Method and implant for securing ligament replacement into the knee
US6878166B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 1, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 11, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S606/91
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A surgical method and implant for directing and securing a replacement ligament into the femur or tibia of the knee. A transverse tunnel may be formed in the femur approximately perpendicular to a femoral tunnel. A flexible strand passing through the transverse tunnel may be used to draw the replacement ligament into the femoral tunnel. The implant may then be placed into the transverse tunnel and through the replacement ligament to secure the replacement ligament in place. The implant may include an eyelet to receive the flexible strand and a tapered portion forming a shoulder to prevent the implant from being inserted too far into the transverse tunnel. The implant may also have a multi-angular configured portion to secure the implant within the transverse tunnel through an interference fit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.