Abstract: An implantable device comprising a tapered body having a cavity therein, an open end, a first opening arranged diametrically opposite a second opening wherein the first and second openings are proximate the open end, and a plurality of apertures within the tapered body; and, a first ancillary member operatively arranged to project outwardly from the first opening and a second ancillary member arranged to project outwardly from the second opening. A method for surgically inserting and securing the implant into the sacroiliac joint, comprising the steps of: drilling a tapered body, tapping and placing a first ancillary member to either the sacrum or the iliac bone through an open end of the tapered body, and tapping and placing a second ancillary member to either the sacrum or the iliac bone through the open end of the body.

Abstract: Apparatus for fusing a first bone of a joint with a second bone of a joint, the apparatus comprising: a fusion block comprising a hollow tubular structure characterized by a first end, a second end and a lumen extending from said first end to said second end, the first end being configured to engage the first bone of the joint and the second end being configured to engage the second bone of the joint, the lumen being configured to span the distance from the first bone of the joint to the second bone of the joint and to receive and retain bone graft material therein, whereby to facilitate bone fusion across the fusion block; and at least one fusion plate for connecting the fusion block to the first bone of the joint and the second bone of the joint.

Abstract: An artificial SI-Joint includes a sacrum component and an ilium component. The sacrum component may include a ridge, foundation, perimeter surface and a fitting member. The ilium component may include a polybearing, edge, foundation, perimeter surface, and a ridge or sockets. The fitting member of the sacrum component may engage the polybearing of the ilium component to restore normal movement of the SI-Joint. The artificial SI-Joint may be implanted as a single unit or as separate pieces that are coupled together.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a resilient interpositional arthroplasty implant for application into a knee joint to pad cartilage defects, cushion a joint, and replace or restore the articular surface, which may preserve joint integrity, reduce pain and improve function. The implant may endure variable joint compressive and shear forces and cyclic loads. The implant may repair, reconstruct, and regenerate joint anatomy, and thereby improve upon joint replacement alternatives. Rather than using periosteal harvesting for cell containment in joint resurfacing, the walls of this invention may capture, distribute and hold living cells until aggregation and hyaline cartilage regrowth occurs. The implant may be deployed into debrided joint spaces, molding and conforming to surrounding structures with sufficient stability to avoid extrusion or dislocation.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the problem of solving issues of common mechanical endoprostheses and limitations of current cartilage replacement methods by manufacturing a complete implantable biological joint replacement. Devices which provide for the shaping, diffusion activation and particularly fulling of the joint replacement which is being produced—i.e. compression with alternating pressure and possibly a gliding motion of the fulling device on the surface of the joint replacement—are used in order to produce a weight bearing biological joint replacement with hyaline cartilage. Substances and processes which activate the formation of hyaline cartilage tissues are also provided. At the present time, the biological joint replacement is preferably suitable for implantation into the shoulder and hip, but can also be used for other joints by applying multidimensional grinding techniques.

Abstract: A joint support and subchondral support system and method of use of same for providing structural and dampening support to damaged subchondral bone adjacent to a body joint are disclosed. The joint support and subchondral support system and method of use of same are applicable to many parts of the joint as any area with cartilage disease has an adjoining subchondral component.

Abstract: An orthopaedic prosthesis includes a curved outer surface configured to abut a patient's bone when the orthopaedic prosthesis is implanted therein. The outer surface may or may not be electrically conductive. A channel is defined in the outer surface in which one or more electrical conductors are positioned. A switch is positioned at a first location on the outer surface and is configured to establish an electrical connection between the electrical conductor and the outer surface (e.g., an electrical trace) and/or another electrical conductor when the first location of the outer surface is pressed against the patient's bone. The switch may be embodied as an end of the electrical conductor or a more complex switch such as a push-button type switch.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and devices for repairing articular surfaces. The articular surface repairs are customizable or highly selectable by patient and geared toward providing optimal fit and function.

Abstract: Femoral heads, mobile inserts, acetabular components, and modular junctions for orthopedic implants, e.g., hip replacement implants, and methods of using femoral heads, mobile inserts, acetabular components, and modular junctions for orthopedic implants are provided. Prosthetic femoral heads, mobile inserts, and acetabular components are provided that can alleviate soft tissue impingement, reduce implant wear, and/or reduce frictional torque. Modular junctions are provided that can minimize the incidence of loosening and micromotion that can occur at modular junctions of orthopedic implants.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a prosthetic is disclosed. Soft tissue attachment pads having porous metal attachment regions and suture accepting holes are selectively positioned onto an implantable prosthetic to provide coupling locations.

Abstract: A bone joint repair and replacement assembly. A first portion comprising a bone plate is configured to attach to a distal or proximal end of a bone proximate the joint, generally coaxially with an axis defined by the bone. A second portion comprising an articular surface is configured to attach to the first portion, generally normal with respect to the axis, and inserted into the joint. Although versions of the assembly can be configured for use with several different pivotal joints, the invention is particularly suitable for full or partial replacement of an elbow, wherein the articular surface is pivotally attached to the first portion. Another embodiment of the invention is provided to repair a fractured bone head proximate the joint, and still another embodiment of the invention is provided to repair rotator cuff-related shoulder injuries.

Abstract: This invention is directed to orthopedic implants and systems. The invention also relates to methods of implant design, manufacture, modeling and implantation as well as to surgical tools and kits used therewith. The implants are designed by analyzing the articular surface to be corrected and creating a device with an anatomic or near anatomic fit; or selecting a pre-designed implant having characteristics that give the implant the best fit to the existing defect.

Abstract: A spacer formed of an intermetallic compound, such as nitinol. The spacer includes two segments shaped in opposing arches. The unique properties of the intermetallic compound enable the material to be deformed into a planar, insertable shape when the material is cooled below a transition temperature and returns to the undeformed shape when the material returns to an ambient, operational temperature. An expansion mechanism assembly can engage with the spacer to apply an expansion force. The expansion force extends the spacer longitudinally drawing the spacer into the planar configuration. The expansion mechanism assembly can be used to guide the spacer into the desired position within the patient. The spacer control mechanism assembly is subsequently removed, relieving the expansion force. The spacer returns to the natural undeformed shape as it returns to body temperature. Retention features can be integrated in the spacer to aid in retaining the spacer in location.

Abstract: The invention relates to a base platform (11) for an artificial joint, in particular for an artificial shoulder joint, wherein the platform can be anchored on the bone and serves as a support for an artificial joint component (15, 17) that can be provided both in the form of a shell component (15) for an anatomical configuration and also in the form of a ball component (17) for an inverse configuration, and wherein different joint components can be mounted on the platform.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus of providing a joint replacement parts with a pharmaceutical delivery system is provided. The pharmaceutical delivery system is placed within the joint replacement parts to provide, over a period of time, sustained release of a controlled concentration of pharmaceuticals within the joint space of the joint replacement and to produce a local or systemic physiological of pharmacological effect.

Abstract: Prosthetic artificial joints are described, including hip, knee and shoulder joints. In some embodiments, an artificial joint prosthesis includes: a bone-facing surface of a artificial joint prosthesis, the bone-facing surface configured to face a bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; a first component of the artificial joint prosthesis including a contact surface of the artificial joint prosthesis, the first component fabricated from at least one polymer and a plurality of magnetic particles; and a second component of the artificial joint prosthesis including at least one magnet configured to create a magnetic field within the artificial joint, the at least one magnet positioned to form a magnetic field directed to influence a location of debris including the magnetic particles in the joint to a position distinct from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo.

Abstract: Artificial joint prostheses, including hip, knee and shoulder joints, are described. In some aspects, an artificial joint prosthesis includes: a bone-facing surface of an artificial joint prosthesis, the bone-facing surface configured to face a bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; a non-contact surface of the artificial joint prosthesis, the non-contact surface adjacent to the bone-facing surface of the artificial joint prosthesis; at least one fluid deflection structure attached to the non-contact surface, the fluid deflection structure positioned to direct a flow of synovial fluid away from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; and at least one particle retaining structure positioned to contact the directed flow of synovial fluid and configured to retain particles present within the synovial fluid.

Abstract: In alternative embodiments, the invention provides products (articles) of manufacture comprising nanostructures such as nanotubes having a surface comprising tantalum. In alternative embodiments, products of manufacture of the invention include nanostructures, e.g., nanotubes, nanowire, nanopore, and the like comprising a surface layer of tantalum. In alternative embodiments, products or articles of manufacture of the invention are bioimplants, and the tantalum-surface-coated nanostructures of the invention provide increased bioactivity and bone forming ability. In alternative embodiments, products or articles of manufacture of the invention, e.g., bioimplants, comprising the tantalum-surface-coated nanostructures of the invention are used for in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo testing, implants, biomedical devices and therapeutics.

Abstract: Prosthetic artificial joints are described, including hip, knee and shoulder joints.

Abstract: An implant can comprise a porous region including a plurality of interconnecting interstitial cells configured to receive bone or biological tissue ingrowth. The porous region can be formed of a first portion, including a first plurality of the interconnecting interstitial cells and having a first density, and a second portion, including a second plurality of the interconnecting interstitial cells and having a second density different than the first density. The plurality of interconnecting interstitial cells can form a framework onto which a material can be disposed in different amounts to provide the first and second densities of the first and second portions, respectively. The second density can be selected and configured to provide greater bone or biological tissue ingrowth than the first density. The first and second density can be selected and configured to substantially match an anisotropic property of a body component the implant is intended to replace or augment.

Abstract: Artificial joint prosthetic components including synovial fluid deflection structures are described. Embodiments of artificial joint prosthesis include those with: a bone-facing surface of a artificial joint prosthesis, the bone-facing surface configured to face a bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; a non-contact surface of the artificial joint prosthesis; and at least one fluid deflection structure positioned on the non-contact surface, the fluid deflection structure positioned to deflect synovial fluid away from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo.

Abstract: Prosthetic artificial joints are described, including hip, knee and shoulder joints. In some embodiments, a artificial joint prosthesis includes: a bone-facing surface of a artificial joint prosthesis, the bone-facing surface configured to face a bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; a non-contact surface of the artificial joint prosthesis, the non-contact surface adjacent to the bone-facing surface of the artificial joint prosthesis; at least one fluid deflection structure positioned adjacent to the non-contact surface, the fluid deflection structure positioned to deflect synovial fluid away from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo; and a mechanism attached to the fluid deflection structure, the mechanism operable to move the fluid deflection structure to direct synovial fluid away from the bone-prosthesis interface in vivo.

Abstract: An arthroplasty device is provided having an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogel that is strain-hardened by swelling and adapted to be held in place in a joint by conforming to a bone geometry. The strain-hardened IPN hydrogel is based on two different networks: (1) a non-silicone network of preformed hydrophilic non-ionic telechelic macromonomers chemically cross-linked by polymerization of its end-groups, and (2) a non-silicone network of ionizable monomers. The second network was polymerized and chemically cross-linked in the presence of the first network and has formed physical cross-links with the first network. Within the IPN, the degree of chemical cross-linking in the second network is less than in the first network. An aqueous salt solution (neutral pH) is used to ionize and swell the second network. The swelling of the second network is constrained by the first network resulting in an increase in effective physical cross-links within the IPN.

Abstract: A prosthetic joint includes: (a) a first member including a bone-implantable surface, comprising rigid material, and including a body having a cantilevered perimeter flange that defines a wear-resistant, concave first contact surface having a protruding rim and a recessed central portion; (b) a second member including a bone-implantable surface and comprising rigid material with a wear-resistant, convex second contact surface; (c) where the contact surfaces bear directly against each other, transferring axial and lateral loads between the members, while allowing pivoting motion therebetween; (d) wherein the flange is shaped and sized so as to deform elastically, permitting the first contact surface to conform in an irregular shape to the second contact surface when the joint is loaded; and (e) wherein at least one of the bone-implantable surfaces includes at least one mechanical feature configured to maintain the associated member in a specific position and/or orientation relative to bone.

Abstract: A parallel kinematically redundant device includes a base body portion and a movable portion. The movable portion includes first, second, and third joints. A first actuator is coupled to the first joint of the movable portion and to the base body portion. A second actuator is coupled in parallel with the first actuator between the second joint of the movable portion and the base body portion. A linking member is rotationally coupled to the third joint of the movable portion to provide an output for the first and second actuators. A housing is coupled to the base body portion and fits onto a user. A prosthetic joint device includes a base portion and a movable portion. An actuator is rotationally coupled to the movable portion and base portion. A compliant element is coupled in parallel with the actuator between the movable portion and base portion.

Abstract: An assembly system configured to seat a first orthopedic component having either a male taper or a female taper with a second orthopedic component having the other of a male taper or a female taper. In one embodiment, the assembly system includes a taper seating connector having a fastener and a bushing moveable retained on the fastener. The fastener may be connected to the first orthopedic component and the bushing may be positioned adjacent the second orthopedic component. The corresponding tapers on the first and second orthopedic components may be configured to secure the first and second orthopedic components together. Thus, by exerting a sufficient force on the bushing, the bushing will move along the fastener, transferring the force to the second orthopedic component. In this manner, the corresponding tapers of the first and second orthopedic components may be seated.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an orthopedic implant that may be used to repair and/or replace focal defects in an individual's articular cartilage. In one exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a unitary orthopedic implant that includes a bone contacting layer and an articulating layer. In exemplary embodiments, the bone contacting layer may have a thickness of between about 1 millimeter and 3 millimeters. In exemplary embodiments, the articulating layer may have a thickness of between about 1 millimeter and 2 millimeters. As a result, the orthopedic implant may have an overall thickness of between about 2 millimeters and about 5 millimeters.

Abstract: A seal for preventing a bodily fluid from penetrating an orthopedic implant comprising a tapered section adapted to conformingly mate to a stem of a first implant component, and a collar section extending from and circumferentially surrounding a portion of the tapered section, the collar section adapted to mate to a base of a second implant component such that the tapered section and collar section define an opening therethrough configured to receive the first implant component.

Abstract: A spacer block for gathering data to be used in the balancing of the joint arthroplasty or repair and in the selection of a trial insert which includes a first body piece and a second body piece. A plurality of sensors and a processor are positioned between the first body piece and the second body piece when the pieces are assembled together to form the spacer block. A chim is removably mounted to a top surface of the second body piece, the chim is associated with the plurality of sensors and positioned in relation to the plurality of sensors such that a force exerted on the chim by a weight bearing surface is detected by the plurality of sensors.

Abstract: A prosthetic joint includes: (a) a first member comprising rigid material and having a perimeter flange defined by an undercut groove, the flange defining a wear-resistant first contact surface having a protruding rim; (b) a second member comprising rigid material and having a perimeter flange defined by an undercut groove, the flange defining a wear-resistant, second contact surface having a protruding rim; and (c) a third member comprising rigid material positioned between the first and second members, the third member defining opposed wear-resistant third and fourth contact surfaces; (d) wherein the first and second contact surfaces bear against the third and fourth contact surfaces, to transfer loads through the member, while allowing pivoting motion between the first and second members; (e) wherein the flanges can deform elastically such that the first and second contact surfaces conform to the third and fourth contact surfaces.

Abstract: Methods of therapeutically treating osteoarthritis in a joint are disclosed. These methods aim to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis of a joint by treating the subchondral bone to heal, or delay the onset or progression of, bone marrow edema or lesions in the subchondral bone region of the joint. Associated devices and instruments for such subchondral treatment are also provided.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes an intramedullary osteosynthesis or arthrodesis implant including a central body, a first pair of legs extending from the central body to a pair of leg tips, and a second pair of legs extending from the central body, in a direction opposite the first pair of legs, to a pair of leg tips such that the central body, first pair of legs and second pair of legs are positioned alongside a longitudinal axis.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed relating improved articular models, implant components, and related guide tools and procedures. In addition, methods and devices are disclosed relating articular models, implant components, and/or related guide tools and procedures that include one or more features derived from patient-data, for example, images of the patient's joint. The data can be used to create a model for analyzing a patient's joint and to devise and evaluate a course of corrective action. The data also can be used to create patient-adapted implant components and related tools and procedures.

Abstract: A biologic diarthrodial joint includes an artificial subchondral bone shaped in the form of a joint replacement member and formed of an artificial fiber material. The artificial fiber material includes synthetic fibers formed in a fibrous network with the synthetic fibers arranged in multiple orientations. The artificial subchondral bone includes a polymer receiving component. An artificial cartilage polymer is cooperable with the artificial subchondral bone and engages the polymer receiving component. The artificial cartilage polymer has physical properties similar to that of native articular cartilage.

Abstract: This invention includes malleable, biodegradable, fibrous compositions for application to a tissue site in order to promote or facilitate new tissue growth. One aspect of this invention is a fibrous component that provides unique mechanical and physical properties. The invention may be created by providing a vessel containing a slurry, said slurry comprising a plurality of natural or synthetic polymer fibers and at least one suspension fluid, wherein the polymer fibers are substantially evenly dispersed and randomly oriented throughout the volume of the suspension fluid; applying a force, e.g., centrifugal, to said vessel containing said slurry, whereupon said force serves to cause said polymer fibers to migrate through the suspension fluid and amass at a furthest extent of the vessel, forming a polymer material, with said polymer material comprising polymer fibers of sufficient length and sufficiently viscous, interlaced, or interlocked to retard dissociation of said polymer fibers.

Abstract: A prosthetic joint module to provide a variety of motions and functions similar to human joint systems during rigorous activities. The joint module includes a housing component attached to a proximal prosthetic device, an elastomeric polymer attached to the housing component and a yoke component attached to the elastomeric polymer and to a distal prosthetic device. The yoke component and distal prosthetic device are moved relative to the housing component and proximal prosthetic device causing the elastomeric polymer to distort. This distortion allows the joint module to flex, and absorb, capture, store and return the energy from the movement to of the yoke component.

Abstract: Apparatuses, kits, and methods for cementing an orthopedic implant to a bone, post attachment, are disclosed in some aspects of the present disclosure. A kit can include a prosthetic component and a cement applicator. The prosthetic component can include an attachment profile that corresponds to a mating profile formed on or in a bone. The cement applicator can be configured to apply a bone cement between the bone and the prosthetic component following alignment between the prosthetic component and the bone or another prosthetic component. The kit can also include a bone cement. A method can include positioning the prosthetic component adjacent to the bone, aligning the prosthetic component relative to the bone or another prosthetic component, and applying a bone cement between the bone and the aligned prosthetic component.

Abstract: A joint prosthesis for mounting in a first bone and presenting a prosthetic joint surface for engaging an opposing joint surface of a second bone, the joint prosthesis comprising: a sleeve which is adapted for partial disposition in an opening formed in the first bone; a center adapter which is adapted for disposition within the sleeve; and a prosthetic joint surface mounted to the center adapter; wherein the disposition of the center adapter is adjustable, both longitudinally and rotationally, relative to the sleeve, so that the disposition of the prosthetic joint surface is adjustable, both longitudinally and rotationally, relative to the opposing joint surface of the second bone.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implantable device fixed or interlinked to bone, which generates unidirectional movement by a member generating reciprocating motion in the same direction using means allowing unidirectional movement. In the device, the means allowing unidirectional movement comprise means based on friction which make line contact.

Abstract: Implantable assemblies/devices and methods are provided for manipulating energy transferred by members defining an articulating anatomical joint, wherein the members collectively define a path of motion. Assemblies/devices are provided with a first component configured to be attached to a first anatomical member of the anatomical joint, a second component configured to be attached to a second anatomical member of the anatomical joint; and a tension member joining the first and second components. The tension member is placed under tension to absorb energy transferred by the anatomical members when the first component is attached to the first anatomical member and the second component is attached to the second anatomical member and a distance between locations of attachment of the first and second components becomes smaller then an implant-defined distance between the locations.

Abstract: Implantable assemblies/devices and methods are provided for manipulating energy transferred by members defining an articulating anatomical joint, wherein the members collectively define a path of motion. Assemblies/devices are provided with a first component configured to be attached to a first anatomical member of the anatomical joint, a second component configured to be attached to a second anatomical member of the anatomical joint, and a tension member joining the first and second components. The tension member is placed under tension to absorb energy transferred by the anatomical members when the first component is attached to the first anatomical member and the second component is attached to the second anatomical member and a distance between locations of attachment of the first and second components becomes smaller then an implant-defined distance between the locations.

Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of an improved joint prosthesis that can provide the option to improve initial stability without removing the implant or altering the preparation. Embodiments of improved joint implant components can comprise one or more expandable, hollow segmented posts. Methods of implant fixation are also disclosed. Disclosed methods can provide the opportunity for establishing initial biologic fixation (bone ingrowth), and can also provide an adjunct fixation through injecting cement down the center of the post if initial stability is not achieved or is questionable.

Abstract: Methods of using cartilage implant devices are provided. The methods include locating articular cartilage having a lesion, and utilizing an implant having dimensions compatible with the lesion. The method further includes forming a cavity in the articular cartilage, subchondral bone, and cancellous bond, and engaging the implant with the cavity so that the lower face of the articular end of the implant abuts against the subchondral bone, and the stem of the implant abuts against the cancellous bone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of modifying a surface characteristic (e.g., wear resistance and/or corrosion resistance) of a cobalt-chromium based alloy article. The method comprises plasma treating the article at a temperature in the range of from 300° C. to 700° C. and at a pressure of from 100 Pa to 1500 Pa for 1 hour to 50 hours in an atmosphere comprising at least one carbon-containing gas, whereby to introduce carbon into a surface region of said article. The present invention also resides in a surface-hardened cobalt-chromium based article producible by the method of the invention. The article is characterised by having a surface region comprising a supersaturated solid solution of carbon in cobalt or a surface region comprising a supersaturated solid solution of carbon in cobalt and chromium carbides. Surface hardened articles producible by the method of the invention include medical implants and engineering components.

Abstract: An implant for fixation of first and second bones having a body with first and second axially spaced ends and an outer surface at least nominally matched to a tapered surface around a receptacle formed by rotating a cutting element around an axis. As the body is advanced along the central axis into an operative position within the receptacle, the body outer surface and tapered surface cooperate to cause the central and second axes to consistently substantially align. A plurality of openings in the body each accepts a fastener.

Abstract: Processes of fabricating at least one graft contact surface and other surface topographies on an interbody spinal implant, such as a solid-body or composite implant. The graft contact surface as one or more of the internal surfaces of the implant includes at least one ridge or groove, for example, which is designed to contact and promote retention and stabilization of bone growth-inducing materials placed within the internal openings of the implant body. In addition, the ridges or grooves may influence the biological processes to promote bone healing and fusion.

Abstract: A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones.

Abstract: A bone graft implant device for treating a tissue site is provided, the device including an implant body including a demineralized allograft bone material portion, and at least one engagement member protruding from the implant body including a mineralized allograft bone material portion. The engagement member may be integrally formed with the implant body, or alternatively, the implant body may include an aperture and the engagement member may be insertable therein. At least one of the amount of demineralization or area of the demineralized allograft bone material portion is adjustable to impart a desired flexibility to the implant body.

Abstract: A medical prosthesis for use within the body which is formed of radiation treated ultra high molecular weight polyethylene having substantially no detectable free radicals, is described. Preferred prostheses exhibit reduced production of particles from the prosthesis during wear of the prosthesis, and are substantially oxidation resistant. Methods of manufacture of such devices and material used therein are also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and devices for repairing articular surfaces. The articular surface repairs are customizable or highly selectable by patient and geared toward providing optimal fit and function.