Prosthesis positioning apparatus and method for implanting a prosthesis

Abstract

An apparatus for positioning a prosthesis in a bone includes a body, first and second clamps, a depth gauge and a guide. The first clamp is coupled to the body. The depth gage is coupled to the body and is movable relative thereto generally perpendicular to the shaft of the bone. The second clamp can be selectively engaged with and disengaged from the depth gage. The second clamp is movable with the depth gage and is also moveable in a direction generally parallel to the axis of the bone. The guide is used to determine the proper rotational orientation of the apparatus. The first clamp is then secured to the bone. The second clamp is secured to a trial prosthesis and is engaged with the depth gage as the trial is inserted into the bone. When the proper insertion depth is reached, the second clamp is secured to the depth gage. The joint is then reduced and the range of motion checked. The depth and rotational orientation may be adjusted as needed. The second clamp is released from the trial, the trial is removed and the prosthesis is inserted in the bone and secured to the second clamp.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.