Implanting and removal of orthopedic prostheses

Abstract

A hip joint prosthesis or the like may be removed from the bone for a revision by applying ultrasonic vibration sufficient to disrupt connection of the prosthesis with the bone. This is particularly desirable for disrupting cancellous bone at the interface adjacent to the porous surface of a prosthesis designed for ingrowth of cancellous bone. Preferably the ultrasonic vibrations are applied to the prosthesis with sufficient energy for disrupting cancellous bone at the porous surface interface or softening a cement employed for securing the prosthesis to the bone. An ultrasonically vibrated osteotome may be inserted along the porous surface of a prosthesis for disrupting cancellous bone adjacent to the interface. Preferably the ultrasonic transducer is coupled to the prosthesis by a self-holding taper on the prosthesis and a complementary tapered socket connected to an ultrasonic transducer. Ultrasonic vibrations may also be employed for forming a cavity into which a prosthesis is implanted. This technique includes vibrating the prosthesis itself as it is inserted to enlarge the cavity and assure a tight fit.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.