Method for treating joint pain and associated instruments

US9730744B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ZIMMER KNEE CREATIONS, INC. · US

Inventors

• Peter F. Sharkey · Villanova, US
• Charles F. Leinberry · Chester Springs, US
• Steven B. Cohen · Redondo Beach, US
• Charanpreet S. Bagga · Jalan Pedongkelan, US
• Erik M. Erbe · Berwyn, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 27, 2016
• Grant date: Aug 15, 2017
• Expiry date: May 27, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2002/30001
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

The embodiments provide provides devices, instruments, and associated methods for treating joint pain. A joint is evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging to detect any defects in the subchondral bone. For example, using T2-weighted MRI images, bone marrow lesions or edemas can be identified, and using T1-weighted MRI images, associated regions of sclerotic bone adjacent to the bone marrow lesion can be identified. The treatment method may involve introducing a bone void filler material at the site to address the bone marrow lesion or edema, and/or drilling and inserting an implant to address the sclerotic bone, bone marrow lesion or edema, and insufficiency or stress fractures. An access path is mapped to a location in the subchondral region where the insufficiency fracture resides. The access path attempts to preserve an articular surface of the joint. A reinforcing member that stabilizes the insufficiency fracture is then implanted via the access path.