Orthopaedic Research Institute, Inc.

University of Missouri

Orthopaedic Research Institute, Inc., of Wichita

Francis W Cooke

Thomas R Marrero

Hirotsuga K Yasuda

Dustan L Hahn

David A McQueen

Improved polymeric orthopaedic compositions are disclosed wherein sized, functional fibers are incorporated into a physiologically acceptable matrix. The compositions of the invention can be fabricated in the form of particulate powders adapted for reinforcment of bone cements, continuous media for such cements, and orthopaedic implant coatings. A complete implant attachment system is also provided, made up of a fiber reinforced implant coating, and a compatible fiber-reinforced cement. In preferred forms, the fibers have a layer of sizing thereover which is chemically joined both to the surface of the fibers and to the surrounding matrix, and the fibers are present at a level of at least about 6 volume percent. If desired, sized radiopaque particles may be incorporated into the compositions of the invention. The fibers are advantageously polymeric in nature and of intermediate stiffness, whereas the matrix fraction is preferably polymethylmethacrylate.

Orthopaedic appliance and method of preparing

Bone cement having chemically joined reinforcing fillers

An orthopaedic surgical implant apparatus includes an elongated intramedullary rod assembly 10 for use in uniting a pair of bone segments wherein each of the bone segments includes a medullary cavity. The elongated intramedullary rod assembly 10 defines a central longitudinal axis when assembled and includes first and second points of attachment 26, 48, the rod assembly 10 being adapted to be positioned within the medullary cavities of the bone segments and secured to the first bond segment at the first point of attachment 26 and to the second bone segment at the second point of attachment 48. Structure 18, 52 is provided for shortening the predetermined distance between the first and second points of attachment 26, 48 of the rod assembly in the direction of the longitudinal axis after the rod assembly has been connected to the first and second bone segments so that the first and second bone segments are brought into contact with and press against one another. A method of implanting the apparatus is also disclosed.

Orthopaedic knee fusion apparatus

Growing community of inventors

Wichita, KS, United States of America

Francis W Cooke