Lunate implant and method of stabilizing same
Abstract
Abstract A lunate implant includes a one-piece, at least semi-rigid body defining a triquetrum face, a scaphoid face, a cupped, concave, distal surface adapted to articulate with the capitate bone, a proximal surface, a palmar surface and a dorsal surface. A pair of spaced, generally parallel suture passages extend between and open through the triquetrum and scaphoid faces. A pair of sutures are stitched to ligaments of the wrist. The ends of the sutures are passed through the suture passages so that one of the sutures has ends extending away from the triquetrum face and the other suture has ends extending away from the scaphoid face. The ends are grasped and the lunate implant is pulled down into the desired position in the distal carpal row of the wrist. The sutures are tied adjacent the implant to stabilize and position the implant.
Inventors
- 👤 Alfred B. Swanson
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 6References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1993-11-12 | 1994-05-14 | 1994-11-13 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1997-11-12 | 1998-05-14 | 1998-11-13 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2001-11-12 | 2002-05-14 | 2002-11-13 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |