Patent ID: 6015937
Filing Date: 2000-01-18
Classification: A61B,A61F,Y10S

Abstract:
Apparatus for use in prosthetic surgery, comprising:(i) a substantially rotationally symmetrical anchoring element made of a tissue compatible material, for implantation in tissue, the anchoring element having a peripheral surface which has an external screw thread, the anchoring element having an insertion end which is the leading end thereof during insertion of the anchoring element in tissue and having an opposite application end, the anchoring element having a slot extending radially into the element and only extending partially across the anchoring element to an opposite side of the anchoring element, the slot being located at a distance from the insertion end,(ii) a blanking element dimensioned to fit in the slot to fill the slot and shield the slot during the application of the anchoring element into a recess prepared in the tissue and during subsequent healing of the tissue around the anchoring element,(iii) means for releasably retaining the blanking element in its position filling the slot,(iv) a prosthesis component having a portion formed for engagement with the anchoring element in place of the blanking element, the prosthesis component having a portion which occupies the slot when the prosthesis component is fitted to the anchoring element.