Patent ID: 8092465
Filing Date: 2012-01-10
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of preparing a joint for a prosthesis in a patient, the method comprising: mating a three-dimensional curved inner surface of a patient-specific alignment guide to a joint surface of the patient, the inner surface nestingly conforming and mateable only in one position on the joint surface of the patient; positioning a drill guide having a body and first and second guiding bores in alignment with corresponding first and second guiding apertures of the alignment guide; drilling first and second locating holes into the joint surface through the first and second guiding apertures; inserting first and second guide elements through the first and second guiding apertures of the alignment guide into the first and second locating holes in the joint surface; drilling third and fourth locating holes through corresponding third and fourth guiding apertures of the alignment guide; removing the alignment guide without removing the first and second guide elements; supporting a first cutting device on the first and second guide elements after the alignment guide is removed; resecting the joint surface using the first cutting device after the alignment guide is removed; supporting a second cutting device using third and fourth pins inserted into the third and fourth locating holes; and resecting the joint surface using the second cutting device after the alignment guide is removed.