102 also includes a central opening 118 distal the cylindrical receiver 122. The central opening 118 may be conical in shape with the wider portion of the central opening toward the distal end 104. The proximal portion of the central opening 118 may include a seat 119, shaped to receive the head of a screw. One screw 300 may pass through the central bore 103, and the head of the screw may be captured on the seat 119, engaging the SI component 100 and locking it to the bone. The screw 300 may threadably or slidably engage the central bore 103.

A bone, wherein the bone may be a scapula, may be properly prepared by placing a guidewire on the bone. The bone is then reamed and a primary hole is drilled, the primary hole is drilled at size to allow the central ring 102 of the SI component 100 to fit within the primary hole. Secondary holes or pilot are drilled, sized, and shaped to accept other portions of the SI component. A cutting or punch instrument may be used to connect or bridge the primary and secondary holes. The bone is then broached for the near net shape of the SI component 100, An SI broach may be used as a trial implant. With the broach in the bone, or vault of the bone, the AP holes may be drilled to fit the exact size of the AP component 200. The same steps for the preparation of the SI component 100 are mimicked for the AP component 200 while the SI trial is in the bone, or vault of the bone. After proper size, shape and orientation are determined, the AP and SI trials are removed and replaced with the actual SI and AP components 100, 200, that can be secured to the bone using proper screws 300 or other anchors. The screws 300 may through the central bore 103 and the head of the screw 300 engages the SI component 100 through the conical shaped opening, securing the SI component to the bone. Additional screws may pass through the openings 114 for greater security of the SI component 100 to the bone. The AP component 200 may be further secured as well with screws that pass through holes 214 of the AP component 200

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the AP component 200 may include the central cylindrical wall 204 defining the central hole 206 extending entirely through the AP component with the central hole 206 passing into the tubular boss 202. The central hole 206 and tubular boss 202 may include a central axis 205 that extends through the center of the hole 206. The tubular boss 202 may be an extension of the central hole 206. The tubular boss 202. may be circumferentially smaller than the cylindrical wall 204 defining the central hole 206.

The central hole 206, which may also be referred to as a first aperture, may be shaped to receive the post 28 of the articulating component 20. A proximal portion 207 of the central. hole 206 may include a plurality of vertical grooves or channels 209 that are complimentary to the notches 32 on the shoulder portion 29 of the post 28. The grooves 209 may allow for rotational orientation of the articulating component 20 and may be cross-sectionally rounded or squared. Further, the central hole 206 may include a circumferential engagement ring 222, as illustrated in FIG. 12, that is distal to the plurality of grooves or channels 209, and proximal to the tubular boss 202. The engagement ring may have a complementary shape to the circumferential groove 30 on the post, and may protrude out from the central wall 204, extend toward the center of the central hole 206, or it may be a cut out within the central wall 204, extending away from the center of the central hole 206.

An alternate embodiment of an anti-rotation/rotational orientation feature which may take the place of the notches or grooves 209 may include splines (not shown) extending from a proximal surface 224 of either the AP or SI component 100, 200. The splines may engage crescent bosses (not shown) that extend from the hone facing surface 26 of the articulating component 20. The crescent bosses may include multiple holes for receiving the splines.

First and second AP arms 208, 210 extend away from the central hole at or toward the proximal end 206 of the AP component 200. The AP arms 208, 210 may be collinear with the first AP arm 208 extending in an opposite direction as the second AP arm 210, Each of the AP arms 208, 210 may be the same length; however, the AP arms 208, 210 may differ in length as well depending on the patient anatomy and what bone is available to secure the AP component 200 to. Similar to the SI component arms 106, 108 the AP arms 208, 210 each have arm walls 212, which may be AP arm rings, The AP arm rings 212 may protrude from the arms 208, 210 in substantially the same direction as the arms 208, 210 extending from the cylindrical wall 204. The AP arm rings 212 include holes 214 extending entirely through the AP arm rings. The holes 214 may also be referred to as AP lateral passages. The holes 214 may be substantially cylindrical in shape, to allow for passage of the screws 300 to aid in securing the AP component 200 to the bone.

One or more keels 216 may extend distally from the AP arms toward a distal end. 218 of the tubular boss 202. The keels 216 may be used for bone purchase. The keels 216 may extend beyond the distal end 218 of the tubular boss. keels 216 may cylindrically curve around. the tubular boss 202 with the same degree of curvature as the tubular boss 202. The keels 216 may extend substantially parallel to one another creating a slot 220 between each one of the keels 216 and the tubular boss 202. The slot 220 receives the central ring 102 of the SI component 100. The keels 216 may provide rotational stops when the keels engage the arms 106, 108 of the SI component 100 preventing any further rotations of the AP component 200. The body of the AP component 200 may be longer than it is wide providing a narrow footprint when the AP component 200 engages the SI component 100 and resides in the bone.

To engage the articulating component 20 with the AP component 200, the post 28 on the bone-facing surface 26 of the articulating component 20 may be at least partially inserted into the central hole 206 of the AP component 200, until the circumferential groove 30 on the post engages with the engagement ring 222 in the central hole 206. Once the post 28 has been inserted into the central hole 206, the complementary fit of the engagement ring 222 with the circumferential groove 30 serves to reversibly lock axial movement of the articulating component 20 with respect to the AP component 200. The interaction of the engagement ring 222 with the circumferential groove 30 may be a snap fit or a seal or another locking mechanism. Further, the plurality of grooves 209 on the central hole 206 may capture the proximal notches, which may restrict axial rotation about the central axis 205 of the central hole 206.

The holes 214 in the arms 208, 210 may taper or recess from the proximal end 207 toward a distal end providing guidance for the screws and engagement with the screw heads. The holes 214 may threadably or slidably receive the screws 300 and the recesses or tapers may allow the screw head to sit flush with a proximal surface 224 at the proximal end 207 of the AP component 200.

The AP component 200 may be made from numerous different materials, which include, but should not be limited to, titanium and alloys, cobalt-chrome and alloys, stainless steel, ceramic, tantalum, hydroxyapatite and biocompatible materials.

One method of implanting the system 10 includes preparing the bone as previously described and implanting the SI component 100 into the bone with appropriate screws 300. The AP component 200 may properly engage the SI component 100 with the tubular boss 202 slidably engaging the central ring 102, wherein a central axis of the tubular boss 205 may be axially aligned with a central axis of the central ring. 02. The AP component 200 is carefully placed at a proper angle, which may be predetermined, within the best available bone to provide greater security. Screws 300 may pass through the holes 214 to secure the AP component 200 to the bone. The articulating component 20 may engage the AP component 200 after it the AP component 200 is properly placed and positioned within the SI component 100 and the bone. The order in which the components engage one another is not restrictive and separate order may be established such as engaging the SI and AP component 100, 200 prior to implanting into the bone.

Referring to FIGS. 13A-13B, a glenosphere 60 may replace or be used instead of an articulating component 20. The glenosphere 60 may be used for a reverse shoulder arthroplasty but may engage the AP component 200 in the same manner as the articulating component 20 Referring to FIG. 13A, a glenosphere 60 is shown in relation to an AP-SI complex, wherein a post extending from a distal portion of the glenosphere is shaped to be received in the central hole 206 of the AP component.

The glenosphere 60 may include a body 61, an articulating surface 62 and a distal surface, bone-facing surface 64. The articulating surface 62 may be substantially semi-spherical or domed shape and may be smooth or rough on a micro- or macro scale. The articulating surface may also include an aperture 65 at or near the apex of the dome 62. The radius of curvature of the domed articulating surface 62 may vary to accommodate various patient anatomies.

Referring to FIG. 13B, the bone facing surface 64 is substantially circular, and intersects the dome-shaped articulating surface at all points along its circumference. The bone facing surface 64 may also include a substantially circular recessed portion 68 or dome cutout, which may be offset from the center of the bone facing surface 64. The recessed portion 68 may otherwise be oval or polygonally shaped. The recessed portion 68 may be shaped to receive a metaglene component 66. The recessed portion 68 may be defined by a circumferential wall 61 and include a ceiling surface 63. The aperture 65 may extend entirely from the articulating surface 62 to intersect the ceiling surface 63 of the recessed portion.

Referring to FIG. 13C, the aperture 65 may include a threaded portion 67 to engage a threaded instrument that may be used for insertion or removal of the glenosphere from an AP-SI complex that has been inserted into the bone as described above.

As illustrated in FIGS. 13B and 13C, the metaglene component 66 may be formed separately from the glenosphere 60, and may be substantially disc-shaped or stoutly cylindrical. Alternatively, the metaglene component 66 may be integrally formed with the body 61 of the glenosphere 66. The metaglene component 66 may otherwise by oval or polygonally shaped. Metaglene component 66 may include a body 67, a first, glenosphere-facing surface 69 and a distal surface 71.

The distal surface 71 of metaglene component 66 may include a post 72 that extends substantially perpendicularly away from the distal surface 71, which may include features similar to post 28 on the articulating component 20 described previously, such as a shoulder portion 29 with a plurality of notches 32, and a circumferential groove 76 shaped to lockably engage a complementary engagement ring 222 in the central hole of the AP-component. Additionally, the post 72 may include a step 74 that extends between the shoulder portion 29 and the distal surface 71. Alternatively as illustrated in FIG. 13D, the shoulder portion may be smooth, and include no engagement features such as notches, to allow the metaglene to rotate axially with respect to the central axis 205 of the central hole 206 of the AP-component 200.

The metaglene may also include at least one metaglene hole 70 that passes entirely through the body, and may be shaped to receive screws to fixate the metaglene to the bone. The metaglene holes 70 may also provide a place for securing an augment to the glenosphere.

As best seen in FIG. 13D, the metaglene 66 is shaped to be received by the recessed. portion 68, and may engage the recessed portion 68 through a Morse-taper. The metaglene 66 may also be attached to the glenosphere via a press or snap fit. After the metaglene 66 is inserted into the recessed portion 68 of the glenosphere 60, the distal surface of the metaglene component 66 may sit flush with the bone facing surface 64 of the glenosphere 60.

Referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the glenosphere 60 is shown engaged with an actuating instrument 80, which includes a threaded distal portion 82, and elongated intermediate portion 84, which may be rod-shaped and a proximal handle portion 86. The handle 86 may extend substantially perpendicular to the rod 84. The instrument 80 engages with the threads 67 of the aperture 65 located at the apex of the domed articulating surface 62.

To secure the glenosphere to the AP component, the post 72 may be partially inserted into the central hole 206 of the AP component. The instrument 80 may then be used to advance the glenosphere 60 and attached metaglene 66 component distally until the circumferential groove 30 engages the engagement ring 222 and a the glenosphere 60 becomes reversibly locked to the AP component 200. The instrument 80 may act to advance the glenosphere 60 and metaglene 66 construct by engaging the distal threaded portion 82 with the threaded portion 67 of the aperture 65 and turning the handle 86 in a first direction.

The instrument 80 may also be used to separate a glenosphere-metaglene construct that has been inserted into an AP-component 200, for example, to replace the glenosphere 60 with an articulating component 20. The threaded distal portion 82 of the instrument 80 may engage the threaded portion 67 of the aperture 65, and the handle 86 may be turned in a second direction that is opposite of the first direction. As the handle 86 is turned in the second direction, an upward force is applied against the threads 67 in the aperture, thus creating a separating force on the glenosphere-metaglene construct. The upward force may be great enough to overcome the snap fit lock of the engagement ring 222 with the circumferential groove 30 on the post 78, and the glenosphere may be gently removed from the AP component.

Alternatively, the actuating instrument 80 may be used to remove only the glenosphere component, leaving the metaglene component to be accessed by the surgeon for further removal. The threaded portion 82 of the actuating instrument 80 may engage the threaded portion 67 of the aperture such that as the handle 86 is turned in a first direction, the instrument 80 moves distally in the aperture 65 until it contacts the glenosphere-facing surface 69 of the metaglene 66. As the handle turns 86 in the first direction, a sufficient force is applied against the glenosphere-facing surface 69 of the rnetaglene to “pop off” the domed glenosphere component 60, overcoming the Morse-taper fit and releasing the glenosphere component, leaving only the metaglene 66 component attached to the AP component 200. The metaglene 66 can then also be removed by pulling upwards to release the engagement ring 222 from the circumferential groove 30, thus releasing the post 28 from the central hole 206.

It can be best seen in FIG. 14B that the recessed portion 68 and the attached metaglene 66 are offset from the center of the distal face 64. The offset may better allow a surgeon the ability to “dial” the metaglene 66 to the necessary anatomic position for the glenosphere 60. This is of particular importance in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, where a glenoid may be inserted in a position that is not sufficiently anatomically inferior. Upon revision (removal of the glenoid and replacement with a glenosphere), scapular notching may occur, causing much pain and further shoulder degradation to the patient. By modularizing the metaglene component 66 and offsetting the placement of the metaglene 66 within the glenosphere 60, a surgeon may be able to “lateralize” the joint by moving the glenosphere further away from the original joint line.

The glenosphere 60 and the articulating component 20 may engage the AP component 200 without removal of either the AP component 200 or the SI component 100 of the glenoid vault system 10. Revision surgery is done with greater ease because the components can be snapped in and out of the SI and AP anchors 100, 200 without removal of any more bone.

Referring to FIGS. 15A-15C, an alternate embodiment of a glenoid vault system 410 includes an articulating member 420, an AP component 500 with an augment, the SI component 100 and the anchors or screws 300. The interaction between the different components is similar to the previous embodiment.

The articulating member 420 is substantially similar to the previously described embodiment of an articulating component 20. The articulating member 420 has a curvature shaped to mirror an anatomical shoulder with a semi-spherical or concave articulating surface 422 peripherally surrounded by a wall 424. The articulating component also includes a bone-facing surface 426 facing the opposite direction as the articulating surface 422 and a post 428 extending from the bone-facing surface 426 in a substantially central location of the bone-facing surface 426. The bone facing surface 426 may rest against the scapula. The post 428 may include a ring shaped cutout 430 toward the distal end of the post 428 and notches 432 toward the proximal end of the post 428. However, this embodiment of the articulating member 420 includes an augment 434 extending from the bone facing surface 426 separate from the post 428 and the augment 434 is not as long as the post 428. It will be appreciated that in some instances or embodiments the augment 434 may extend or be longer than, or the same length as, the post 428.

Illustrated in FIG. 15B, the augment 434 may extend from only one side of the bone-facing surface 426. The augment 434 includes a surface portion 435 that extends along a transverse plane that is substantially parallel with a horizontal axis 433 that extends through the intersection of the distal post 428 with the bone-facing surface 426, as illustrated in FIG. 15C, The surface portion 435 may be wing shaped and extend radially from the center of the bone-facing surface 426. The shape of the augment surface may vary. The augment may be peripherally defined by a perimeter wall 437 that extends perpendicular to the transverse plane 433. The height of the perimeter wall 437 may vary along the periphery of the augment to match the contoured bone facing surface 426 of the articulating member 420. The curvature of a portion of the peripheral wall may follow the peripheral curvature of the wall 424 of the articulating member 420. Another portion of the peripheral wall may extend straight across the length of the bone-facing surface 426.

The surface area of the augment 434 may be less than half of the total surface area of the bone-facing surface 426. Referring to FIG. 16, the augmented articulating member 420 is shown engaged with an augmented AP member 500. The augment 434 interacts with a portion of the AP component 500 that will be discussed further herein. The augment 434 is provided to replace an area where much of the bone has been removed.

Referring to FIG. 17, the AP component 500 may include the central cylindrical wall 504 defining central hole 506 extending entirely through the AP component with the central hole 506 passing into the tubular boss 502, The tube of the tubular boss 502 may be an extension of the central hole 506. The tubular boss 502 may be circumferentially smaller than the cylindrical wall 504 defining the central hole 506 while the circumference of the central hole 506 may remain constant through from the cylindrical wall 504 to a distal end 510 of the tubular boss 502. At a proximal end 512 the central hole 506 of the AP component 500 may reside notches or grooves 509 that may serve a complimentary fit with the notches 432 of the articulating component 420 to allow rotational orientation of the articulating component and prevent rotation of the articulating component 420 after engaging the AP component 500. The engagement of the post 428 with the central hole 506 may occur similar to the engagement of post 28 with central hole 206 as described previously.

An AP augment 508 extends away from the central hole 506 from the distal end 510 of the AP component 500 and may be shaped to receive the augment 434 of the articulating member 420. The AP augment 508 may extend 180° or more around the circumferential edge of the cylindrical wall 504. A peripheral wall 514 wraps around the AP augment 508 and may match the curvature of the articulating member 420. The AP augment 508 also include an articulating facing side 516 and a bone facing side 518. The articulating facing side 516 may include pockets 520 divided by a ridge 522, The pockets 520 receive and complimentary fit the augment 434 of the articulating member 420. The pockets 520 may match the curvature of the peripheral wall 514 of the AP augment 508. Each pocket 520 may include an augment hole 524 to allow for passage of a screw. The augment hole 524 may pass through the entire body of the AP augment 508 in substantially the same direction as the central hole 506. The screw may threadably or slidably pass through the augment hole 524 wherein the screw head may engage the augment hole 524 and secure the AP component 500 to the bone.

The AP component 500 may include the same or similar features as the previously described embodiment including the engagement ring 222 that engages the ring shaped cutout 430 of the articulating member 420. The AP component 500 also includes the grooves or notches 509 that interact with the notches 432 of the articulating member 420 in much the same manner as the previous embodiment to allow rotational orientation of the articulating component and prevent rotation of the articulating member 420 about the AP component 500.

A method of implanting this embodiment of the glenoid vault system 410 is similar to that previously described herein substituting the alternate embodiment AP component 500 for the previous AP component 200.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a cylindrical component 600 may include some of the similar features of the previous AP components 200, 500. The cylindrical component 600 includes the same or similar features as the previously disclosed AP components 200, 500 with the exclusion of arms and augments and simply includes the cylindrical portion itself. Cylindrical component 600 includes a tubular boss 602 extending from a cylindrical wall 604 defining a central hole 606. The tubular boss 602 may be circumferentially smaller than the cylindrical wall 604 defining the central hole 606 while the circumference of the central hole 506 may remain constant through from a proximal end 608 of the cylindrical wall 604 to a distal end 610 of the tubular boss 602. Similar to the previous embodiments, at the proximal end 608 of the cylindrical van 604 reside notches or grooves 612 which may serve as a complimentary fit with the notches of the articulating members or components, or the glenosphere to allow rotational orientation of the articulating component and prevent rotation of the articulating member or component, or glenosphere after engaging the AP component 600.

The cylindrical component 600 may also include the engagement ring 222 as previously disclosed for securing an articulating component or member or glenosphere, particularly the post portion of the articulating component, to the cylindrical component 600. The security of the two parts may come from a seal or snap fit, or other locking means including a Morse taper (not shown) which may not require an engagement ring, as previously described herein.

The cylindrical component 600 may be advantageously suited for use with an augmented articulating component or augmented glenosphere in that no arms, like those found in the other AP components 200, 500, are in the way of the augments on the articulating component and glenosphere designs.

Referring to FIGS. 20-22, an articulating component 720 includes an augment 722 as part of the articulating component, essentially a one-piece articulating component with augment. A peripheral wall 724 extends from an articulating surface 730 to the hone-facing surface 726. The augment 722 may be separate from a post 728 and extend from a bone facing side 726 separate from where the post 728 extends from the bone facing side 726. The articulating component 720 further includes notches 732 that interact or engage the grooves or notches 612 of the cylindrical component in much the same manner as the previous embodiment forming a complimentary fit preventing rotation of the articulating component 720. The post 728 may further include the ring shaped cutout 734 for locking the articulating component 720 to the cylindrical component 600.

The augment 722 may also be rounded or smoothly tapered extending from the peripheral wall 724. The augment 722. may extend from the peripheral wall 724 toward a medial line or middle point of the articulating component 720 and wrap around the post 728 but not contacting the post 728. The post 728 may be greater in length than the augment 722. The augment 722 of the articulating component 720 is to replace that area of the shoulder where bone may be removed, as is the case with all the augment designs disclosed herein.

Referring to FIG. 23, an alternate embodiment of an articulating component 760 may include an augment 762 with a step-down taper. The step-downs may step down both peripherally and in a lateral direction from a middle point or medial line of the articulating component 760. The remainder of the alternate embodiment may be substantially similar as the previous articulating component 720 embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, there is depicted an alternate embodiment of a glenoid vault system 1000. The components in this embodiment are similar to the previous system 10. An articulating component 1020 is substantially similar to the previous articulating component 20; however the articulating component 1020 does not include notches to prevent rotation of the articulating component 1020. In this embodiment a polygon, or keyed, component 1060 that includes a cylindrical hole 1062, is inserted onto or wraps around a post 1022, which may he cylindrical in shape, of the articulating component 1020. The polygon component 1060 may be press fit onto the post. The polygon component 1060 may be hexagonal in shape. The polygon component 1060 engages a complimentary recess within an AP component 1200, preventing rotation of the articulating component 1020.

The post 1022 includes substantially the same feature of a cutout configured to interact with an engagement ring on the AP component 1200 to lock the post 1022 to the AP component 1200. The lock may be a snap fit, or seal 1024, or other locking means including a Morse taper (not shown) which may not require an engagement ring.

Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, the glenoid vault system 1000 also includes an SI component 1100 and AP component 1200 and anchors or screws 1300 similar to the previous system 10. The features of these components differ slightly and will be described further herein. The interaction between the SI component 1100 and AP component 1200 is substantially the same as the previous system 10. A tubular boss 1202 of the AP component may slideably engage a central ring 1102 of the SI component, allowing the AP component to rotate within the central ring 1102.

Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the SI component 1100 includes a central bore 1103 passing entirely through the central ring 1102 and arms 1106, 1108 extending from the central ring 1102. The arms 1106, 1108 extend in a wing-like manner from the central ring 1102 curvedly tapering from a proximal end 111 toward a distal end 1112. Instead of rings extending from the arms as in the previous embodiment, the arms include openings 1114 that may extend entirely through the arm to receive screws 1300 (not shown) in substantially the same manner as previously described in the previous embodiment. The arms 1106, 1108 may include tracks 1116 for receiving an augment (as depicted in FIGS. 34-38). The tracks 1116 may be dovetail shaped and may be on either side of the arms 1106, 1108, on one arm or both arms. The tracks 1116 may run partially or entirely from the proximal end 1110 to the distal end 1112. The SI component 1100, from a profile view, may be U-shaped.

Referring to FIGS. 30-32, the AP component 1200 includes the tubular boss 1202 and a body 1204, with a central hole 1206 passing entirely through the center of the body 1204 and through the tubular boss 1202. The tubular boss 1202 may extend from the center of the body 1204 at a distal end 1218 of the AP component 1200. The AP component 1200 also includes AP arms 1208, 1210 extending similarly to the arms of the ST component 1100, The AP arms 1208, 12010 extend from the center of the body 1204 at the distal end 1218 toward a proximal end 1216 in a wing-like manner, curvedly tapering from the proximal end 1216 toward the distal end 1218. The arms include holes 1214 that may extend entirely through the arm to receive screws 1300 in substantially the same manner as the previously embodiment.

The AP component 1200 further includes a polygon recess or polygon key 1220 toward the proximal end 1216 within the body 1204 of the AP component 1200. The polygon recess 1220 provides complimentary fit for the polygon component 1060 wherein the polygon component 1060 may, but is not required to, sit flush with the proximal end 1216 within the polygon recess 1220. Within the central hole 1206 is an engagement ring 1222 that is substantially similar to the previous embodiment and interacts in substantially the same way to form a snap tit or seal or other similar locking mechanism including a Morse taper (not shown) which may not require an engagement ring.

Referring to FIG. 33, an alternate embodiment a cylindrical component 1400 with features of the AP component 1200 is shown, and is similar to the cylindrical component 600. The elements of the body of the AP component 1400 are substantially similar to component 600, having a tubular boss (not shown but within the central bore of the SI component 1100), a central hole 1402 and a polygon recess 1404. The cylindrical component may also include an engagement ring as previously described to lock the articulating component 1020 to the AP component 1400. This embodiment lacks arms and may he better suited to receive augments like those depicted in FIGS. 34-38.

Referring to FIGS. 34-36, an augment 1500 is shown with the SI component 1100 and the AP component 1200. The augment 1500 includes a straight edge 1502 with two dovetailed protrusions 1504 spaced apart from one another, perpendicular to the straight edge 1502, and configured to slide in the tracks 1116 of the SI component 1100. The straight edge 1502 terminates on each end of the augment where two curved edges 1506 arch back toward a midline of the augment 1500. A valley 1508 may divide the augment into two mirror image sides wherein each side of the augment includes a pocket 1510 which may receive a partial augment from the articulating component 1020 similar to the partial augment of articulating component 420 or the one-piece augment articulating components 720, 760. The pockets 1510 may include holes 1512 passing through the augment 1500 to allow for passage of screws 1300 to secure the augment 1500 to the bone.

Referring to FIGS. 37 and 38, an augment 1600 may include substantially the same features of the augment 1500; however, the augment 1600 may include tubular bosses 1602 extending in a direction away from the articulating component essentially extending the length of holes 1604 for receiving the screws 1300. The screws 1300 may secure the augment 1600 to the bone.

Referring to FIGS. 39 and 40, an augment 1700 includes a curved surface 1702 shaped to lie against a bone facing surface 1762 of an articulating component 1760. The curvature of the curved surface 1702 may match the curvature of the bone facing surface 1762. Extending from the opposite side of the curved surface 1702 of the augment 1700 is a saddle 1704 that straddles a horizontal or AP component 2200. The augment 1700 may include a centralized hole 1706 passing through the body of the augment 1700 as well as additional holes 1708 passing through the body of the augment 1700 to allow for passage of screws to secure the augment 1700 to the bone.

Referring to FIGS. 40-43, an alternate embodiment of a glenoid vault system 2000 is depicted with a vertical or SI member 2100, a horizontal or AP member 2200, screws 2300 and an articulating component 1750. The augment 1700 may or may not be present in this embodiment. This system 2000 is similar to the previously disclosed systems 10, 1000 with the exception that a portion of the vertical member 2100 fits in the horizontal member 2200 instead of vice versa. In this instance the horizontal member 2200 is embedded into the bone and then a portion of the vertical member 2100 slides into a portion of the horizontal member 2200,

The horizontal member 2200 includes all of the same elements as previously described for a previously described AP component 200 with the exception that the features of the central rings 102, 1102 of the previous embodiments are now found in the horizontal member 2200 instead of the vertical member 2100. The horizontal member 2200 is embedded in the bone in an anterior posterior direction firs and then the vertical member 2100 is embedded in the bone in a generally superior inferior direction. The horizontal member 2200 includes a central ring 2202 that is large enough to receive a tubular boss 2102 extending from the vertical member 2100.

Referring to FIG. 44, the horizontal member 2200 includes the central ring 2202 that defines a central bore 2204 that may pass partially or entirely through the central ring 2202. A screw 1300 may pass through the central bore 2204 to aid in securing the horizontal member 2200 to bone. Arms 2206, 2208 extend from the central ring 2202 rather abruptly in a proximal direction terminating at a proximal end 2210. The arms 2206, 2208 may be somewhat longer from the proximal end to a distal end 2212 than previous embodiments of the SI components 100, 1100. The arms 2206, 2208 may each include a bore 2214 which extend. the entire length of the arm from the proximal end 2210 to the distal end 2212 and are configured to receive screws 1300. The bores 2214 may surround a larger portion of the screws 1300 because of the greater length of the arms 2206, 2208 in a proximal/distal direction. Toward the distal end 222 of the arms 2206, 2208 a portion of the arms 2208, 2008 on the lateral side may be cut away to expose the threads of the screw 1300 to allow for greater security and fixation of the screws 1300 to the bone. Many features of the horizontal member 2200 are similar to those of the previously disclosed SI components 100, 1100 including the curvature of the arms toward the central ring 2204 matching the curvature of the central ring 2204 to allow the vertical member 2100 to rotate.

Referring to FIG. 45, the vertical member 2100 is short, narrow and elongated. The vertical member 2100 is stout from a proximal end 2104 to a distal end 2106. The tubular boss 2102 extends from the distal end and includes a portion of a central hole 2108 that may extend entirely from the proximal end 2104 to the distal end 2106 and through the entire length of the tubular boss 2102. The vertical member 2100 is elongated because of vertical member arms 2110, 2112 extending outwardly in opposite directions from the central hole 2108. The vertical member arms 2110, 2112 each include a hole 2114 to receive screws to secure the vertical member 2100 to the bone. The holes 2114 are separate from the central hole 2108. The walls within the central hole 2108 toward the proximal end 2104 may include grooves or notches 2116 that may form a keyed fit or complimentary interaction with articulating component notches 1764 seen in FIG. 40. These notches or grooves 2116 allow rotational orientation of the articulating component and prevent rotation of the articulating member 1760 after it engages the vertical member 2100. These notches or grooves 2166 may be rounded or squared or any shape that may prevent rotation and have the complimentary fit on the articulating component 1760.

The vertical member 2100 may also include an engagement ring (not shown) that is similar to the previous embodiment engagement ring 222. The engagement ring provides a reversible locking of the articulating component 1760 to the vertical member 2100 through a snap fit or seal, or other locking means including a Morse taper (not shown) which may not require an engagement ring, in substantially the same manner as previously disclosed.

The method for inserting the vertical and horizontal members into the bone is substantially similar as previously described except with the bone may require anterior-posterior preparation first instead of superior-inferior preparation. The order of implantation and interaction between the components can be changed and is not meant to be restrictive.

Referring to FIGS. 46-51, an alternate embodiment of a glenoid vault system 3000 with a horizontal member 3200 and vertical member 3100 is depicted. The system 3000 is substantially similar to the previous system 2000 with a few notable exceptions. Horizontal member tracks 3202 are in place of the bores 2214 in the arms 2206, 2208 of the horizontal member 2200. Likewise vertical member tracks 3102 are in place of the holes 2114 of the arms 2110, 2112 of the vertical member 2100. The tracks 3102, 3202 may be dovetailed to receive anchors 3300, which may be blade anchors similar to those found in U.S. published patent application no. 2010/0204739, which is herein incorporated by reference, and are further depicted in FIG. 50. Another type of anchor is that depicted in FIG. 51 and which provides an alternate embodiment of the anchor 3300. The anchor 3300 may be a bone-augmenting anchor 3302 that may provide for alternate fixation by adding greater size to the blade portion 3304. The blade portion 3304 of the bone-augmenting anchor may be rectangular or trapezoidal in cross sectional shape. The blade anchors 3300 may be embedded or inserted into the bone in the manner as described in the incorporated patent application.

The method for implantation using blade anchors 3300 may be slightly different simply because the blade anchors may require little to no bone preparation for securing those anchors to the bone and is outlined in the published patent application referenced herein.

Referring to FIGS. 46 and 49, the vertical member 3100 also includes new features such as roughened or interrupted surface geometry that may be circumferential ridges 3104 that may aid in preventing pull out of the vertical member 3000. Ridges 3104 may be used in all the previous embodiments as well. The vertical member 3100 also includes a wall 3106 cylindrically surrounding a central hole 3108. The wall 3106 includes to at least two cutouts 3110 on opposing sides of the wall 3106 toward a proximal end. The cutouts 3110 provide a keyed or complimentary fit with an articulating component (not shown) to allow rotational orientation of the articulating component and prevent rotation of the articulating component after engaging the vertical member 3100. The shape, size and number of the cutouts may vary and may be similar to those previous described as notches or grooves herein.

Referring to FIGS. 52 and 53, a single anchoring system 3400 includes only a vertical member 3402 that is implantable in a shoulder in superior-inferior direction, The vertical member includes features substantially similar to the previous embodiment vertical member 3100; however the present embodiment does not interact with a horizontal member. This vertical member 3402 includes a distal end 3404, a proximal end 3406, and a central hole 3408 defined by a cylindrical wall 3410 substantially the same as the previous embodiment vertical member 3100 with the same cutouts 3110 as previously described. The central hole 3408 terminates just prior to a distal end 3404 and does not pass through the entire body of the vertical member 3402. Arms 3412, 3414 extend from the cylindrical wall 3406 in opposite directions away from the central hole 3408. The arms 3410, 3412 terminate with blade anchors 3300 integrally formed with the body of the vertical member 3400.

One or more tracks 3416 may be integrally formed within the body of the vertical member 3402 and extend from the proximal end 3406 toward the distal end 3404 terminating just prior to the distal end. The tracks 3416 may be dovetailed and are configured to receive anchors 3300. The number of tracks 3416 may vary and may extend from only one side of the arms 3412, 3414 or both sides. An articulating member may interact and engage the vertical member 3402 in much the same manner as any of the previous embodiment herein described.

Referring to FIGS. 54-56, an alternate embodiment of a glenoid vault system 4000 is depicted. The system 4000 includes a vault 4100 that may be pear-shaped, but may also be ovoid, spherical, cylindrical or many other shapes. The shape of the vault 4100 may depend on the bone preparation and the patient anatomy. The system also includes an articulating component 4200, a screw 4300, which may be a scapular spine screw, blade anchors 4400 as previously described herein, and a locking nut 4500.

The vault 4100 may comprise a circumferential wall 4102 defining the shape of the vault and encircling a central hole 4104 and an articulating void 4106 adjacent to and proximal the central hole 4104. The central hole 4104 may be cylindrical and may threadably or slidably receive the screw 4300. A screw seat 4105 (refer to FIG. 56) sits toward a distal end of the central hole 4104 and engages a head of the screw 4302 and allows the screw 4300 to pivot to secure the vault 4100 to the best bone. The locking nut 4500 is threaded and short and threadably engages the central hole 4104 locking the screw 4300 in place and preventing back-out. The locking nut 4500 fits at least partially, if not entirely, within the central hole 4104.

The articulating void 4106 provides a space for the articulating member 4200 to engage and lock to the vault 4100. The articulating void 4106 defined by the all 4102 may have the same shape as the vault 4100. The void 4106 may taper, providing an overhang 4108 of the wall 4102 to provide a snap fit for engaging the articulating component 4200. The wall 4102 may also include an engagement ring similar to those embodiments previously described that protrudes toward the central hole 4104 into the void 4106.

Multiple tracks 4110 may be embedded in the outside of the wall 4102. The tracks may be substantially similar as the tracks 3416, 3102 previously described herein and interact with the blade anchors 4400 in substantially the same manner as previously described herein.

Referring to FIG. 57, the articulating component 4200 may be similar to those embodiments previously described with the exception of the post. A post 4202 extends from the bone facing side of the articulating component 4200 but may form a larger footprint from those posts previously disclosed. The post 4202 may include a first locking mechanism 4204 and a second locking mechanism 4206. The first locking mechanism 4204 is a reverse taper that extends out from where thee post initially protrudes from the bone facing side of the articulating component 4200. On the opposite side of the post 4202 is the second locking mechanism 4206 that comprises a shoulder 4208 to snap into the void 4106 below the overhang 4108 of the wall 4102.

Referring to FIG. 58, the articulating glenosphere 4600 shows a similar engagement feature as the articulating component 4200 and engages the vault 4100 in substantially the same manner as the articulating component 4200. The articulating component 4200 and glenosphere 4600 are reversibly locked to the vault so revision surgeries are easily accomplished without having to remove the vault 4100.

One method for implanting the vault system 4000 is to prepare the bone for the vault 4100 and securing the vault to the bone with the screw 4300. After securing the vault 4300 the locking nut 4500 locks the screw into place. The blade anchors 4400 may insert into the bone before, during or after the screw 4300 is inserted or fixed. The articulating component 4200 or glenosphere 4600 is then locked to the vault. The order in which the different components are secured is meant to be illustrative and not restrictive and the order may change within the scope of the system 4000.

In all embodiments described within this specification it will be appreciated that any articulating component or glenosphere will interact with the vaults in such a manner to allow for easy attachment while maintaining a robust design. The engagement allows for interchangeability from an articulating component to a glenosphere for easy revision. The engagement described previously with a snap fit or seal, or other locking means including a Morse taper (not, shown) which may not require an engagement ring, of either the articulating component post or the glenosphere post engaging the appropriate AP/horizontal or SI/vertical component with the groove and or ring.

The features of all of the different systems may include the following: the vertical member width may be less than 6 mm; the horizontal member width may be less than or equal to 5 mm; overall vault depth may be less than 20 mm; the central portion or central ring diameter may be less than 9 mm; the central hole or central bore may be used for a scapular spine screw; and the cross members/components length or anchor sizing can be varied.

The present embodiments may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. It is appreciated that various features of the above described examples and embodiments may be mixed and matched to form a variety of other combinations and alternatives. It is also appreciated that this system should not be limited simply to shoulder replacement, revision or repair and may easily be adapted to other joint replacement technology, including, but not limited to hip repair. As such, the described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to he embraced within their scope.

Claims

1-36. (canceled)

37. A method for inserting a prosthesis into a shoulder for shoulder repair, comprising:

preparing a bone for receiving an anchor;

positioning a superior-inferior component into the bone, the superior-inferior component comprises a body comprising a first bore, wherein the first bore comprises a seat, wherein the seat is shaped to receive the head of a screw, wherein the superior-inferior component comprises at least one superior-inferior component arm, wherein the first vertical component arm is integral to the body and extends from the body;

positioning an anterior-posterior component at least partially within the first bore of the superior-inferior component, the anterior-posterior component comprising a wall, wherein the wall defines an aperture, wherein the anterior-posterior component comprises a protruded portion distal to the wall, wherein the aperture extends into the protruded portion;

rotating the anterior-posterior component about the first bore to facilitate engagement with favorable bone; and

engaging a glenoid component within the aperture, wherein the glenoid component comprises a body, wherein the body comprises an articulating surface and a second surface opposite the articulating surf ace, wherein the second surf ace comprises a post that extends from the second surf ace, wherein when the glenoid component engages within the aperture, at least a portion of the post is contained within the aperture.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the at least one first superior-inferior component arm comprises two superior-inferior component arms, wherein each of the superior-inferior component arms further comprises a lateral bore separate from the central bore, wherein the method further comprises passing screws though each lateral bore; and securing the screws to the bone.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein the anterior-posterior component further comprises at least one anterior-posterior component arm integral to the wall, wherein the at least one anterior-posterior component arm comprises a lateral hole separate from the central hole, wherein the method further comprises passing at least one screw through the at least one lateral hole; and securing the at least one screw to the bone.

40. The method of claim 37, wherein when the anterior-posterior component is engaged with the superior-inferior component, the first bore is aligned with the first aperture, and the protruded portion is entirely contained within the bore, wherein the method further comprises inserting a screw through the aligned first bore and first aperture such that a head of the screw is captured by the seat; and securing the screw to the bone.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising attaching the articulating component to the anterior-posterior component by slidably locking the post within the aperture such that the head of the screw is lockably pressed against the seat.

42. A method for inserting a prosthesis into a shoulder for shoulder repair, comprising:

preparing a bone for receiving an anchor;

positioning a superior-inferior component into the bone, the superior-inferior component comprises a body comprising a first bore, wherein the superior-inferior component comprises a first superior-inferior component arm, wherein the first vertical component arm is integral to the body and extends from the body;

positioning an anterior-posterior component at least partially within the first bore of the superior-inferior component, the anterior-posterior component comprising a wall, wherein the wall defines an aperture;

rotating the anterior-posterior component about the first bore to facilitate engagement with favorable bone; and

engaging a glenosphere component within the aperture, wherein the glenosphere comprises a body and a metaglene component, wherein the metaglene component is received by a recessed portion on the body, wherein the metaglene comprises a post, wherein when the glenosphere component is engaged with the aperture, at least a portion of the post is contained within the aperture.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the at least one first superior-inferior component arm comprises two superior-inferior component arms, wherein each of the superior-inferior component arms further comprises a lateral bore separate from the central bore, wherein the method further comprises passing screws though each lateral bore; and securing the screws to the bone.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the anterior-posterior component further comprises at least one anterior-posterior component arm integral to the wall, wherein the at least one anterior-posterior component arm comprises a lateral hole separate from the central hole, wherein the method further comprises passing at least one screw through the at least one lateral hole; and securing the at least one screw to the bone.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein when the anterior-posterior component is engaged with the superior-inferior component, the first bore is aligned with the first aperture, and the protruded portion is entirely contained within the bore, wherein the method further comprises inserting a screw through the aligned first bore and first aperture such that a head of the screw is captured by the seat; and securing the screw to the bone.

46. The method of claim 45, further comprising attaching the glenosphere component to the anterior-posterior component by slidably locking the post within the aperture such that the head of the screw is lockably pressed against the seat.

47. A method for replacing a glenoid that is engaged with a vertical component in the bone with a glenosphere, comprising:

removing a glenoid that is engaged with an aperture in a vertical component that is inserted into bone;

preparing a glenosphere, wherein the glenosphere comprises a body, wherein the body comprises a proximal hole, wherein at least a portion of the proximal hole is threaded, and a metaglene component, wherein the metaglene component is received by a recessed portion on the body, wherein the metaglene comprises a post;

wherein preparing a glenosphere comprises inserting the metaglene into the recessed portion;

engaging the post of the metaglene in the aperture of the vertical component, wherein engaging the post in the aperture comprises at least partially inserting the post into the aperture; and

engaging a driving tool into the proximal hole and actuating the tool such that the glenosphere is pushed further into the aperture in the vertical component, wherein when the glenosphere is pushed further into the aperture, the glenosphere becomes lockably connected to the vertical component.