Method for fusing a human or animal joint as well as fusion device and tool set for carrying out the method
US8951254B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 20, 2009 |
| Grant date | Feb 10, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 1, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2310/00796
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The fusion device for fusing a synovial joint of a human or animal patient, in particular a human facet joint, finger joint or toe joint, includes two pin-shaped anchorage portions (1) and arranged therebetween a stabilization portion (2). The anchorage portions (1) include a thermoplastic material which is liquefiable by mechanical vibration. The stabilization portion (2) preferably has a surface which is equipped for enhancing osseointegration. The anchorage portions (1) have a greater thickness (T1) and a greater depth (D) than the stabilization portion (2). Then the fusion device is pushed between the articular surfaces and mechanical vibration, in particular ultrasonic vibration, is applied to the proximal face (4) of the fusion device. Thereby the liquefiable material is liquefied where in contact with the bone tissue and penetrates into the bone tissue, where after re-solidification it constitutes a positive fit connection between the fusion device and the bone tissue.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.