Patent ID: 6821470
Filing Date: 2004-11-23
Classification: B29C,B29L,Y10S

Abstract:
A method of manufacturing a polymeric bearing component for use in joint arthroplasty and for cooperation with a first joint component and a second joint component, comprising the steps of:providing a non-linear reinforcing support of a durable material and having a first end and a second end thereof; providing a molding die adapted for manufacturing the bearing component for use in total joint arthroplasty and having a first mold portion and a second mold portion thereof, the first mold portion adapted to provide a first surface of the bearing component for cooperation with the first joint component and the second mold portion adapted to provide a second surface of the bearing component for cooperation with the second joint component; positioning the support in a desired position within the molding die, with one of the first end and at the second end located in the first mold portion; adding moldable polymeric material into the molding die; substantially surrounding the support with the moldable material; heating and pressurizing the mold; permitting the moldable material to cool to form the bearing component; and removing the component from the molding die, wherein the surrounding step comprises surrounding the support with the moldable material extending normally from the surface of said support a distance of at least 5 millimeters.