Apparatus and method for plugging holes in an acetabular shell component
US5925077A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 2, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jul 20, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 2, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2310/00353
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
This invention relates to an apparatus and method for plugging holes in an acetabular shell component. The apparatus includes an acetabular shell component having an inner concave surface and an outer convex surface with at least a first selectively pluggable hole passing therethrough. The first selectively pluggable hole being defined by at least a cylindrical threaded sidewall. The apparatus further includes a plug having a tapered threaded sidewall. The cylindrical threaded sidewall of the first selectively pluggable hole threadably receives the tapered threaded sidewall of the plug to create an interference fit. This interference fit substantially seals the first selectively pluggable hole to minimize migration of debris through the first selectively pluggable hole. The apparatus further includes a second selectively pluggable hole and a removal instrument which is operable to removably engage a second plug without scratching the inner concave surface of the acetabular shell component during the removal of the second plug.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.