US 7,172,593 B2 · Non-metallic implant devices and intra-operative methods for assembly and fixation

Abstract

This invention relates to orthopedic implants and to methods of treating bone defects. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present invention is directed to non-metallic implants and to methods for intra-operative assembly and fixation of orthopedic implants to facilitate medical treatment. The non-metallic implant assembly can be secured to underlying tissue by a fastener, such as a bone screw, that is capable of swelling on contact with fluid in the underlying tissue. Alternatively, the non-metallic implant assembly can be assembled intra-operatively using a fastener that is adhesively bonded to a bone plate or the bone plate can be deformed using heat, force, or solvents to inhibit withdrawal of the fastener. In preferred embodiments, both the fastener and the bone plate are formed of biodegradable material.

Claims74

Dependent claims

A method of fixedly securing a fastener to a bone plate, said method comprising:

surgically preparing bone tissue in need of repair for receipt of a bone plate;
placing a bone plate proximal to said bone tissue in need of repair, said bone plate having at least one opening therethrough;
and
inserting a bone screw through the at least one opening and into the bone tissue, wherein at least one of the fastener and the bone plate include an adhesive to fixedly secure the fastener to the bone plate, wherein said inserting comprises deforming a portion of the bone plate or the fastener with a solvent.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Non-metallic implant devices and intra-operative methods for assembly and fixation

Life of this patent

Non-metallic implant devices and intra-operative methods for assembly and fixation

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims74