Abstract: An implant having a porous tissue ingrowth structure and a bearing support structure is disclosed. The implant includes a metal insert having a bone ingrowth structure, an intermediate structure and a bearing support structure. A bearing surface is formed from a polymer material and attached to the bearing support structure. The intermediate structure has a porosity sufficient to inhibit the polymer material from translating through the bearing support structure to the bone ingrowth structure.

Abstract: A prosthetic component suitable for trialing or long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component includes at least one sensor for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system or a biological parameter is disclosed. The prosthetic component comprises a conductive material. Electronic circuitry and sensors are housed within the prosthetic component. Data from the prosthetic component can be transmitted to a remote system. The prosthetic component can comprise steel, titanium, cobalt, an alloy, or other conductive material. At least a portion of the conductive material comprising the prosthetic component is coupled to ground to shield the sensor from parasitic coupling that can affect measurement accuracy. The prosthetic component can have an opening in the shield to allow sensing or transmission of data.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making highly crystalline cross-linked polymeric material, for example, highly crystalline cross-linked ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The invention also provides methods of making antioxidant-doped highly crystalline cross-linked polymeric material using high pressure and high temperature crystallization processes, medical implants made thereof, and materials used therein.

Abstract: Solid-state deformation processing of crosslinked high molecular weight polymers such as UHMWPE, for example by extrusion below the melt transition, produces materials with a combination of high tensile strength and high oxidative stability. The materials are especially suitable for use as bearing components in artificial hip and other implants. Treated bulk materials are anisotropic, with enhanced strength oriented along the axial direction. The material is oxidatively stable even after four weeks of accelerated aging in a pressure vessel containing five atmospheres of oxygen (ASTM F2003). Because of its oxidative stability, the deformation processed material is a suitable candidate for air-permeable packaging and gas sterilization, which has thus far been reserved for remelted crosslinked UHMWPE.

Abstract: There is disclosed a gold surface for the catalytic release of hydrogen from an alkane thiol. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a large surface area of gold on a carbon fiber scaffold that does not contain any sublayers of metals that can block the catalytic release of hydrogen from alkane thiols or form other reactions that remove the sulfur moiety from alkane thiol. There is further disclosed a method for forming a gold surface onto woven carbon fiber sheets wherein no sublayer or other intermediate material is used.

Abstract: A pre-operative planning and manufacturing method for orthopedic surgery includes obtaining pre-operative medical image data representing a joint portion of a patient. The method also includes constructing a three-dimensional digital model of the joint portion and manufacturing a patient-specific alignment guide for the joint portion from the three-dimensional digital model of the joint portion when the image data is sufficient to construct the three-dimensional digital model of the joint portion. The patient-specific alignment guide has a three-dimensional patient-specific surface pre-operatively configured to nest and closely conform to a corresponding surface of the joint portion of the patient in only one position relative to the joint portion. The method further includes determining, from the image data, a size of a non-custom implant to be implanted in the patient and manufacturing the non-custom implant when there is insufficient image data to construct the patient-specific alignment guide therefrom.

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: A method and device for finding isometric points in the joints of mammals for use in surgical repair of a joint. Isometric points are first identified in radiographic or other two dimensional images and then located in the actual joint. A method for repairing a cruciate ligament-deficient canine stifle employing the method and device for finding isometric points is described. A method and apparatus for locating the axis of rotation of a joint is also described.

Abstract: Methods for performing a hemiarthroplasty procedure. In some implementations, the method may comprise providing a component of an endoprosthesis, such as a femoral component of a hip prosthesis. The component may comprise a silicon nitride ceramic material, and may further comprise a coated articulating surface. The coated articulating surface may comprise a coating configured to reduce a coefficient of friction of the articulating surface. The method may further comprise positioning the endoprosthesis such that the coated articulating surface is positioned adjacent to a patient's native articular cartilage. In this manner, the coated articulating surface may articulate with the native articular cartilage following the procedure.

Abstract: An elastomeric artificial joint and prosthesis system combining motion preservation and shock absorption through the interaction of core and endplate components. The core is comprised of: a “hub” having congruent concavity with the endplate surface allowing for rotation, translation, flexion and extension, orbital, lateral bending, and compression motion similar to that of a joint or natural intervertebral disc; a “flange” attached to the hub and able to move congruently with the hub, and having negative spaces providing an internal structure for an elastomer; and a bio-compatible elastomer casted around and through the flange providing shock absorption. The endplate has a low-friction surface and engages the elastomer, and a structural component that engages the vertebral endplate or bone surface. The device has medical applications such as in total joint arthroplasty, disc replacement, and industrial applications such as in robotics that are modeled to move similar to human anatomical motion.

Abstract: A method of pressure forming a brown part from metal and/or ceramic particle feedstocks includes: introducing into a mold cavity or extruder a first feedstock and one or more additional feedstocks or a green or brown state insert made from a feedstock, wherein the different feedstocks correspond to the different portions of the part; pressurizing the mold cavity or extruder to produce a preform having a plurality of portions corresponding to the first and one or more additional feedstocks, and debinding the preform. Micro voids and interstitial paths from the interior of the preform part to the exterior allow the escape of decomposing or subliming backbone component substantially without creating macro voids due to internal pressure. The large brown preform may then be sintered and subsequently thermomechanically processed to produce a net wrought microstructure and properties that are substantially free the interstitial spaces.

Abstract: A human or animal joint is treated by introduction of a device between the suitably prepared articulating surfaces of the joint, and the device is anchored in both these articular surfaces with a material having thermoplastic properties. For allowing at least limited articulation of the joint after implantation, the device includes two articulating portions, wherein one of the articulating portions is anchored in each articulating surfaces of the joint. On implantation a proximal face of the device is contacted with a vibrating tool and the vibration is transmitted through parts of the device to locations in which the material having thermoplastic properties is near the bone tissue of the articulating surfaces of the joint and in which liquefaction is desired.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a joint augmentation implant in the form of an elastomeric polymer cap for the ball portion of a ball and socket joint such as a hip or shoulder. The cap is adapted to swell in the presence of synovial fluid and to supplement or replace native cartilage. The disclosure also relates to methods of use of the joint augmentation implant.

Abstract: A joint prosthesis comprises a first component having a bearing surface and a second component having a bearing surface arranged to articulate with the bearing surface of the first component, said bearing surfaces of the first and the second component thus forming a bearing couple. The bearing surfaces consist of a silicon carbide whisker reinforced alumina. Thus, a bearing couple with low wear, low friction and high hardness is provided.

Abstract: Substrates for joints for orthopaedic implants are described, wherein at least one of the sliding surfaces of non-ferrous metal alloys, in particular of cobalt, chromium, molybdenum alloys, has a coating consisting of niobium nitride nanolayers alternating with chromium nitride nanolayers, the lot being protected by a chromium nitride microlayer.

Abstract: An implant stabilizes two adjacent bones of a joint, while enabling a natural kinematic relative movement of the bones. Support components are connected to each bone of the joint, and a flexible core is interposed between them. The core and at least one of the support components are provided with a smooth sliding surface upon which the core and support component may slide relative to each other, enabling a corresponding movement of the bones. The surfaces may have a mating curvature, to mimic a natural movement of the joint. The core is resilient, and may bend or compress, enabling the bones to move towards each other, and or to bend relative to each other.

Abstract: A method and system for performing a total joint arthroplasty procedure on a patient's damaged bone region. A CT image or other suitable image is formed of the damaged bone surfaces, and location coordinate values (xn,yn,zn) are determined for a selected sequence of bone surface locations using the CT image data. A mathematical model z=f(x,y) of a surface that accurately matches the bone surface coordinates at the selected bone spice locations, or matches surface normal vector components at selected bone surface locations, is determined. The model provides a production file from which a cutting jig and an implant device (optional), each patient-specific and having controllable alignment, are fabricated for the damaged bone by automated processing.

Abstract: The present invention provides, among other things, multilayer film coating compositions, coated substrates and methods thereof. In some embodiments, a structure includes a first and second layer-by-layer film disposes on a substrate, the structure being characterized in that layer-by-layer removal of at least the second film releases at least one polypeptide, and also may permit release of ions from the ceramic material so that a synergetic effect of the osteoinduction and osteoconduction of the structure is achieved.

Abstract: A data transmission system connected to a bone implant has an extra-corporeally arranged external transmitting unit an implantable internal first receiving unit adapted to be actuated by the external transmitting unit. An internal transmitting unit is adapted to be coupled and implanted to the implant. A second transmission section is located between the external transmitting unit and the internal first receiving unit, via which the internal transmitting unit is actuated. A second receiving unit and a first transmission section is located between the internal transmitting unit and the second receiving unit. The first transmission section operates with acoustic vibrations or waves.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthesis comprising a first component (10) and a second component (60), wherein the first and second components have respective inter-engaging parts (24,64) and wherein at least one of the first or second components comprises an anti-rotational element (32,66) configured to resist rotational movement between the inter-engaging parts and wherein the inter-engaging parts share an axis of rotation such that they are engageable in a plurality of relatively rotated positions and wherein the axis of rotation of the inter-engaging part of one of the first or second components is parallel to but offset from a central axis of said first or second component.

Abstract: Implantable biomaterials, particularly hydrogel substrates with porous surfaces, and methods for enhancing the compatibility of biomaterials with living tissue, and for causing physical attachment between biomaterials and living tissues are provided. Also provided are implants suitable for load-bearing surfaces in hard tissue repair, replacement, or augmentation, and to methods of their use. One embodiment of the invention relates to an implantable spinal disc prosthesis.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention is directed to compositions and methods for enhancing attachment of soft tissues to a metal prosthetic device. In one embodiment a construct is provided comprising a metal implant having a porous metal region, wherein said porous region exhibits a nano-textured surface.

Abstract: Systems and methods for shaping and filling offset bone voids during revision procedures of total knee replacements are disclosed. The systems disclosed herein generally include an intramedullary reamer, an offset driver, a cylindrical reaming tool, an offset reaming guide, and a conical reamer. An alternate embodiment of the system may also generally include an IM reamer, an offset driver, an offset broaching tool, and a second stage broaching tool. Yet another embodiment may generally include an elongate IM reamer, a cone reamer, a reamer guide shaft, a cone trial, a sizing template, a template guide, an offset lobe reamer, and offset lobe reamer retainer. Metaphyseal reconstruction devices and void filling cones can be used to fill the bone voids in conjunction with the systems and methods disclosed herein.

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.

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.

Abstract: Systems and methods for implant optimization using intra-operative scanning are set forth. According to one embodiment, a method comprising intraoperatively scanning a joint surface, processing the scan and creating a three-dimensional computer model, performing simulations with the three-dimensional computer model, determining an optimal implant attribute from analysis of the simulations, selecting an optimal implant, determining an ideal positioning and orientation of the selected implant relative to scanned anatomical features, rapidly creating a patient-matched guide to facilitate bone surface preparation in order to achieve ideal positioning and orientation of the selected implant, preparing the surface using the patient matched guide, and implanting the optimal implant is set forth.

Abstract: A method for producing an artificial bone capable of accurate molding at a joined part with appropriate strength, in which electromagnetic waves or electron beams are irradiated to a layer of at least type of powder selected from metal biomaterials, ceramics for the artificial bone and plastic resins for the artificial bone based on image data corresponding to a shape of the artificial bone, thereby effecting sintering or melting, and the thus sintered layer or melted and solidified layer is laminated, such that a surface finish step is adopted that inner faces and/or outer faces of both ends and their vicinities configuring the joined part to a human bone part are polished by a rotating tool based on the image data and also irradiation of electromagnetic waves or electron beams at both ends and their vicinities constituting the joined part is set greater than that at other regions.

Abstract: Polycrystalline diamond compacts for use in artificial joints achieve reduced corrosion and improved biocompatibility through the use of solvent metal formulations containing tin and through the control of solvent metal pore size, particularly in inner layers of the compact. Solvent metal formulations containing tin have been discovered which provide sintering ability, part strength, and grind resistance comparable to levels achieved by using CoCrMo solvent metals. It has been discovered that limiting the solvent metal pore size in the diamond layers minimizes or eliminates the occurrence of micro cracks in the solvent metal and significantly reduces the corrosion of the compact as manifested by the release of heavy metal ions from the compact. Polycrystalline diamond compacts which utilize both the solvent metal formulations containing tin and the control of pore sizes achieve significantly reduced corrosion and improved biocompatibility compared to prior art polycrystalline diamond compacts.

Abstract: A mechanical capstan amplifier. The mechanical capstan amplifier (60) having a first tensioner (64) with a first actuatmg rod (72) extending therefrom. The first tensioner (64) is configured to rotate the first actuating rod (72). The amplifier (60) also includes a drive motor (62) having a drive rod (78) extending therefrom. The drive motor (62) is configured to rotate the drive rod (78). A first cord (66), extending between the first actuating rod (72) and a first load to be moved also extends at least partially around the drive rod (78). Actuation of the first tensioner (64) causes the first cord (66) to tighten around the drive rod (78) and moves the load.

Abstract: The present invention provides an implant, which is used to fix an artificial joint in bone, including a biodegradable magnesium alloy.

Abstract: An implant designed e.g. as a replacement for an articulating surface of a human or animal joint is secured to the bone tissue with the aid of a plurality of fasteners (3). The implant (2) comprises a bone side to be brought into contact with the bone tissue, which bone side is equipped with a plurality of fastening structures restricted to this bone side. The fasteners (3) comprise a distal and a proximal side, wherein the distal side is equipped for being anchored in bone tissue and the proximal side is equipped for being connected with one of the fastening structures of the implant (2). The distal sides of the fasteners (3) are anchored in the bone tissue of the appropriately prepared bone and the implant (2) is then attached to the anchored fasteners (3) by connecting the fastening structures with the proximal sides of the fasteners (3), wherein the implant (2) is pressed against the proximal sides of the anchored fasteners (3).

Abstract: A substantially cup-shaped prosthetic device for a joint is provided. The prosthetic device includes an outer surface configured to operatively engage at least one of a first bone of the joint and a component, an inner surface including at least a portion configured to connect to a second bone of the joint, and at least one reservoir having an opening at each of the inner surface and the outer surface and extending therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to a Staphylococcus aureus glucosaminidase and inhibits in vivo growth of S. aureus. Also disclosed are monoclonal antibody binding portions, recombinant or hybridoma cell lines, pharmaceutical compositions containing the monoclonal antibody or binding portions thereof, and methods of treating 5*. aureus infection and osteomyelitis, and methods for introducing an orthopedic implant into a patient using the monoclonal antibody, binding portion, or pharmaceutical composition of the present invention.

Abstract: Methods, compositions, and kits for adhering polymers and other materials to another material, and in particular to bone or bone-like structures or surfaces. A composition of matter includes a urethane dimethacrylate-methyl methacrylate copolymer with a plurality of first polymer regions based on urethane dimethacrylate and a plurality of second polymer regions based on methyl methacrylate. The method includes placing an orthopedic joint implant having an attachment surface in a joint space, applying a first non-urethane-containing precursor, a second urethane-containing precursor, and a initiator to the attachment surface; contacting the first and second precursors and the initiator with the joint surface; and copolymerizing the first and second precursors and forming an adhesive copolymer and attaching the implant to the joint.

Abstract: A modular prosthesis system for replacement of a head portion of a radius. The prosthesis system includes a head component having a first connection portion that connects to a second connection portion and a collar component having the second connection portion and a third connection portion. The system also includes a stem component including a fourth connection portion that connects with the third connection portion, the stem component having a stem anchoring portion that connects to the radius. The collar component provides the modular geometry to the prosthesis without having to have an increased number of head components and stem components with variable lengths and angles.

Abstract: A cast base for biomedical use, which is formed of a cobalt-chromium based alloy and has excellent diffusion hardening treatability, characterized by containing 0.1 mass % or greater of nitrogen (N) and having a volume fraction of an fcc (face centered cubic lattice) phase in the metallic structure thereof of 50% or greater. Even in the case of subjecting the aforesaid cobalt-chromium based alloy cast base in the as-cast state, the structure of which is liable to be non-uniform, to a diffusion hardening treatment, it is possible to obtain a sliding alloy member for biomedical use, wherein a uniform hardened layer has been formed, by the diffusion hardening treatment. Thus, a sliding alloy member for biomedical use and so on, which can stably and continuously exhibit high strength, excellent abrasion resistance and, moreover, excellent corrosion resistance, can be provided.

Abstract: At least one embodiment is directed to an insert for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system. The insert can be temporary or permanent. In one embodiment, the insert is prosthetic component for a single compartment of the knee. The insert comprises a support structure and a support structure respectively having an articular surface and a load-bearing surface. At least one of the support structures comprises polycarbonate. The polycarbonate allows short-range transmission of measurement data. The height of the insert is less than 10 millimeters. At least one internal cavity is formed when support structures are coupled together for housing electronic circuitry, sensors, and the power source. The internal cavity is isolated from the external environment and can be hermetically sealed.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for improving the performance of articulating prostheses. Some embodiments may comprise a first component comprising a first articulating surface and a second component comprising a second articulating surface configured for articulating with the first articulating surface. One or both of the first and second components may comprise a silicon nitride ceramic material. One or both of the first and second articulating surfaces may comprise a coating that is configured to accomplish at least one of increasing the hardness of the first articulating interface surface, reducing the coefficient of friction between the first and second articulating surfaces, decreasing the effects of wearing between the first and second articulating surfaces, and decreasing the intensity of audible noises produced by the endoprosthesis resulting from articulation between the first and second articulating surfaces during use.

Abstract: An operation assisting system. When an operator manipulates an operation instrument to perform an operation for a joint surgery including a hip replacement, the operation assisting system provides the operator with information on the orientation of a bone such as a pelvis and an appropriate direction of the operation instrument relative to the bone to assist the operator so as to complete the operation in an easy and accurate manner, which ensures a high degree of operation accuracy and reduces the cost of the system.

Abstract: A silicon nitride porous tissue engineering scaffold is fabricated from a silicon-based fiber that is converted to silicon nitride through a reaction at elevated temperatures in a nitrogen environment. Porosity in the form of interconnected pore space is provided by the pore space between the fiber material in a porous matrix. The silicon nitride porous tissue engineering scaffold can be formed from raw materials that are a precursor to silicon nitride. The silicon nitride porous tissue engineering scaffold supports tissue in-growth to provide osteoconductivity as a biocompatible tissue scaffold used as an implantable medical device for the repair of damaged and/or diseased bone tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a first portion configured to be coupled to a first bony structure and a second portion configured to be coupled between the first portion and a second bony structure. The second bony structure is disposed opposite the first bony structure. The apparatus further includes a transducer coupled between the first portion and the second portion.

Abstract: Implants for forming a positive connection with human or animal parts include a material, such as thermoplastics and thixotropic materials, that can be liquefied by means of mechanical energy. The implants are brought into contact with the tissue part, are subjected to the action of ultrasonic energy while being pressed against the tissue part. The liquefiable material liquefies and is pressed into openings or surface asperities of the tissue part so that, once solidified, the implant is positively joined thereto. The implantation involves the use of an implantation device that includes a generator, an oscillating element, and a resonator. The generator causes the oscillating element to mechanically oscillate, and the element transmits the oscillations to the resonator. The resonator is used to press the implant against the tissue part to transmit oscillations to the implant.

Abstract: A coating for a CoCrMo substrate including a first layer located directly on the substrate and including Ta(CoCrMo)0.5-2.0, a second layer located directly on the first layer and including tantalum, a third layer located directly on the second layer and including tantalum carbide, and a fourth layer located directly on the third layer and including diamond-like carbon (DLC).

Abstract: A method of performing joint arthroplasty on a patient with a bone fragment of a bone at least partially separated from the bone in one embodiment includes providing a prosthetic component with a bone connecting portion and a bone fragment portion, implanting the bone connecting portion of the prosthetic component in the bone, and attaching the bone fragment to the bone using the bone fragment portion.

Abstract: Photodynamic devices for replacement of an articular head of a bone are provided. In an embodiment, a photodynamic device includes a photodynamic support member and an articular member attachable, either fixedly or removably, to the photodynamic support member and having a bearing surface. In an embodiment, the articular member includes a recess designed to receive the photodynamic support member. In an embodiment, the photodynamic support member includes an opening into which a shaft of the articular member can be inserted to attach the articular member to the photodynamic support member.

Abstract: A distal component for an interphalangeal prosthesis suitable for insertion into a proximal end of a distal phalangeal bone includes a stem portion shaped to be received within a surgically prepared bore in the proximal end of the distal bone. A head portion has an under-surface and an upper-surface, the under-surface of which in use will bear on the bone into which the stem is implanted.

Abstract: Photodynamic devices for stabilizing a joint are provided. In some embodiments, a photodynamic joint spacer is provided that includes an expandable member configured for attachment to a bone having an excised region; a formable bar configured for attachment to the bone along at least a portion of the expandable member; and a light-sensitive liquid passed into the expandable member to expand the expandable member, wherein the expandable member is shaped by the formable bar to a shape resembling the excised region of the bone, and wherein the light-sensitive liquid is curable upon exposure to light energy to set the expandable member in the shape resembling the excised region to form a photodynamic joint spacer.

Abstract: Methods for the prevention, or delayed onset or progression of, bone marrow edema or bone marrow lesion, and subchondral treatment to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis of a joint are disclosed. The methods involve treating the subchondral bone, while preserving, as much as possible, the joint's articular and cartilage surface. The methods could be performed before, during, or after an initial arthroscopic surgery to repair the joint. Associated devices and instruments for treatment of the subchondral bone are also disclosed.

Abstract: A prosthetic implant comprising a head having a spherical pyrocarbon shell (13,73) that is attached to a metal substructure (17,77) via an intermediate element (15,45,75). A subassembly of the intermediate element and the pyrocarbon shell may be connected to the metal substructure via a metal split ring (19) that resides partially in each of two facing grooves (33,35) or via interengaging elements (85,87,91) that are provided in two juxtaposed cylindrical surfaces. The design is such that compressive forces applied to the implant at its spherical articulating surface are transferred via compression through the pyrocarbon shell to the metal substructure.

Abstract: A constrained prosthetic knee having a modular hinge post and a rotating bearing. A cannulated hinge post is rotatably connected to the femoral component of the knee prosthesis so that a hinge post extension may be anteriorly positioned through the hinge post and into the tibial component of the knee prosthesis, after positioning of the femoral component in the femur and the tibial component in the tibia. The hinge post is preassembled to the femoral component so that such assembly is not required during the implantation procedure. A meniscal component forming the rotating bearing of the knee prosthesis is packaged together with the hinge post extension so that the appropriate hinge post extension is readily available.