Modular guide for shaping of femur to accommodate intercondylar

Abstract

Modular surgical instrumentation and a method of using same is provided, according to the invention. The instrumentation comprises a first bracket defining a generally U-shaped structure having an internal surface adapted to be seated on the distal aspect of a resected femur bone and an elongated central opening appointed to expose a selected area of the resected femur, including a curved track for guiding a first shaping tool along a predetermined path for controlled shaping of a curved patellar groove in a portion of the selected area exposed through the opening. A second bracket defines a linear slotted bore extending generally parallel to the long axis of the femur for guiding a second shaping tool to form a relatively deep recess accommodating an intercondylar stabilizing housing of a knee implant. The second bracket has an internal surface defining a shape adapted for releasable engagement with the curved track, including mechanism for accurately aligning the slotted bore relative to the opening while forming the recess. The method of the invention comprises the steps of seating the first bracket described above on the distal aspect of the resected femur and moving the first shaping tool along the curved track to form a patellar groove in a selected area thereof. The first shaping tool is then withdrawn and, leaving the first bracket in place, the second bracket described above is seated on the curved track so that the slotted bore of the second bracket is accurately aligned with the opening of the first bracket, after which a second shaping tool is introduced through the bore to form a recess accommodating the intercondylar-stabilizing housing of the implant.