Invention (Patent Application Publication): Linares
MA. Artificial ligaments for joint applications.
WO2009039164A1 (2009).
WO2009039164A1 US
Inventor: Miguel Linares
Worldwide applications 2008 EP WO US 2010 US US
Application PCT/US2008/07665 events:
2008-09-17 Application filed by Linares Medical Devices, Llc
2008-09-17 Priority to EP08831763A
2009-03-26 Publication of WO2009039164A1
Artificial ligaments for joint
applications
Miguel
Linares
Abstract
A ligament incorporated into a
prosthetic joint exhibiting a plasticized, elongated and deformable material. A
fibrous material is internally disposed within the deformable material, the
fibrous material terminating in first and second enlarged bead portions
arranged in proximity to enlarged pocket defined ends associated with the
deformable materials. First and second bones define a joint region
therebetween, the deformable end pockets and bead portions being inserted
through associated holes defined in joint proximate locations associated with
the bones, so that actuation of a projection location of the fibrous material
causes the bead portions to outwardly deflect the end pockets, resulting in the
ligaments being anchored in place between the bones.
Description
ARTIFICIAL LIGAMENTS FOR JOINT APPLICATIONS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority on U.S.
Provisional Application Serial No. 60/972,903, filed on September 17, 2007, as
well as a U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61/031,187, filed on February
25, 2008. The contents of both applications are incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is concerned with
artificial implants for use with both natural and artificial human bones. In
particular, the present inventions discloses a number of ligament supports, such
as are capable of substituting for human ligaments in an artificial implant.
The artificially constructed ligament provides for non deforming stretching and
contracting, such as is associated with natural ligaments and tendons, this
assisting in maintaining the integrity of an joint established between first
and second opposing bone ends of an artificial implant.
[0003] In a further application, the present
inventions disclose an improved ligament support configuration, such as are
capable of substituting for human ligaments in an artificial implant. The
artificially constructed ligament includes a cup and cavity sealing
arrangement, between a first bone defined ball projection and an associated
ball socket. An interiorly configured ligament, extending between an interior
location of the socket and an end surface of the associated projection,
provides a measure of deformable and non-tear stretching and contracting, and
such as is associated with natural ligements and tendons, this assisting in
maintaining the integrity of an joint established between first and second
opposing bone ends of an artificial implant. The configuration is particularly
suited for use in replacement or rehabilitative knee joint assemblies, in one
variation for the particular benefit of adolescents, and which provides a
unique and dynamic joint design.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The prior art is documented with various types
of prosthetic ligament assemblies, these typically being provided with an
artificial joint, the purpose for which being to replace an existing joint and
ligaments which has become worn through extended wear or irreplaceably damaged
through disease or injury. One objective of such artificial joint/ligament
implants, whether adapted for use with an existing bone remaining in the
patient or as a component of one or more skeletal implants which includes a
built-in joint, is in providing a desired amount of cushioning and restraining
support when positioned in-situ.
Examples of existing natural/synthetic engineered
ligament and tendon articles, methods and assemblies include, among others,
those set forth in Vacanti USPN 6,840,962, Parr USPN 4,744,792, Li USPN
5,263,984, Dooris USPN 7,101,398, Lo USPN 6,190,411, Hays USPN 7,329,281,
Zimmermann USPN 5,376,119, Sklar USPN 6,939,379, Fronk USPN 5,004,474,
Edberg USPN 6,626,942, Hlavacek USPN 4,792,336,
Kapadia USPN 4,883,486, Hoffman USPN 4,483,023, Semple USPN 3,973,277, McKernan
USPN 7,056,340, Ryan USPN 6,001,106 and, finally, Kenna USPN 4,828,562.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In a first application, the present inventions
disclose a ligament for incorporating into an artificial joint associated with
an implant. Each ligament includes a plasticized, elongated and deformable
material. A fibrous material is internally disposed within the outer deformable
material, with the fibrous material terminating in first and second enlarged
bead portions arranged in proximity to enlarged pocket defined ends associated
with the deformable materials.
[0006] First and second bones define a joint region
therebetween, with deformable end pockets and bead portions being inserted
through associated holes defined in joint proximate locations associated with
the bones. Actuation of a projection location of the fibrous material causes the
bead portions to outwardly deflect their associated end pockets, resulting in
the ligaments being anchored in place between the bones.
[0007] In a preferred application, the ligaments each
include an outer urethane body, with the fibrous material including at least
one of a graphite, a nylon, a polyester, and a cellulosic fiber strand
material. The ligaments can also exhibiting any of a linear, an arcuate and a
circular/ring shape.
[0008] In another sub-application, an alternately configured
and press fit ligament structure possesses an elongated body with laterally
projecting and barbed side sections, the sections being "press fit"
into engagement with side disposed locations of a selected bone or pair of
bones located in closely proximate fashion. The press fit ligament structure
possesses an elongated body with laterally projecting and barbed side sections
which are "press fit" into engagement with side disposed locations of
a selected bone or pair of bones located in closely proximate fashion.
[0009] In a further sub-application, a plurality of plasticized plugs coaxially secure an end-defined implant section over an elongate, open ended and interiorly hollowed artificial bone. In another, an end section implant is engaged over an artificial bone, and exhibits undercut sections established in the outer annular bone, these inter-fitting with a corresponding and annular interior configuration associated with a depending skirt portion of the annular end implant section. Plastic bands can also be provided for securing the end- fitted implant section over the hollow bone.
[0010] In a further embodiment, the ligament is incorporated into the
artificial joint associated with the implant and includes first and second
bones defining a joint region therebetween. A lubricating plastic is defined
upon an exposed face of at least one, and typically both, of the bones. One or
more "dynamic" ligament portions extend from at least the lubricated
plastic and secure to an exposed and opposing end face of the other of the bones.
[0011] The first bone typically exhibits a bulbous and ball
shaped projecting portion, with the second bone exhibiting an interiorly
recessed and three dimensional socket receiving portion for receiving the ball
shaped portion in seating fashion. The ligaments further each exhibit bulbous
end projection portions, these extending from an interconnecting neck portion
and secured to a surface of the lubricating plastic. The bulbous projections
secure into an interiorly formed recess defined in an opposing bone surface.
[0012] The lubricating plastic is secured to either of the
bulbous projection or interiorly formed recess and further includes opposing
and mating lubricating plastic surfaces provided as ring-shaped components
secured to opposing and coating surfaces of each of the bones, such that the
rings contact one another in a mating and relatively rotational permissive
fashion and in order to promote effortless contact between the exposed and
opposing end surfaces. The ligament portions can also include a pair of
crosswise extending ligaments secured to opposing and joint defining surfaces
associated with first and second artificial end plugs in turn mounted to the
bones. In another application, a swivelable joint assembly is provided in which
a rotating flexible ligament of substantial spool shape is arranged in a socket
configuration between a lower male end defining bone and an undercut support
secured to an upper socket defining bone.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] Reference will now be made to the attached drawings,
when read in combination with the following detailed description, wherein like
reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and in
which:
[0014] Fig. 1 is an illustration of artificial ligaments
incorporated into joint defining knee implant according to one embodiment of
the present invention and further including opposing and mating lubricating
plastic surfaces for establishing effortless contact between opposing bone end
surfaces;
[0015] Figs. 2 is an end view illustration of a selected
artificial implant bone according to Fig. 1 and showing the manner in which
bore holes are drilled at precise locations for receiving inserting ends of
associated ligament supports;
[0016] Fig. 2A is a partial illustration of a selected
ligament, such as shown in Fig. 2;
[0017] Fig. 2B is an illustration of an alternately
configured and press fit ligament structure, this possessing an elongated body
with laterally projecting and barbed side sections which are "press
fit" into engagement with side disposed locations of a selected bone or
pair of bones located in closely proximate fashion.
[0018] Fig. 3 is a first illustration of a ligament
sub-assembly, in a pre- tensioned/anchored condition once opposite ends of the
ligament are located through mounting drill hole locations associated with
first and second opposing and joint defining bones; [0019] Fig. 3 A is a
succeeding illustration to Fig. 3 and showing a selected ligament end arranged
within a bone drill hole;
[0020] Fig. 3B is a further succeeding illustration to that
shown in Fig. 3 and referencing the fibrous/thread being progressively
displaced in order to outwardly deform the outer urethane material associated
with the liagement ends in biasing fashion against the arcuate inner walls of
the bone drill hole;
[0021] Fig. 4 is an illustration of a ligament structure
according to another embodiment and illustrating a plurality of ring-shaped
ligements;
[0022] Fig. 5 is an end view of a selected bone shown in
Fig. 4;
[0023] Fig. 6 is an illustration of a semi-circular
ligament, and such as can be employed in the variant of Fig. 4;
[0024] Fig. 6 A illustrates a circular shaped ligament
according to a further potential design;
[0025] Fig. 6B illustrates a modified version of the
circular shaped ligament shown in
Fig. 6A;
[0026] Fig.
7 is an illustration of an alternate mounting variant for securing an
artificial ligement to first and second locations associated with a unique joint
defining structure;
[0027] Fig. 8 is a sectional illustration of a further
mounting configuration for application to opposing inside walls of a selected
bone according to the present inventions;
[0028] Fig. 9 is an illustration of a plurality of individual
configured artificial ligaments according to the present inventions;
[0029] Fig. 10 is a cutaway illustration of a further
example of a ligament supported implant and joint, and further showing a
plurality of conduit passageways formed into an end surface of a selected
artificial bone containing a synthetic fluid reservoir, and which is micro-
controlled for discrete release of lubricant fluid s into the joint;
[0030] Fig. 11 is an illustration of a further variant
similar to that shown in Fig. 10, and of a ligament supported joint
configuration;
[0031] Fig. 12 is a cutaway view taken along line 12-12 of
Fig. 10 and illustrating a plurality of plasticized plugs for coaxially
securing an end-defined implant section over an elongate, open ended and
interiorly hollowed artificial bone;
[0032] Fig. 13A is an illustration of a first configuration
of a plasticized anchor and such as is shown in the embodiment of Fig. 12;
[0033] Fig. 13B is an illustration of an alternately
configured anchor ;
[0034] Fig. 13C is a still further illustration of another
synthetic anchor; [0035] Fig. 14 is an illustration similar to that shown in
Fig. 10 of a yet further anchor bolt design utilized in the securing of an end
defined implant section over a bone, such as previously shown in Fig. 12;
[0036] Fig. 15 is an alternate embodiment for securing an
end section over and artificial bone, and illustrating undercut sections
established in the outer annular bone, these inter- fitting with a
corresponding and annular interior configuration associated with a depending
skirt portion of the annular end implant section; and
[0037] Fig.16 is a non-cutaway illustration of the
embodiment of Fig. 15, and further showing the features of the plastic bands
for securing the end-fitted implant section over the hollow bone.
[0038] Fig. 17 is an exploded view of a connective
artificial ligaments incorporated into joint defining knee implant according to
one embodiment of the present invention and including a first bone defined ball
projection and an associated ball socket for establishing, in combination with
a connective ligament, effortless contact between opposing bone end surfaces;
[0039] Figs. 18 is an exploded plan view illustrating a
further variant of ligament assembly and in which a lubricated plastic layer
surrounding the ball defined projection further includes an integrally formed,
bulbous male end projecting ligament seating portion, this being resistively
snap-fit received into an associated located recess in a female and additional
bone defined socket cavity, for flexibly and dynamically retaining the first
bone ball portion within the second bone socket of a selected artificial
implant bone;
[0040] Fig. 19 is an exploded plan view of a further
configuration of ligament assembly, similar to that shown in Fig. 2, and by
which the arrangement of lubricating plastic layer and associated bulbous end
ligament projection is switched to the female ball defined socket, the
corresponding male ball projection incorporating an interior defined drill recess
for resistively seating the ligament projection;
[0041] Fig. 2OA is an illustration of a plurality of
individual and smaller sized ligaments extending between seating locations
associated with opposing and joint defining bones, a lubricated plastic layer
being established between the bones and, in combination with the ligaments,
providing a joint such as between tibia and fibula design bones;
[0042] Fig. 2OB is an enlarged sectional illustration of an
alternate ligament assembly and which a plurality of ligament ends are formed
within a sanitary plasticized layer in turn defined upon a selected end surface
of a bone;
[0043] Fig. 21 is an illustration of a knee joint assembly
and illustrating a ligament engaging portion extending from a plasticized layer
associated with a first lower leg bone and seating within an interiorly drilled
and resistively seating aperture associated with an upper femur bone;
[0044] Fig. 22 is a cutaway end view of a tibia bone, such
as shown in Fig. 4, and illustrating an alternative arrangement of ligaments
according to the present inventions;
[0045] Fig. 23 is plan view of a further joint assembly and
including a pair of crosswise extending ligaments secured to opposing and joint
defining surfaces associated with first and second artificial end plugs, and
such as which can be secured in retrofit manner to natural bones;
[0046] Fig. 24 is a modified end plan view illustrating
connecting locations of the pair of ligaments relative to opposing bone end
surfaces; [0047] Fig. 25 is a similar illustration to that of Fig. 7 and
showing an alternate arrangement of bone and joint with stretchable composite
ligaments;
[0048] Fig. 26 is a further cutaway view of a slightly
alternately configured joint assembly with recess mounted ligaments;
[0049] Fig. 27 is an illustration similar to that shown in
Fig. 10 and illustrating the manner in which the bone end plugs are secured to
the retrofit machined bones and subsequently attached by a pair of cross
extending (interlocking) stretch and secure ligaments;
[0050] Fig. 28 is a prior art illustration of a section of
healthy regenerating bone;
[0051] Fig. 29 is a prior art illustration of a section of
deteriorating bone;
[0052] Fig. 30 is a further prior art illustration of a
portion of deteriorating bone residing atop an underlying and rejuvenating bone
layer and associated inner bone marrow;
[0053] Fig. 31 is an illustration of a further variant of
swivelable joint assembly and in which a rotating flexible ligament of
substantial spool shape is arranged in a socket configuration between a lower
male end defining bone and an undercut support secured to an upper socket
defining bone;
[0054] Fig. 32 is an enlarged sectional view of a modified
spool shaped rotating and flexible ligament disposed between swivelable contact
locations associated with receiver/socket composite hardened plastic end plugs;
and
[0055] Fig. 33 is an illustration of an alternate
arrangement to that shown in Figs. 15 and 16, and by which a differently
configured hardened plastic end plug is secured to a sectioned end of a natural
bone, within which is contained bone marrow, the end plug further exhibiting a
recessed interior facing surface which is ribbed or otherwise irregularly
formed so that marrow contact locations promote the growth of adhering healthy
bone.
DETAILED
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0056] Referring now to Fig. 1, a first embodiment is
illustrated of an artificial ligament system incorporated into joint defining
knee implant according to one embodiment of the present invention. The knee and
ligament embodiment featured generally at 10 exhibits first 12 and second 14
bones, these typically corresponding to a patient's upper and lower leg bones
and which further define particularly configured and opposing/seating locations
which is defined as a joint region 16.
[0057] As further understood, the bones 12 and 14 are
typically artificial prostheses, these including such as plastic, metal or
other suitable material constructions which exhibit the necessary properties of
durability and resilience. Opposing and mating lubricating plastic surfaces,
see at 18 and 20, promote effortless contact between opposing bone end
surfaces.
[0058] As will be further described with reference to Figs. 3-3B, ligaments are shown at 22 and 24 (typically first and and second pairs, totaling four are provided, with only a single pair evident from this illustration). The ligaments are each typically constructed of a fibrous based central core (see at 26 in Fig. 1 and also as referenced in the example of Fig. 3), over which is molded an expandable urethane or other suitable material, and such that the ligament exhibits the concurrent properties of significant durability, resiliency and strength, this including the ability to stretch and dependably return to an initial length.
[0059] In each of the embodiments
subsequently described, the plastics incorporated both into the joint defining
end bone faces, as well as the outer urethane or other deformable coverings
associated with the artificial ligaments, are constructed of a sanitized or
sterilized material and which may further include an integrally incorporated
antibiotic compound. The internal filament portions associated with each
ligament design may further include such as graphite, other synthetic fibers
including high strength polyester/nylon, as well as natural/cellulose based
materials, including in particular very fine bamboo threads and which have been
found to be extremely durable.
[0060] End locations of the ligaments include larger
bead-like portions, see at 28 and 30, these being connected to ends of the
central fiber/filament 26. Upon translating a central projecting location of
the filament 26 (see at 32 in Fig. 3), this in turn causes the bead portions 28
and 30 to inwardly displace and outwardly deform end defined pockets, further
at 34 and 36, associated with the urethane covering.
[0061] Figure 2 is an end view illustration of a selected
artificial implant bone, such as again at 12 in Fig. 1 and which illustrates a
plurality of bore holes, see pairs 38 and 40, drilled at precise locations for
receiving inserting ends of associated ligament supports, e.g. the bead
portions 28 and 30. A particularly configured tool, such as incorporating an
expandable and spherical grinding tip, is employed for grinding the desired
configuration of hole into the end or proximate side facing locations of both
opposing bones, this in particular contemplating forming a larger diameter
interior location communicated through a narrowed surface communicating
channel. Upon snap-fit inserting of the urethane end pockets and each
associated bead portion, subsequent expansion in the manner previously
described causes the end location of the ligament to be securely anchored into
the drill hole. [0062] Figure 2B is an illustration of an alternately
configured and press fit ligament structure, at 27, this possessing an
elongated body with laterally projecting and barbed side sections, at 29 and
31, and which are "press fit" into engagement with side disposed
locations of a selected bone or pair of bones located in closely proximate
fashion. The ligament structure illustrated in this embodiment is intended for
certain applications, such as where there is a hairline crack or other
imperfection in an existing bone/implant application and it is desired to
repair or remediate the damaged area without requiring removal from the
patient. As also shown, the spaced apart and barbed extending side edges can be
alternately configured, see at 29' and 31', in order to establish a desired
snap-fit engagement with a selected bone drill aperture. This can also entail a
plurality of deflecting ridge/gripping portions or the provision of end
deflectable and biasing locations for anchoring in place once passed through
the depth of the bone wall.
[0063] Referencing again Figure 3, a first illustration of
the ligament sub-assembly illustrates the expandable urethane end pockets in a
pre-tensioned, pre-anchored condition. As described, and once opposite ends of
the ligament are located through the mounting drill hole locations associated
with first and second opposing and joint defining bones, the tensioning of the
central filament portion 32 of the synthetic fiber strands, results in the
expansion of the pockets (see Fig. 3A). Referencing further Fig. 3B, a
succeeding illustration to that shown in Fig. 3 references the fibrous/thread
26 being progressively displaced (and by drawing inwardly the bead end portions
28 and 30 against the curvature of the urethane end pockets 34 and 36, in order
to outwardly deform the outer urethane material associated with the liagement
ends in biasing fashion against the arcuate inner walls of the bone drill hole.
[0064] Referring now to Fig. 4, an illustration is shown of
a ligament structure according to another embodiment and illustrating a
plurality of ring-shaped ligaments 38, 40, 42, et. seq., securing first 44 and
second bones 46 according to a further preferred application. The bones 44 and
46 each include lubricated plastic defined end surfaces, at 48 and 50, these
defining an intermediate joint region. [0065] The ligament structure of the
rings 38, 40, 42, et. seq., is similar to that previously described, and such
as again including an outer and deformable urethane material, within which is
encased an inner translating filament. Accordingly, and in one mounting
variant, the ligaments are arcuate (semi-circular at most), with opposite
expandable ends 52 and 54 seating in dedicated bone drill hole locations, these
also being shown in the end view of Fig. 5 at 56 and 58 as sets of holes.
[0066] Of note, and further referencing Figs. 6-6B, the
ligaments can exhibiting modified expanded ends that can also be reconfigured,
such as is shown in Fig. 6B, such that they can be made to seat together (such
as by being configured as male and female engaging portions), and in order to
convert an arcuate shape ring with first and second bone anchoring ends as a
dedicated circular or ring shaped ligament. Figure 6B illustrates a modified
version of the circular shaped ligament shown in Fig. 6A, and by which a snap
fit engagement, see male end at 60 and associated outer female end 62 is
established for securing the artificial ligament in engaged fashion.
[0067] Referring now to Fig. 7, an illustration is shown of
an alternate mounting variant for securing a reconfigured artificial ligament
64 to first 66 and second 68 locations associated with a unique joint defining
structure. Artificial bones are illustrated at 70 and 72 and generally
correspond to an alternate joint defined structure, such as possibly an elbow
structure and in which bone hole locations 66 and 68 again correspond to
drilled locations through which bead end portions 74 and 76 and corresponding
urethane end pockets 78 and 80 are resistance inserted, and subsequently
deformed in the manner previously described, and such as through the
translation of dedicated end defined fiber threads of intermediate length, at
82 and 84. The central extending portion of the ligament body 64 as such does
not exhibit the fiber threads, however the construction of the ligament body is
such that it can withstand the normal forces associated with the joint
application in both a dynamic and resilient fashion.
[0068] Referring now to Fig. 8, a sectional illustration of
a further mounting configuration of a ligament associated with inside opposing
surfaces of a selected bone. In particular, the bone (again typically
artificial but also contemplating possible application to actual bones)
illustrated in cutaway includes wall portions 86 and 88. Drill holes, of a
nature previously described, are effected at 90 and 92 associated with inside
facing locations of the bone wall portions 86 and 88 and utilizing any
specialized medical drills and techniques which render possible this drill
configuration. The ligament is illustrated at 94 and includes opposite and
expandable ends 96 and 98 which, upon being engaged in a fashion similar to
that previously described, serves to assist or reinforce in maintaining the
internal integrity of the bone structure.
[0069] Figure 9 is an illustration of a plurality of
individual configured artificial ligaments, see at 100, 102, 104 and 106,
according to the present inventions. In particular, each of the ligaments
referenced corresponds to a differently sized application for engagement into
specifically configured bone drill holes, such as for example in the manner
previously described.
[0070] Referring now to Fig. 10, a cutaway illustration of a
further example of a ligament supported implant includes a plurality of conduit
passageways 108, 110, 112, these being formed into an end surface 114 of a
selected artificial bone 116. As will be further described in reference to
Figs. 12 and 13A-13C, an implant section 117 is anchored to an end of the bone
116, such as through the use of a plurality of anchoring portions.
[0071] The passageways communicate with a surface of the end
secured implant section 117, in turn anchored to the bone 116 such as by bolts
or fasteners. A synthetic fluid reservoir 118 is contained within a hollow
interior of the bone 116 and is micro-controlled (see controller
representatively shown at 120 with sensors) for instructing discrete release of
lubricant fluid s into the surface location 114 defining a part of the joint
area. The surface 114 may further again include a low resistance and antiseptic
plastic /wear layer, this being continually augmented by the microcontroller
dispensed droplets (such as for example constituting a 1A drop release on
a daily basis. Additional features such as ligaments are representatively shown
at 122 and 124, and such as can be constructed in a fashion similar to that
previously described.
[0072] Referring now to Fig. 11, an illustration is shown of
a further variant, similar to that shown in Fig. 10, and of a ligament
supported joint configuration. In particular, an alternately configured end
implant section 126 is shown anchored to an end of a suitable and artificial
bone, again at 116. The implant section 126 can correspond to any of a number
of suitable joint defining sections, and such as can be arranged in opposing
fashion with the arrangement shown in Fig. 10.
[0073] Figure 12 further shows a cutaway view, taken along
line 12-12 of Fig. 10, and illustrating a plurality of plasticized plugs or
anchors, see at 128, 130, 132 and 134, for coaxially securing an end-defined
implant section, again at 117, over an elongate, open ended and interiorly
hollowed artificial bone 116. When viewed collectively, Figs. 10 and 12
illustrate the annular defined space associated with the seating end of the
implant section 117 (see also spaced apart inner wall 117'), the annular edge
of the bone 116 seating in the space between the implant end walls 117 and
117', with the bolt or fastener sections 128-134 being secured at the locations
indicated.
[0074] Referring now to Fig. 13 A, an illustration of a
first configuration of an alternately configured plasticized anchor, such as is
shown in the embodiment of Figs. 10 and 12, is referenced at 136. The anchor 136
includes a flattened outer end 138 from which extends an elongated stem portion
140, this further including a plurality of spaced apart tangs 142 and which
extend in a fashion which biasingly engage the inner annular wall surfaces of
the inner and outer spaced apart implant walls (see again at 117 and 117') as
well as the seatingly fitted annular bone 116 disposed therebetween.
[0075] As further shown in Fig. 13B, an alternately
configured anchor 144 includes a similarly flattened end 146 and an enlarged
tip 148 for resistively engaging against an inside surface of the implant wall
117'. Figure 13C is a still further illustration of another synthetic anchor,
see at 150, and which includes a likewise flattened first seating head 152, and
opposite extending and conically flared end 154 again corresponding to an inner
wall seating location for securing the implant 117 to the associated bone 116.
[0076] Fig. 14 is an illustration similar to that shown in
Fig. 10 of a yet further anchor bolt design utilized in the securing of an end
defined implant section, at 156, over a bone 158, such as similar to that
previously shown in Fig. 12. The anchor bolt is further shown at
160 and is likewise constructed of a synthetic plastic,
including opposite end positioned enlarged heads 162 and 164, which secure the
spaced apart and annular extending rim locations 166 and 168 of the implant 156
to the open annular edges of the bone 158. Of further note, the implant 156 can
be constructed of a molded plastic or other synthetic material, and may again
include a lubricated joint defining surface 170, as well as pluralities of
ligaments 172 and 174 which, in cooperation with a further suitable bone ,
define a desired joint application.
[0077] Referring next to Fig. 15, an alternate embodiment is
referenced for securing an end section implant, at 176, over an open interior
and elongate artificial bone 178. This in particular involves the ability to
undercut (e.g. machine/drill) sections established in the outer annular bone
surface, see at 180 and 182. These undercut sections are configured to inter-
fit with a corresponding and annular interior configuration, see inwardly
facing annular protrusions 184 and 186, associated with a depending skirt
portion 188 of the annular end implant section 176. A central plug location 190
of the implant is dimensioned such that it extends into the interior of the
bone 178 and, in cooperation with the mating undercut and annular projecting
locations, ensure a secure fit of the end-implant section 176 over the end of
the bone 178.
[0078] Referring to Fig.16, a non-cutaway illustration is
shown of the embodiment of Fig. 15, this further illustrating the feature of
the plastic bands, see at 192 and 194, for assisting in securing the end-fitted
implant section 176 over the hollow bone 178. The bands can either be surface
located, as indicated in Fig. 16 or, alternatively, can be in-molded into the
interior of the implant's annular skirt portion 188, as shown in Fig. 15 at
192' and 194'.
[0079] Referring now to Fig. 17, an exploded view is shown
of a connective artificial ligament, see at 200 incorporated into a joint
defined (e.g. such as knee or elbow) implant according to one embodiment of the
present invention. The arrangement of Fig. 17 includes a first bone 202 defined
ball projection 204 and an associated second bone 206 with an interiorly
defined socket 208 for establishing, in combination with the connective
ligament 200 extending therebetween, effortless contact between opposing bone
end surfaces.
[0080] As further understood, the bones 202 and 206 are
typically artificial prostheses, these including such as plastic, metal or
other suitable material constructions which exhibit the necessary properties of
durability and resilience. Opposing and mating lubricating plastic surfaces (or
rings), see at 210 and 212, are provided in such as ring-shaped components
secured to the respective bones 202 and 206, such as in the case of lubricating
surface (or ring) 210 around a neck portion 214 associated with the ball
projection 204 and in the further case of the coacting lubricating ring 212
being secured to an encircling rim location of the bone 206 located around the
interiorly defined socket 208. Upon assembly, the rings 210 and 212 contact one
another in a mating and relatively rotational permissive fashion, and in order
to promote effortless contact between opposing bone end surfaces.
[0081] As will be further described with reference to each
of the succeeding illustrations the ligaments (again shown at 200 in Fig. 17)
are each typically constructed of a fibrous based central core over which is
molded an expandable urethane or other suitable material, and such that the
ligament exhibits the concurrent properties of significant durability,
resiliency and strength, this including the ability to stretch and dependably
return to an initial length.
[0082] In each of the embodiments subsequently described,
the plastics incorporated both into the joint defining end bone faces, as well
as the outer urethane or other deformable coverings associated with the
artificial ligaments, are constructed of a sanitized or sterilized material and
which may further include an integrally incorporated antibiotic compound. The
internal filament portions associated with each ligament design may further
include such as graphite, other synthetic fibers including high strength
polyester/nylon, as well as natural/cellulose based materials, including in
particular very fine bamboo threads and which have been found to be extremely
durable.
[0083] In the embodiment of Fig. 17, the ligament 200 (illustrated in partial cutaway) extends between a first connective location 216 associated with the ball projection 14 of the bone 202 and a second connective location 218 associated with the interiorly defined socket 208 of the second bone 206.
[0084] Figure 18 is an exploded plan view illustrating a
further variant of ligament assembly and in which a lubricated plastic layer
220 surrounds a ball-end defined projection 222 of a first bone and further
exhibits an integrally formed, bulbous male end projecting ligament seating
portion 224, extending via an interconnecting neck 226. The bulbous end seating
portion 224 is resistively snap-fit received into an associated located recess
228 defined in a female and additional bone defined socket cavity 230, for
flexibly and dynamically retaining the first bone ball portion within the second
bone socket of a selected artificial implant bone.
[0085] The associated bore hole, see again at 228 in Fig.
18, is drilled at a precise location within the second bone receiving socket,
such as through the use of a particularly configured tool, such as incorporating
an expandable and spherical grinding tip, and which is employed for grinding
the desired configuration of hole into the end or proximate side facing
locations of both opposing bones. This in particular contemplates forming a
larger diameter interior location communicated through a narrowed surface
communicating channel, see at
232. Upon resistive snap-fit of the bulbous end portion 224
of the ligament secured to the such as the first bone lubricating layer 220,
through the employment of a suitable tool and concurrent with attaching the
ball 222 into the socket 230, the ligament is securely anchored into the drill
hole.
[0086] Figure 19 is an exploded plan view of a further
configuration of ligament assembly, similar to that shown in Fig. 18, and by
which the arrangement of lubricating plastic layer 234 and associated bulbous
end ligament projection 236 is switched to a female bone and ball defined
socket 238. A corresponding male ball projection 240 incorporates an interior
defined drill recess 242 (similar to that previously described with reference
to elements 228 and 232 in Fig. 18) and for resistively seating the ligament
projection.
[0087] Referring now to Fig. 2OA, an illustration of a
plurality of individual and smaller sized ligaments is referenced at 244
extending between seating locations associated with opposing and joint defining
bones 246 and 248. A lubricated plastic layer 250 is established between the
bones 246 and 248 and, in combination with the ligaments 244, provide a joint
such as between tibia and fibula design bones.
[0088] The ligaments 244 are further secured in recessed
fashion within the bones, as shown in at 252 and 254 for bones 246 and 248,
respectively, in Fig. 20. This can be accomplished such as by pre-forming or
pre-manufacturing the ligament ends into the end- facing bone structure.
Alternatively, and further referencing Fig. 2OB is an enlarged sectional
illustration of an alternate ligament assembly shows a plurality of ligament
ends 256 which are formed within a sanitary plasticized layer 258 in turn
defined upon a selected end surface of a bone 260. As in Fig. 2OA, enlarged end
seating locations 262 are referenced within the plasticized layer 258 and
provide for fixed engagement of the ligaments in dynamic fashion.
[0089] Figure 21 is an illustration of a knee joint assembly
including a ligament engaging portion 264 extending from a plasticized layer
266 associated with a first lower leg bone 268, and seating within an
interiorly drilled and resistively seating aperture 270 associated with an
upper femur bone 272. The plasticized layer 266 is similar to those previously
described in reference to earlier embodiments and can define a softer plastic
cartilage with a substantially frictionless and supporting surface, against
which co-act associated projecting end locations 274 and 276.
[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the plasticized layer 266
is supported in loosely supported fashion of its associated underside contoured
surface 278 relative to an opposing surface 280 of the lower bone 268. In this
manner, the anchoring of the integrally defined ligament portion 264 extending
from an associated upper contoured surface 282 of the plasticized layer 266,
and within the upper bone 272, establishes a desired and substantially frictionless
dynamic environment for a completed joint assembly. [0091] Referring to Fig.
22, a cutaway end view is shown of a tibia bone 284, such as shown in Fig. 20,
and which further illustrates an alternative arrangement of ligament structure,
see at 286 and 288. The cutaway ligaments 286 and 288 can define such as a loop
shape or other seating arrangement for securing the associated bone 284 to an
opposing bone not shown) in a desired and ligament defining dynamic
environment.
[0092] Referring now to Fig. 23, a plan view is shown of a
further joint assembly and including a pair of crosswise extending ligaments,
at 290 and 292, secured to opposing and joint defining surfaces associated with
first and second artificial end plugs 294 and 296. As will be further described
in succeeding illustrations, the end plugs 294 and 296 are constructed of a
hardened plastic, or composite, material, and exhibit lubricious inducing
cartilage end surfaces, at 298 and 300 respectively, and such as which can be
secured in retrofit manner to natural bones.
[0093] As will also be described in additional detail, the
end plugs 294 and 296, as well as those shown in succeeding embodiments, are
generally illustrated in a cutaway cross section and it is understood and
envisioned that a three dimensional representation of the joint defining bone
locations (while not practicable for purposes of the present description) can
also contemplate a 360 degree socket receiving cavity (see as shown at 300)
associated with the first bone 294 receiving in generally inserting fashion a
male projecting end (at 302) associated with the second bone 296. As is also
shown in the modified end plan view of Fig. 24, better illustrated are the
connecting locations associated with the pair of ligaments 290 and 292 secured
relative to opposing bone end surfaces.
[0094] Specifically, enlarged (bead) ends are associated
with the ligaments, as referenced at 294 & 296 for ligament 290 and at 298
& 300 for ligament 292. The ligaments 290 and 292 are constructed in one
non-limiting variant off an elongated fiber/graphite composite material, with
the enlarged bead shaped ends further being secured within recess cavities,
these created by specialized bone drill forming bits at locations proximate
side or end surface interior locations formed in the bone plugs 294 and 296.
The recess formed cavities also can include an enlarged diameter recess
interior interconnected to the surface of the bone end plug via a narrower
diameter neck. It is also envisioned that, in addition to drilling the desired
cavities, unique and innovative forming techniques can be employed for
producing the desired ligament engaging locations as part of the plasticized
end plug. Although not clearly shown in this illustration, it is also understood
that the bead ends can each also exhibit an end-directed plasticized
displaceable component for securably maintaining the bead ends within their
associated recessed cavities, and once press-fit inserted within the recess
drill cavities.
[0095] Referencing Fig. 25, a similar illustration to that
of Fig. 23 shows an alternate arrangement of bone, see end plugs 302 and 304
with opposing and lubricant defining (soft plastic) cartilage defining
surfaces, at 306 and 308, and joint with stretchable composite ligaments 310
and 312. As disclosed in the preceding embodiment, the ligaments can be arrayed
in a crosswise extending pattern and to thereby provide both a combined degree
of stretch/elastic give to the defined joint, as well as maintaining the
overall integrity of the joint assembly over prolonged dynamic use.
[0096] Figure 26 is a further cutaway view of a slightly
alternately configured joint assembly with recess mounted ligaments, see at 314
and 316, and which are secured in extending and cross wise fashion between a
modified pair of end plugs 318 and 320. A series of mating peaks and ridges
established between the end opposing faces, these also including lubricant
cartilage layers 322 and 324, associated with a soft plastic material
overlaying hardened plastic substrates establishing the end plugs 318 and 320.
The first end plug 318 further establishes a more pronounced interior (central)
cavity 326, within which seats a generally central and inner projecting portion
328 associated with the second plug 320. As explained previously, the end plugs
are shown in sectional cutaway, it being understood that they each define a
substantially three dimensional article, with the inner portion 328 and
opposing cavity 326 establishing a universal and joint defining pocket
therebetween.
[0097] As also previously described, enlarged bead-ends of
the ligaments 314 and 316 are installed in a similar previously described
fashion, and such as in which a pre-formed and enlarged inner diameter hole
receives the associated bend end in a press fit fashion, following which a
deformable plastic may be optionally inserted, injected or linearly compressed
along end extending locations associated with the ligament strand, and to
thereby retain the bead in securely in place. As further shown in Fig. 27,
illustrated is the manner in which the bone end plugs 318 and 320 are secured
to retrofit end machined bones (e.g. these being natural bones and which are
shown at 330 and 332 with sectioned off ends).
[0098] The hardened plastic end plugs 318 and 320 are
fixedly secured to the sectioned ends of the bones 330 and 332. Following this,
the ligaments 314 and 316, which are already secured at first selected bead
ends, are manipulated such that the opposite bead ends are resistively press
fit into engagement with pre-formed recess cavity defined apertures, see as
shown at 334 and 336, such that the joint assembly exhibits a pair of cross
extending (interlocking) stretch and secure ligaments.
[0099] Referring now to Figs. 28-30, a succession of illustrations
are shown of known bone structures, and such as are relevant to the
incorporating of the joint plugs. Specifically, Fig. 28 provides a microscopic
illustration of healthy bone growth associated with healthy bone marrow and
such as which can assist in permanently affixing the plug inserting ends of the
joint defining hardened plastic components, see again as shown in Fig. 27 at
318 and 320 and which are inserted within the sectioned natural bone ends 330
and 332, further within which human bone marrow resides for facilitating the
desired natural bonding of the plug to the bone. Figure 29 in contrast is a
prior art illustration of a section of deteriorating bone, whereas Fig. 30 is a
further prior art illustration of a portion of deteriorating bone residing atop
an underlying and rejuvenating bone layer and associated inner bone marrow.
[00100] Referring now to Fig. 31, an illustration is shown
of a further variant of swivelable joint assembly and in which a rotating
flexible ligament of substantial spool shape 338 is arranged in a socket
configuration between a lower male (or receiver) end defining bone 339,
including composite hard plastic end plug 340 and an undercut support 342
secured to an upper socket defining bone 343 further including a likewise hard
plastic arranged in a generally bowl-receiving shape 344. The arrangement shown
in Fig. 31 can depict such as a hip or shoulder joint, and in which a desired
degree of combined universal and rotatable support is established by the
artificially constructed joint. As shown in previously described embodiments,
opposing surface locations associated with the composite hard plastic bones 340
and 344 further include composite soft plastic surfaces 346 and 348, the first
hardened plastic plug 340 further including an extending stem portion which is
securably mounted within an interior associated with the bone 339, whereas the
second bowl shaped hardened plastic is secured via adhesives or a naturally
ribbed or irregularly shaped surface for promoting natural bone marrow
incorporation and adhesion to the upper bone defined socket 343.
[00101] The undercut support 342 is further provided in a
generally knob-shape or configuration, and which can also be constructed of a
suitable durable plastic or like composite material, and which is secured
within an aperture formed through the upper saucer shaped bone 343 and
associated hardened plastic 344. The rotating flexible (e.g. spool shaped)
ligament 338 is swivelable both in respect to the upper located undercut support
342, as well as the recessed (e.g. press fit) mounting location associated with
the lower male defining plug 340. In a preferred application, the knob shaped
undercut support can also rotate independently or in unison with the spool
shaped ligament 338.
[00102] Progressing to Fig. 32, an enlarged sectional view
is shown of a further variant of spool shaped rotating and flexible ligament,
at 350, disposed between swivelable contact locations associated with a
modified and composite hardened plastic lower installed end plug 352 and an
upper hardened plastic end plug 354. The spool shaped ligament 350 differs from
that previously identified at 338 in that a first exterior layer 356 is applied
over a second core material 358. In one preferred application, the exterior
layer 356 is a softer/cushioning material, as compared to a hardened core 358.
It is also understood that the material compositions can be reversed with the
core incorporating a softer material and in comparison to a hardened outer
layer, this providing variances in the performance characteristics of the
universal joint in use.
[00103] Finally, and referring to Fig. 33, an illustration
is shown of an alternate arrangement to that shown in Figs. 31 or 32, and by
which a differently configured hardened plastic end plug, likewise generally
spool shaped as shown at 360, is secured to a sectioned end of a natural bone
362, within which is contained bone marrow 364. An associated end plug 366
further exhibits a recessed interior facing surface 368 which is ribbed or
otherwise irregularly formed, and such that marrow contact locations promote
the growth of adhering healthy bone. The plug 360 is further illustrated in a
recess cavity secured (or press fit) fashion within an exposed end face
location of the hardened plastic plug 366, and over which is applied a softer
plastic cartilage defined surface 370. As is further shown in Fig. 33, an
annular end face of the plug 366 can exhibit an interior notched recess 372,
this being configured and dimensioned to seatingly engage over the exposed and
sectioned end (see at 374) of the retrofitted bone 362, at which point the
interiorly contained marrow 364 initiates its natural bonding action between
the hardened plastic plug 366 and the bone 362.
[00104] Having described my invention, other and additional
preferred embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which
it pertains, without deviating from the scope of the appended claims.
Claims:
1. A ligament for
incorporating into an artificial joint associated with an implant, comprising:
a plasticized, elongated and deformable material; a fibrous material internally
disposed within said outer deformable material, said fibrous material terminating
in first and second enlarged bead portions arranged in proximity to enlarged
pocket defined ends associated with said deformable materials; and first and
second bones defining a joint region therebetween, said deformable end pockets
and bead portions being inserted through associated holes defined in joint
proximate locations associated with said bones, actuation of a projection
location of said fibrous material causing said bead portions to outwardly
deflect said end pockets, resulting in said ligaments being anchored in place
between said bones.
2. The invention as described
in claim 1, said ligament further comprising an outer urethane body.
3. The invention as described
in claim 1, said fibrous material further comprising at least one of a
graphite, a nylon, a polyester, and a cellulosic fiber strand material.
4. The invention as described
in claim 1, further comprising a lubricating plastic defined upon an exposed
face of at least one of said bones.
5. The invention as described
in claim 1, said bones each further comprising an artificial implant
constructed from at least one of a plasticized and a metallic material.
6. The invention as described
in claim 5, said bones each having a specified shape and size and establishing
a joint selected from a group including at least one of upper/lower knee joint
and an outer/inner ball and socket joint.
7. The invention as described
in claim 4, further comprising a plurality of lubricating passageways extending
from a lubricant reservoir contained within a selected bone and to the
lubricant plastic, a microcontroller instructing discrete release of lubricant
from said reservoir in a time dependent fashion.
8. The invention as described
in claim 1, further comprising an inner reinforcing member inserted within an
existing outer bone and surrounded by an injectable and settable ballasting
fluid.
9. The invention as described
in claim 1, said plasticized layer having a specified shape and size and
further comprising an antimicrobial plastic.
10. The invention as described
in claim 1, said ligament exhibiting a specified shape and size and further
comprising at least one of a linear, an arcuate and a circular/ring shape.
11. The invention as described
in claim 1, further comprising an alternately configured and press fit ligament
structure possessing an elongated body with laterally projecting and barbed
side sections, said sections being "press fit" into engagement with
side disposed locations of a selected bone or pair of bones located in closely
proximate fashion.
12. The invention as described
in claim 1, further comprising a press fit ligament structure possessing an
elongated body with laterally projecting and barbed side sections which are
"press fit" into engagement with side disposed locations of a selected
bone or pair of bones located in closely proximate fashion.
13. The invention as described
in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of plasticized plugs for coaxially
securing an end-defined implant section over an elongate, open ended and
interiorly hollowed artificial bone.
14. The invention as described
in claim 1, further comprising an end section implant engaged over an
artificial bone, and illustrating undercut sections established in the outer
annular bone, these inter-fitting with a corresponding and annular interior
configuration associated with a depending skirt portion of said annular end
implant section.
15. The invention as described
in claim 14, further comprising plastic bands for securing said end-fitted
implant section over a said hollow bone.
16. A ligament for
incorporating into an artificial joint associated with an implant, comprising:
first and second bones defining a joint region therebetween; a lubricating
plastic defined upon an exposed face of at least one of said bones; and at
least one dynamic ligament portion extending from at least said lubricated
plastic and securing to an exposed and opposing end face of the other of said
bones.
17. The invention as described
in claim 1, said first bone further comprising a bulbous and ball shaped projecting
portion, said second bone further comprising an interiorly recessed and three-dimensional
socket receiving portion for receiving said ball shaped portion in seating
fashion.
18. The invention as described
in claim 17, said ligament further comprising a bulbous end projection portion
extending from an interconnecting neck portion secured to a surface of said
lubricating plastic, said bulbous projection securing into an interiorly formed
recess defined in an opposing bone surface.
19. The invention as described
in claim 18, said lubricating plastic being secured to either of said bulbous
projection or interiorly formed recess.
20. The invention as described
in claim 16, said ligament further comprising a fibrous material internally
disposed within an outer deformable material associated with said ligament,
said fibrous material terminating in first and second enlarged bead portions
arranged in proximity to enlarged pocket defined ends associated with said
deformable materials.
21. The invention as described
in claim 16, said lubricating plastic further comprising opposing and mating
lubricating plastic surfaces provided as ring-shaped components secured to
opposing and coating surfaces of each of said bones, such that said rings
contact one another in a mating and relatively rotational permissive fashion,
and in order to promote effortless contact between said exposed and opposing
end surfaces.
22. The invention as described
in claim 16, said ligament portion further comprising a pair of crosswise extending
ligaments secured to opposing and joint defining surfaces associated with first
and second artificial end plugs in turn mounted to said bones.
23. The invention as described in claim 16, further comprising a swivelable joint assembly and in which a rotating flexible ligament of substantial spool shape is arranged in a socket configuration between a lower male end defining bone and an undercut support secured to an upper socket defining bone.
External links
Linares MA. Artificial
ligaments for joint applications. WO2009039164A1 September 17, 2008.
2009. patents.google
Publications
of invention
EP2203132 (A1)
EP2203132 (A4)
US2010145450 (A1)
US2010152851 (A1)
US7887586 (B2)
US8163016 (B2)
US8177840 (B2)
WO2009039164 (A1)
2009LinaresMA
Authors & Affiliations
Miguel
Linares – Mackintosh Lane, Bloomfield Hills, MI (US)
Keywords
ligamentum capitis femoris, ligamentum teres, ligament of head of femur, endoprosthesis, prosthesis, invention, unipolar, subtotal,
NB! Fair practice / use: copied for the purposes of criticism, review, comment, research and private study in accordance with Copyright Laws of the US: 17 U.S.C. §107; Copyright Law of the EU: Dir. 2001/29/EC, art.5/3a,d; Copyright Law of the RU: ГК РФ ст.1274/1.1-2,7
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