Femoral prosthesis holder/driver tool and method of implantation using

Abstract

There is described a surgical tool and method for implanting a condylar prosthesis onto a femur using the tool. The prosthesis is of the type having a pair of posterior condyles which define an intercondylar notch opening including a distal internal contact surface extending anteriorly from the notch toward an anterior condylar flange. The tool comprises an elongated handle having a proximal end adapted for contact with the prosthesis and a distal end with an anvil for driving the prosthesis onto the distal aspect of the resected femur. One or more arms are attached to the proximal end of the shaft, including one or more anteriorly projecting fingers which are moved within the notch to engage the proximal internal contact surface. A pair of abutment pads are actuated to engage an external surface of the proximal condyle and exert a force opposite to the gripping finger(s) to securely lock and hold the prosthesis and tool together during implantation. The prosthesis is manipulated into position and seated on the resected bone while being driven at the anvil then, following implantation unlocked and the arms removed back from the notch to separate the tool from the implant. Alternatively, a pair of cooperating arms are pivotally attached to the proximal end of the shaft. The arms are separable from one another, once within the notch, and also include medial and lateral fingers, respectively, which engage a proximal internal retaining wall posteriorly of the notch.