Orthopedic implant assemblies and devices

Innovative orthopedic implant assemblies and devices are provided. One example assembly includes two implant devices. An example implant device includes two ends oppositely located with a bulbous portion located at one end and a screw portion located at the opposite end. An example second implant device includes two ends oppositely located with a looped portion defining an aperture located at one end and a nail portion located at the opposite end. The nail portion can include a tip and a smooth or substantially smooth portion. The second implant device can be implanted into a bone by striking the looped portion to facilitate the tip and at least part of the nail portion penetrating the bone.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Technology

The present technology relates generally to systems and apparatus for fusing bones and joints, and more particularly to, orthopedic implant assemblies and devices.

Description of the Related Art

Intraosseous fixation differs from traditional fixation devices in that hardware is not typically left exposed to soft tissue. As a newer form of fixation in, for example foot and ankle arthrodesis surgery, previous implant assemblies and/or devices require precise instrumentation that can be difficult to use. If an implant assembly/device and its associated instrumentation are not properly aligned, it can be difficult to produce desirable results. For instance, intra-operative problems can occur when bone fragments, soft tissue, and imposing tendons create improper alignment both for an implant assembly/device itself and from the implant assembly/device to instrumentation, which can lead to a lack of compression, weak compression, and/or complete misalignment. These problems can be exacerbated through patient non-compliance, movement, and/or osteoporotic bone quality, etc., each of can result in a disengagement of a proper fitment of the implant assembly/device. Further, soft tissue aggravation and/or non-unions often occur as components in an implant assembly disengage and implant device(s) constructs become loose rather than tight. Accordingly, previous implant assemblies and implant devices are not as efficient and/or reliable as they otherwise could be.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments provide innovative orthopedic implant assemblies and devices. One implant assembly includes a first implant device and a second implant device. The first implant device includes a first end and a second end oppositely located along a longitudinal first axis a bulbous portion at the first end that extends along the first axis, and a screw portion at the second end that extends along the first axis. The second implant device includes a third end and a fourth end oppositely located along a longitudinal second axis, a looped portion defining an aperture at the third end, and a nail portion at the fourth end. The first implant device and the second implant device can provide compression to a set of bones when the bulbous portion and the looped portion are engaged

An implant device includes a first end and a second end oppositely located along a longitudinal axis, a looped portion defining an aperture at the first end, and a nail portion at the second end. The aperture includes an interior surface comprising a set of grooves and the implant device is configured to provide compression to a set of bones when engaged with another implant device.

Another implant device includes a first end and a second end oppositely located along a longitudinal axis, a looped portion defining an aperture at the first end, and a nail portion at the second end. The aperture includes a smooth interior surface and the implant device is configured to provide compression to a set of bones when engaged with another implant device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The innovative technology disclosed herein includes various aspects, such as orthopedic implant devices and assemblies for fusing bones and joints. The disclosed technology provides is advantageously more efficient and/or more reliable than previous implant devices and/or assemblies. It should be understood that language used in the present disclosure has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and not to limit the scope of the subject matter disclosed herein.

Various embodiments may provide a locking feature that can ensure proper fitment to reduce implant impedance and/or poor surgical outcomes regardless of an implant environment. Some implant devices may utilize a Morse-taper fitment along with an interference thread on a crown that can aid instruments and interfacing screws in aligning and properly implanting of assemblies and devices. An interference thread can allow instruments to lock in conjunction with the taper to further ensure that an assembly/implant is properly aligned. Furthermore, the interference thread may aid in locking the sere compression in place and reducing the chance of an implant device from backing out over time.

In addition, as used herein, the term “set” can mean “one or more,” unless expressly specified otherwise. The term “sets” can mean multiples of or a plurality of “one or mores,” “ones or more,” and/or “ones or mores” consistent with set theory, unless expressly specified otherwise.

The schematic flowchart diagrams and/or schematic block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations. It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. Although various arrow types and line types may be employed in the flowchart and/or block diagrams, they are understood not to limit the scope of the corresponding embodiments. Indeed, some arrows or other connectors may be used to indicate only an exemplary logical flow of the depicted embodiment.

The description of elements in each figure below may refer to elements of proceeding figures. For instance, like numbers can refer to similar elements in all figures, including alternate embodiments of similar elements.

With reference now to the figures,FIG.1Ais a diagram illustrating an example implant device100A in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device100A may include a shaft portion102with a first end104and a second end106that are opposite one another along a longitudinal axis108and define a first terminal axis110and a second terminal axis112, respectively. As shown, the implant device100A may comprise, among other features, a bulbous portion114at the first end104and a screw portion116at the second end106. Although the various embodiments may be referred to herein as an implant device100A, at least some embodiments of the implant device100A may be considered and/or referred to as a lag screw.

The bulbous portion114, in various embodiments, may originate at the first terminal axis110and extend along the longitudinal axis108and terminate at any position on the shaft portion102. As such, the bulbous portion114may include any suitable height or length. The bulbous portion114, in some embodiments, may include a height or length that allows the bulbous portion114to engage a looped portion of another implant device (e.g., looped portion214of implant device200A,200B, and200C inFIGS.2A,2B, and2C, respectively) to lock implant device100A to the other implant device, as discussed elsewhere herein (see e.g.,FIGS.3A and/or3B).

In various embodiments, the looped portion214may include any suitable shape that is capable of being engaged with the looped portion of another implant device (e.g., the looped portion214). In other words, the bulbous portion114can include any shape that complements and/or corresponds to the looped portion of the other implant device. Non-limiting examples of a shape suitable for the bulbous portion114may include, but are not limited to, a circle, an oval, and/or any other circular shape, etc., among other example shapes.

Alternatively, or additionally, the shape of the bulbous portion114may, in various embodiments, include a suitable amount of tapering. In some embodiments, the tapering may originate at a crown118of the bulbous portion114that is located beginning at the first terminal axis110and continually taper down along the longitudinal axis108to a foot120of the bulbous portion114. In further embodiments, the tapering may originate at the crown118and terminate a position that is away from the foot120or the tapering may originate at a position that is away from the crown118and continually taper down along the longitudinal axis108to the foot120such that the bulbous portion114can include a tapered portion and a non-tapered portion. In alternative embodiments, the tapering may originate at a position that is away from the crown118and terminate at a position that is away from the foot120such that the bulbous portion114can include a tapered portion and multiple non-tapered portions.

In various embodiments, a tapered portion of the bulbous portion114may include any suitable type of tapering that is known or developed in the future and is capable of creating a force or compression, in any desired amount, when engaged and/or connected with another implant device (e.g., implant device200A,200B, and200C inFIGS.2A,2B, and2C, respectively), as discussed elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the taper in the bulbous portion114may comprise a Morse-taper.

A bulbous portion114may include a thread122located on its external surface that rotates in a helix along a rotational axis124of the bulbous portion114and down the longitudinal axis108. The thread122, in various embodiments, may rotate in the range of about ten degrees (10°) to three hundred sixty degrees (360°), among other examples. In some embodiments, the thread122may rotate 360° along the rotational axis124. In further embodiments, the thread122may rotate less than 360° along the rotational axis124. In an example embodiment, the thread122rotates ninety degrees (90°) along the rotational axis124. Various embodiments of the thread122can be considered a single thread since they rotate less than or equal to 360° along the rotational axis124.

In various embodiments, the thread122may rotate at any suitable angle along the rotational axis124. In some embodiments, the thread122may rotate at an angle to create a spaced apart or wide thread along the longitudinal axis108, while in other embodiments the thread122may rotate at an angle to create a tight or narrow thread along the longitudinal axis108. In further embodiments, the thread122can rotate at the same angle and/or an angle that corresponds to an angle at which a groove on an interior surface of a looped portion (e.g., groove222on looped portion214) rotates such that the thread122and the groove lock the bulbous portion114and the looped portion together when engaged, as discussed elsewhere herein (e.g.,FIGS.3A and/or3B).

The thread122may include any suitable height and/or shape that can allow the thread122to engage a groove or other thread. In various embodiments, the thread122may include any suitable height and/or shape that may be compatible with and/or may correspond to a depth and/or shape of a groove (e.g., groove222) that can allow the bulbous portion114to be locked with a looped portion (e.g., looped portion214inFIGS.2A,2B, and2C) such that implant device100A can form a portion of an implant assembly (e.g., implant assembly300A inFIGS.3A and/or3B) along with at least one other implant device (e.g., implant device200A,200B, and200C inFIGS.2A,2B, and2C, respectively), as discussed elsewhere herein (e.g.,FIGS.3A and/or3B).

In further embodiments, the thread122may include a sufficient amount of height such that the thread122can be considered a wing. In some embodiments, the thread122may include a height in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm, although other heights are possible and contemplated herein.

Further, the thread122can originate and/or terminate at any suitable location on the bulbous portion114. In various embodiments, the thread122may originate at a position along the crown118of the bulbous portion114, may terminate at a position along the foot120of the bulbous portion114, may originate at a position along the crown118and terminate at a position along the foot120, or may originate at a position that is away from the crown118and terminate at a position that is away from the foot120.

The bulbous portion114, in some embodiments, may include one or more additional threads122such that the bulbous portion114can include multiple single-threads. For instance, the threads122may be spaced apart such that no single thread122includes greater than 360° of rotation along the rotational axis124. In some aspects, two or more single-threads122may may rotate in parallel or not in parallel in relation to one another. In further aspects, two or more single-threads122may originate at the same location (e.g., crown118) or different locations on the bulbous portion114and/or terminate at the same location (e.g., foot120) or different locations on the bulbous portion114. For instance, two or more threads122may originate at the crown118of the bulbous portion114, one thread122may originate at the crown118and a second thread122may terminate at the foot120of the bulbous portion, two or more threads122may terminate at the foot120, two or more threads122may originate at the crown118and terminate at the foot120, or two or more threads122may both originate and terminate at different locations on the bulbous portion114, etc., among other location combinations that are possible and contemplated herein.

The crown118of the bulbous portion114, in various embodiments, may include a mechanism126that can be engaged by a tool that allows the implant device100A to be implanted into a bone or joint and/or engaged with a looped portion of another implant device (e.g., looped portion214of implant device200A,200B, and200C inFIGS.2A,2B, and2C, respectively). In some embodiments, the mechanism126may include characteristics similar to an aperture in the head of a screw (e.g., a Phillips screw, flat-head screw, star screw, box screw, hex screw, etc., among other examples) that can allow a screwdriver, Allen wrench, hex key, rotational tool, or similar tool, etc. to engage the aperture126.

The second end106, in various embodiments, may include a screw portion116on the shaft portion102that extends along the longitudinal axis108and terminates at the second terminal axis112. The screw portion116may be any suitable length that allows the implant device100A to be implanted into a bone or joint. Further, the screw portion116may be tapered in any suitable manner that is known or developed in the future that is capable of allowing the implant device100A to be implanted into a bone or joint. The screw portion116may further include a plurality of threads128including any suitable height, any suitable width, and/or suitable amount of space between each thread128. For instance, the plurality of threads128may include any suitable number rotations or suitable amount of rotation along the rotational axis124that is greater than 360°.

The implant device100A may comprise any material that is known or developed in the future that is capable of being implanted into a bone or joint. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, a metal, an alloy, a composite material, and/or the like materials, etc., among other example materials. Some suitable specific non-limiting examples include titanium, stainless steel, nitinol, cobalt chromium, and/or aluminum, etc., among other suitable materials that are possible and contemplated herein.

In various embodiments, the implant device100A may include any suitable shape that is capable of being implanted into a bone or joint. Non-limiting examples of a shape suitable for the implant device may include, but are not limited to, a circle, an oval, and/or any other circular shape, etc., among other example shapes.

Further, the implant device100A may include any suitable length and/or suitable circumference that can allow the implant device100A to be implanted into a bone or joint. A non-limiting example range of lengths includes, but is not limited to, about 10 mm to about 150 mm. Further, a non-limiting example range of circumferences includes, but is not limited to, about 2 mm to about 100 mm.

Referring now toFIG.1B,FIG.1Bis a diagram illustrating another example implant device100B in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device100B may include a shaft portion102, a first end104, a second end106, a horizontal axis108, a first terminal axis110, a second terminal axis112, a bulbous portion114, a screw portion116, a crown118, a foot120, a rotational axis124, a mechanism126, and threads128similar to the implant device100A discussed above. Implant device100B may further include, among other components, a plurality of threads130on the external surface of bulbous portion114. That is, one difference between implant device100A and implant device100B is that the bulbous portion114in implant device100A includes a single thread122, while the bulbous portion114in implant device100B includes multiple threads130.

The threads130may be located on the external surface of bulbous portion114and rotate in a helix along the rotational axis124of the bulbous portion114and down the longitudinal axis108. The threads130, in various embodiments, may rotate at any suitable angle along the rotational axis124. In some embodiments, the threads130may rotate at an angle to create spaced apart or widely spaced threads130along the longitudinal axis108, while in other embodiments the threads130may rotate at an angle to create tight or narrowly spaced threads along the longitudinal axis108. In further embodiments, the threads130can rotate at the same angle and/or an angle that corresponds to an angle at which a groove on an interior surface of a looped portion (e.g., groove222or grooves230on looped portion214) rotates such that the threads130and the groove222or grooves230lock the bulbous portion114and the looped portion214together when engaged, as discussed elsewhere herein.

The threads130may include any suitable height and/or shape that can allow the threads130to engage a groove222or grooves230or other thread. In various embodiments, the threads130may include any suitable height and/or shape that may be compatible with and/or may correspond to a depth and/or shape of a groove (e.g., groove222), grooves (e.g., grooves230) and/or otherwise (e.g., a smooth area232) that can allow the bulbous portion114to be locked with a looped portion (e.g., looped portion214inFIGS.2B through2G) such that implant device100B can form a portion of an implant assembly (e.g., implant assembly300C through300H inFIGS.3C through3H) along with at least one other implant device (e.g., implant device200B through200G inFIGS.2B through2G, respectively), as discussed elsewhere herein (e.g.,FIG.3C through3H).

In further embodiments, the threads130may include any suitable height. In some embodiments, the threads130may include a height in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, although other heights are possible and contemplated herein.

Further, the threads130can originate and/or terminate at any suitable location on the bulbous portion114. In various embodiments, the threads130may originate at a position along the crown118of the bulbous portion114, may terminate at a position along the foot120of the bulbous portion114, may originate at a position along the crown118and terminate at a position along the foot120, or may originate at a position that is away from the crown118and terminate at a position that is away from the foot120.

With reference toFIG.1C,FIG.1Cis a diagram illustrating another example implant device100C in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device100C may include a shaft portion102, a first end104, a second end106, a horizontal axis108, a first terminal axis110, a second terminal axis112, a bulbous portion114, a screw portion116, a crown118, a foot120, a rotational axis124, a mechanism126, and threads128similar to the implant devices100A and100B discussed above. Implant device100C may further include, among other components, substantially smooth (e.g., textured, non-threaded, and/or thread-less, etc.) or smooth (e.g., non-threaded, thread-less, etc.) exterior surface132(or substantially smooth or smooth area132) on the bulbous portion114. That is, one difference between implant devices100A/100B and implant device100C is that the bulbous portion114in implant device100C does not include a groove122or grooves130. Instead, the bulbous portion114on implant device100C includes a substantially smooth (e.g., a textured, non-threaded, etc.) or smooth external surface132(e.g., a smooth or substantially smooth area).

Referring now toFIG.2A,FIG.2Ais a diagram illustrating an example implant device200A in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device200A may include a shaft portion202with a first end204and a second end206that are opposite one another along a longitudinal axis208and define a first terminal axis210and a second terminal axis212, respectively. As shown, the implant device200A may comprise, among other features, a looped portion214defining an aperture215at the first end204and a screw portion216at the second end206. Although the various embodiments may be referred to herein as an implant device200A, at least some embodiments of the implant device200A may be considered and/or referred to as a post screw.

The looped portion214, in various embodiments, may originate at the first terminal axis210and extend along the longitudinal axis208and terminate at any position on the shaft portion202. As such, the looped portion214may include any suitable height or circumference. The looped portion214, in some embodiments, may include a height or circumference that allows the looped portion214to engage a bulbous portion of another implant device (e.g., bulbous portion114of implant device100A) to lock implant device200A to the other implant device, as discussed elsewhere herein (e.g.,FIGS.3A and/or3B).

In various embodiments, the looped portion214may include any suitable shape that allows the bulbous portion of another implant device (e.g., bulbous portion114) to be inserted through the aperture215. In other words, the looped portion214can include any shape such that the aperture215complements and/or corresponds to the bulbous portion of the other implant device. Non-limiting examples of a shape suitable for the looped portion214may include, but are not limited to, a circle, an oval, and/or any other circular shape, etc., among other example shapes.

Alternatively, or additionally, the shape of the looped portion214may, in various embodiments, include a suitable amount of tapering on an interior surface that defines the aperture215. In some embodiments, the tapering may originate at an insertion side218of the looped portion214/aperture215that is located along a rotational axis219. In further embodiments, the tapering may originate at the insertion side218and terminate at a position that is away from the exit side220or the tapering may originate at a position that is away from the insertion side218and continually taper down to the exit side220such that the interior surface can include a tapered portion and a non-tapered portion. In alternative embodiments, the tapering may originate at a position that is away from the insertions side218and terminate at a position that is away from the exit side220such that the interior surface of the looped portion214can include a tapered portion and multiple non-tapered portions.

In various embodiments, the interior surface of the looped portion214may be compatible with and/or correspond to any suitable type of tapering that is known or developed in the future and is capable of creating a force or compression, in any desired amount, when engaged and/or connected with a bulbous portion of another implant device (e.g., bulbous portion114), as discussed elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the interior surface of the looped portion214may be compatible with and/or correspond to a bulbous portion comprising a Morse-taper.

The aperture215may be created at an angle203with respect to the longitudinal axis208of the implant device200A. The angle203, in various embodiments, can be any suitable and/or desired angle in the range of about thirty degrees (30°) to about one hundred fifty degrees (150°), although other angles and/or ranges are possible and contemplated herein. In some embodiments, the angle203may be in the range of about 62 degrees (62°) to about 68 degrees (68°), among other example angles and/or ranges. In one embodiment, the angle203may be about sixty-five degrees (65°), among other possible angles that are contemplated herein.

The looped portion214may include a groove222, which can also be considered a thread, which is located on its interior surface that is proximate to the aperture215and rotates in a helix along the rotational axis219. The groove222, in various embodiments, may rotate in the range of about ten 10° to 360°, among other examples. In some embodiments, the groove222may rotate 360° along the rotational axis219. In further embodiments, the groove222may rotate less than 360° along the rotational axis219. In an example embodiment, the groove222rotates 90° along the rotational axis219. Various embodiments of the groove222can be considered a single-groove since they rotate less than or equal to 360° along the rotational axis219.

In various embodiments, the groove222may rotate at any suitable angle along the rotational axis219. In some embodiments, the groove222may rotate at an angle to create a spaced apart or wide groove, while in other embodiments the groove222may rotate at an angle to create a tight or narrow groove. In further embodiments, the groove222can rotate at the same angle and/or an angle that corresponds to an angle at which a thread on a bulbous portion (e.g., thread122on bulbous portion114) rotates such that the groove222and the thread lock the bulbous portion and the looped portion214together when engaged, as discussed elsewhere herein (e.g.,FIGS.3A through3D).

The groove222may include any suitable depth and/or shape that can allow the groove222to engage a thread. In various embodiments, the groove222may include any suitable depth and/or shape that may be compatible with and/or may correspond to a height and/or shape of a thread (e.g., thread122) that can allow the looped portion214to be locked with a bulbous portion (e.g., bulbous portion114) such that implant device200A can form a portion of an implant assembly (e.g., implant assembly300A inFIGS.3A and/or3B) along with at least one other implant device (e.g., implant device100A), as discussed elsewhere herein (e.g.,FIGS.3A and/or3B). In some embodiments, the groove222may include a depth in the range of about 0.05 mm to about 6 mm, although other depths are possible and contemplated herein.

Further, the groove222can originate and/or terminate at any suitable location on the interior surface of the looped portion214. In various embodiments, the groove222may originate at a position along the insertion side218of the looped portion214, may terminate at a position along the exit side220of the looped portion214, may originate at a position along the insertion side218and terminate at a position along the exit side220, or may originate at a position that is away from the insertion side218and terminate at a position that is away from the exit side220.

In some embodiments, the looped portion214may include one or more grooves222that can provide a self-correction mechanism when a single thread (e.g., thread122) engages the looped portion214. For instance, the groove(s)222may be angled and/or positioned in a manner such that the insertion angle and/or trajectory of an implant device (e.g., implant device100A) into the aperture215can be automatically or a least semi-automatically modified as a thread (e.g., thread122) of the implant device catches or engages a particular groove222to better ensure that the implant device is properly implanted and/or implanted on a proper angle/trajectory.

In some embodiments, the looped portion214may include one or more additional grooves222such that the looped portion214can provide multiple engagement points for a single thread (e.g., thread122). For instance, the grooves222may be spaced apart such that a single thread has multiple locations or opportunities to catch or engage a groove222. In some aspects, two or more single-grooves222may rotate in parallel or not in parallel in relation to one another. In further aspects, two or more single-grooves222may originate at different locations on the same rotational plane, different locations on different rotational planes, or the same location on different rotational planes, etc., among other examples that may provide multiple opportunities or chances for a single thread (e.g., thread122) to engage a groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214. The one or more additional grooves222in conjunction with the single-groove222that may provide multiple engagement points for a single thread (e.g., thread122), in some embodiments, can further provide a self-correction mechanism for inserting an implant device (e.g., implant device100A), as discussed elsewhere herein.

The looped portion214, in further embodiments, may include one or more additional grooves222such that the looped portion214can accommodate multiple single-threads (e.g., single-threads122). For instance, the grooves222may be spaced apart such that no single-groove222includes greater than 360° of rotation along the rotational axis219. In some aspects, two or more single-grooves222may rotate in parallel or not in parallel in relation to one another. In further aspects, two or more single-grooves222may originate at the same location (e.g., a point of the looped portion214on/near the insertion side218or at an intermediary point between the insertion side and the exit side220) or different locations on the looped portion214and/or terminate at the same location (e.g., a point of the looped portion214on/near the exit side220or at an intermediary point between the insertion side and the exit side220) or different locations on the looped portion214. For instance, two or more grooves222may originate at the insertion side218of the looped portion214, one groove222may originate at the insertion side218and a second groove222may terminate at the exit side220of the looped portion214, two or more grooves222may terminate at the exit side220, two or more grooves222may originate at the insertion side218and terminate at the exit side220, or two or more grooves222may both originate and terminate at different locations on the looped portion214, etc., among other location combinations that are possible and contemplated herein. The one or more additional grooves222in conjunction with the single-groove222that can accommodate multiple single-threads (e.g., single-threads122), in some embodiments, can further provide a self-correction mechanism for inserting an implant device (e.g., implant device100A), as discussed elsewhere herein.

The second end206, in various embodiments, may include a screw portion216on the shaft portion102that rotates around a rotational axis224and extends along the longitudinal axis208and terminates at the second terminal axis212. The screw portion216may be any suitable length that allows the implant device200A to be implanted into a bone or joint. Further, the screw portion216may be tapered in any suitable manner that is known or developed in the future that is capable of allowing the implant device200A to be implanted into a bone or joint. The screw portion216may further include a plurality of threads including any suitable height, any suitable width, and/or suitable amount of space between each thread. For instance, the plurality of threads may include any suitable number rotations or suitable amount of rotation along the rotational axis224that is greater than 360°.

The implant device200A may comprise any material that is known or developed in the future that is capable of being implanted into a bone or joint. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, a metal (e.g., aluminum), an alloy, a composite material, and/or the like materials, etc., among other example materials. Some suitable specific non-limiting examples include titanium, stainless steel, nitinol, cobalt chromium, and/or aluminum, etc., among other suitable materials that are possible and contemplated herein.

In various embodiments, the implant device200A may include any suitable shape that is capable of being implanted into a bone or joint. Non-limiting examples of a shape suitable for the implant device may include, but are not limited to, a circle, an oval, and/or any other circular shape, etc., among other example shapes.

Further, the implant device200A may include any suitable length and/or suitable circumference that can allow the implant device200A to be implanted into a bone or joint. A non-limiting example range of lengths includes, but is not limited to, about 5 mm to about 150 mm. Further, a non-limiting example range of circumferences includes, but is not limited to, about 4 mm to about 50 mm.

With reference toFIG.2B,FIG.2Bis a diagram illustrating an example implant device200B in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device200B may include a shaft portion202with a first end204including a looped portion214defining an aperture215and further including a second end206similar to the implant device200A, as discussed elsewhere herein. As shown, the implant device200B may further comprise, among other features, a smooth, substantially smooth, or nail portion226at the second end206. The nail portion226is smooth or substantially smooth in that the nail portion226does include the threaded portion216of the implant device200A. The nail portion226may include any suitable tip and/or construction (e.g., sharp, pointed, rounded, etc.) that allows the implant device200B to be tapped, struck, driven, hammered, nailed, pounded, and/or otherwise similarly inserted into and/or attached to a bone. Although the various embodiments may be referred to herein as an implant device200B, at least some embodiments of the implant device200B may be considered and/or referred to as a post screw.

The looped portion214with the single groove222, in some embodiments, is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a single groove122. In additional or alternative embodiments, the looped portion214with the single groove222is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a plurality of grooves130, a substantially smooth exterior surface132, and/or a smooth exterior surface132.

Referring toFIG.2C,FIG.2Cis a diagram illustrating an example implant device200C in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device200C may include a shaft portion202with a first end204including a looped portion214defining an aperture215and a second end206with a nail portion226similar to the implant device200B, as discussed elsewhere herein. As shown, the implant device200C may further comprise, among other features, an aperture228in the nail portion226at the second end206.

The aperture228may include any suitable shape that can allow and/or enable the implant device200C to be better secured into a bone. Similarly, the aperture228may include any suitable dimensions (e.g., length, width, volume, height, circumference, etc.) that can allow and/or enable the implant device200C to be better secured into a bone. Although the various embodiments may be referred to herein as an implant device200C, at least some embodiments of the implant device200C may be considered and/or referred to as a post screw.

The looped portion214with the single groove222, in some embodiments, is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a single groove122. In additional or alternative embodiments, the looped portion214with the single groove222is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a plurality of grooves130, a substantially smooth exterior surface132, and/or a smooth exterior surface132.

With reference toFIG.2D,FIG.2Dis a diagram illustrating an example implant device200D in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device200D may include a shaft portion202with a first end204including a looped portion214defining an aperture215and further including a second end206similar to the implant device200A and further comprises a smooth, substantially smooth, or nail portion226at the second end206similar to the implant device200B, as discussed elsewhere herein.

In various embodiments, implant device200D further comprises, among other components, a plurality of grooves230located on an interior surface of the looped portion214. That is, while various embodiments of an implant device include a single groove222located on an interior surface of the looped portion214, implant device200D includes two or more grooves230located on an interior surface of the looped portion214that are similar to the single groove222.

The quantity of grooves230located on an interior surface of the looped portion214may include any suitable quantity of grooves230. In some embodiments, the quantity of grooves230corresponds to the quantity of threads130included on the bulbous portion114of an implant device100B.

The looped portion214with the plurality of grooves220, in some embodiments, is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a single groove122. In additional or alternative embodiments, the looped portion214with the plurality of grooves230is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a plurality of grooves130, a substantially smooth exterior surface132, and/or a smooth exterior surface132.

Referring toFIG.2E,FIG.2Eis a diagram illustrating an example implant device200C in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device200E may include a shaft portion202with a first end204including a looped portion214defining an aperture215and a second end206with a nail portion226similar to the implant device200B and an aperture228in the nail portion226at the second end206similar to the implant device200C, as discussed elsewhere herein. In various embodiments, implant device200E further includes, among other components, a plurality of grooves230located on an interior surface of the looped portion214similar to implant device200D, as discussed elsewhere herein.

The looped portion214with the plurality of grooves230, in some embodiments, is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a single groove122. In additional or alternative embodiments, the looped portion214with the plurality of grooves230is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a plurality of grooves130, a substantially smooth exterior surface132, and/or a smooth exterior surface132.

With reference toFIG.2F,FIG.2Fis a diagram illustrating an example implant device200F in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device200F may include a shaft portion202with a first end204including a looped portion214defining an aperture215and further including a second end206similar to the implant device200A and further comprises a smooth, substantially smooth, or nail portion226at the second end206similar to the implant device200B, as discussed elsewhere herein. In various embodiments, implant device200F further comprises, among other components, a substantially smooth (e.g., textured, non-grooved, and/or groove-less, etc.) or smooth (e.g., non-grooved, groove-less, etc.) interior surface232(or substantially smooth or smooth area232) of the looped portion214that defines aperture215.

The looped portion214with the smooth interior surface232, in some embodiments, is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a single groove122. In additional or alternative embodiments, the looped portion214with the smooth interior surface232is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a plurality of grooves130, a substantially smooth exterior surface132, and/or a smooth exterior surface132.

Referring toFIG.2G,FIG.2Gis a diagram illustrating an example implant device200C in accordance with various embodiments. Implant device200G may include a shaft portion202with a first end204including a looped portion214defining an aperture215and a second end206with a nail portion226similar to the implant device200B and an aperture228in the nail portion226at the second end206similar to the implant device200C, as discussed elsewhere herein. In various embodiments, implant device200G further includes, among other components, a looped portion214with a smooth interior surface232similar to implant device200F, as discussed elsewhere herein.

The looped portion214with the smooth interior surface232, in some embodiments, is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a single groove122. In additional or alternative embodiments, the looped portion214with the smooth interior surface232is configured to house and/or accommodate an implant device100that includes a bulbous portion114that includes a plurality of grooves130, a substantially smooth exterior surface132, and/or a smooth exterior surface132.

With reference now toFIGS.3A and3B,FIGS.3A and3Billustrate an anteroposterior view and a lateral view, respectively, of an example implant assembly300A in accordance with various embodiments. As shown, implant assembly300A can comprise implant device100A and implant device200A.

In some embodiments, implant device100A and implant device200A may comprise the same material. In further embodiments, implant device100A and implant device200A can comprise different materials.

In accordance with various embodiments of implant assembly300A, the implant device200A may be initially implanted into a bone or a joint during use. For instance, the screw portion216of the implant device200A may be implanted or screwed into a bone or joint using an implant tool.

Further, the implant device100A may subsequently be inserted through aperture215, the screw portion116first, until the bulbous portion214is seated inside the aperture215. Once seated within the aperture215, the implant device100A may be rotated by inserting an appropriate tool, as discussed elsewhere herein, inside the mechanism126and rotating or twisting the tool so that the thread122or threads122engage and couple to the groove222and/or grooves222.

The implant device100A may be rotated until the bulbous portion114is sufficiently coupled to the looped portion214of the implant device214and/or a last thread128in the plurality threads128of the screw portion116that is capable of engaging a bone/joint is engaged (e.g., is screwed into the bone/joint), the screw(s)122of the implant device100A may be engaged with the grove(s)222of the implant device200A to lock or couple implant devices100A and200A together. A last thread in the plurality threads128of the screw portion116that is capable of engaging a bone/joint may be the thread that is farthest from the second end206and/or the second terminal axis212of implant device200A or may be any other thread in the plurality threads128.

In various embodiments, implant devices100A and200A may be implanted or screwed into the same bone or joint, different bones or joints, or in a bone and a joint, as needed or desired. In some embodiments, a self-correcting mechanism in the looped portion214, as discussed elsewhere herein, may assist in ensuring that the implant device100A is inserted through aperture215and implanted or screwed into the bone or joint at the proper angle and/or trajectory.

An angle302may be created between the horizontal axis108of the implant device100A and the horizontal axis208of the implant device200A when the single-thread(s)122and the single-groove(s)222are engaged with one another. The angle302, in various embodiments, can be any suitable and/or desired angle in the range of about 30° to about 150°, although other angles and/or ranges are possible and contemplated herein. In some embodiments, the angle302may be in the range of about 62° to about 68°, among other example angles and/or ranges. In one embodiment, the angle302may be about 65°, among other possible angles that are contemplated herein.

While the use of a standard thread-groove screw engagement has been described in various embodiments herein, a reverse thread-groove screw engagement may be possible and is contemplated herein for various embodiments. For instance, the single-thread(s)122in the implant device100A and the single-groove(s)222in the implant device200A, in some embodiments, may be reverse threaded and correspond to one another. In further embodiments, the plurality of threads128in the implant device100A and/or the plurality of threads in the implant device200A may be reverse threaded.

A single-thread/single-groove screw engagement utilizing, for example, a single thread122and a single-groove222can allow the implant devices100A and200A to be more easily engaged, locked, and/or coupled to one another, can allow the implant devices100A and200A to be more accurately engaged, locked, and/or coupled to one another, can be more efficient, can require less work, and/or can provide a stronger, more stable, and/or more secure locking connection than other technologies and/or techniques. Further, a single-thread/multi-groove engagement using, for example, a single thread122and multiple single-grooves222can provide similar benefits as a single-thread/single-groove engagement and may provide one or more added features and/or one or more further improvements. In addition, multi-single-thread/multi-single-groove engagements using, for example, multiple single-threads122and multiple single-grooves222can provide similar benefits as a single-thread/single-groove engagement and/or a single-thread/multi-groove engagement and may provide one or more added features and/or one or more further improvements.

Referring toFIGS.3C and3D,FIGS.3C and3Dillustrate an anteroposterior view and a lateral view, respectively, of an example implant assembly300B in accordance with various embodiments. As shown, implant assembly300B can comprise implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G.

In the various embodiments, the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G is implanted or inserted (via the nail portion226) into a bone by striking (e.g., tapping, driving, hammering, nailing, pounding, and/or otherwise similarly inserted) the looped portion214to drive the tip and at least a portion of the nail portion226into the bone. Implant device100A is placed and/or inserted through aperture215defined by looped portion214of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G and then implanted/inserted into the same bone and/or a different bone as the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. The implant device100A is implanted or screwed (via one or more threads128in the screw portion116) into the bone while a portion of implant device100A is inserted through aperture215by applying a rotational force to the mechanism126.

The implant device100A and the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G may be engaged with one another by engaging the single thread122on the exterior surface of the bulbous portion114of implant device100A with a single groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200B and200C), a plurality of grooves230on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200D and200E), or a substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200F and200G). That is, the rotational force can be applied to the mechanism126until the bulbous portion114and the looped portion214are secured (e.g., tightly secured) and/or abut one another via the single thread122and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230, or the substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232. Further, the implant assembly300B may be utilized similar to the implant assembly300A, as discussed elsewhere herein.

With reference toFIGS.3E and3F,FIGS.3E and3Fillustrate an anteroposterior view and a lateral view, respectively, of an example implant assembly300C in accordance with various embodiments. As shown, implant assembly300C can comprise implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G.

In the various embodiments, the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G is implanted or inserted (via the nail portion226) into a bone by striking (e.g., tapping, driving, hammering, nailing, pounding, and/or otherwise similarly inserted) the looped portion214to drive the tip and at least a portion of the nail portion226into the bone. Implant device100B is placed and/or inserted through aperture215defined by looped portion214of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G and then implanted/inserted into the same bone and/or a different bone as the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. The implant device100B is implanted or screwed (via one or more threads128in the screw portion116) into the bone while a portion of implant device100B is inserted through aperture215by applying a rotational force to the mechanism126.

The implant device100B and the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G may be engaged with one another by engaging the plurality of thread130on the exterior surface of the bulbous portion114of implant device100B with a single groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200B and200C), a plurality of grooves230on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200D and200E), or a substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200F and200G). That is, the rotational force can be applied to the mechanism126until the bulbous portion114and the looped portion214are secured (e.g., tightly secured) and/or abut one another via the plurality of threads130and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230, or the substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232. Further, the implant assembly300C may be utilized similar to the implant assembly300A, as discussed elsewhere herein.

Referring toFIGS.3G and3H,FIGS.3G and3Hillustrate an anteroposterior view and a lateral view, respectively, of an example implant assembly300D in accordance with various embodiments. As shown, implant assembly300D can comprise implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G.

In the various embodiments, the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G is implanted or inserted (via the nail portion226) into a bone by striking (e.g., tapping, driving, hammering, nailing, pounding, and/or otherwise similarly inserted) the looped portion214to drive the tip and at least a portion of the nail portion226into the bone. Implant device100C is placed and/or inserted through aperture215defined by looped portion214of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G and then implanted/inserted into the same bone and/or a different bone as the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. The implant device100C is implanted or screwed (via one or more threads128in the screw portion116) into the bone while a portion of implant device100C is inserted through aperture215by applying a rotational force to the mechanism126.

The implant device100C and the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G may be engaged with one another by engaging the substantially smooth or smooth exterior surface of the bulbous portion114of implant device100C with a single groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200B and200C), a plurality of grooves230on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200D and200E), or a substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200F and200G). That is, the rotational force can be applied to the mechanism126until the bulbous portion114and the looped portion214are secured (e.g., tightly secured) and/or abut one another via the smooth/substantially smooth bulbous portion114and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230, or the substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232. Further, the implant assembly300D may be utilized similar to the implant assembly300A, as discussed elsewhere herein.

With reference toFIG.4,FIG.4is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method400for implanting implant device200A. At least in the illustrated embodiment, method400begins by providing an implant device200A that includes a looped portion214and a screw portion216(block402).

The method400further includes implanting the implant device200A into a portion of bone via the screw portion216(block404). The implant device200A may be implanted by applying a rotational force to the looped portion214of the implant device200A until the screw portion216is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the bone, as discussed elsewhere herein.

Referring toFIG.5,FIG.5is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method500for implanting an implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. At least in the illustrated embodiment, method500begins by providing an implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G that includes a looped portion214and a nail portion226(block502).

The method500further includes implanting the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G into a portion of bone via the nail portion226(block504). The implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G may be implanted by striking the looped portion214of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G until a tip and at least a portion of the nail portion226is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the bone, as discussed elsewhere herein.

With reference toFIG.6,FIG.6is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method600for compressing a set of bones utilizing an implant assembly300A. At least in the illustrated embodiment, method600begins by providing an implant device200A that includes a looped portion214and a screw portion216(block602).

The implant device200A is then implanted into a first portion of bone via the screw portion216(block604). The implant device200A may be implanted by applying a rotational force to the looped portion214of the implant device200A until the screw portion216is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the bone, as discussed elsewhere herein.

Method600further includes providing an implant device100A that includes a bulbous portion114and a screw portion116(block606). The implant device100A is inserted through the looped portion of the implant device200A (block608) and implanted into a second portion of bone (block610), which can be the same bone or different bone as implant device200A.

The implant devices100A and200A are locked and/or engaged with one another via the single thread122on the exterior surface of the bulbous portion114and the single groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214(block612). In various embodiments, implant devices100A and200A are locked and/or engaged with one another by applying a rotational force to the mechanism126on the implant device100A until the screw portion116is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the bone and the single thread122and the single groove222are secured to one another, as discussed elsewhere herein. When engaged, the implant devices100A and200A can provide a force and/or compression to the set of bones (e.g., one or more bones) into which the implant devices100A and200A are implanted to assist in healing and/or repairing the bone(s).

In some embodiments, locking the implant devices100A and200A includes facilitating locking the implant devices100A and200A. Here, facilitating locking the implant devices100A and200A can include providing tools, instructions, and/or other means for locking the implant devices100A and200A. In other embodiments, locking the implant devices100A and200A includes both facilitating locking the implant devices100A and200A and actually locking the implant devices100A and200A, as discussed above.

Referring toFIG.7,FIG.7is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method700for compressing a set of bones utilizing an implant assembly300B. At least in the illustrated embodiment, method700begins by providing an implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G that includes a looped portion214and a nail portion226(block702).

The implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G is then implanted into a first portion of bone via the nail portion226(block704). The implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G may be implanted by striking the looped portion214of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G until a tip and at least a portion of the nail portion226is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the first portion of bone, as discussed elsewhere herein.

Method700further includes providing an implant device100A that includes a bulbous portion114and a screw portion116(block706). The implant device100A is inserted through the looped portion of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G (block708) and implanted into a second portion of bone (block710), which can be the same bone or different bone as implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G.

The implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are locked and/or engaged with one another via the single thread122on the exterior surface of the bulbous portion114and a single groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200B and200C), a plurality of grooves230on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200D and200E), or a substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200F and200G) (block712). That is, the rotational force can be applied to the mechanism126until the bulbous portion114and the looped portion214are secured (e.g., tightly secured) and/or abut one another via the single groove122and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230, or the substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232.

In various embodiments, implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are locked and/or engaged with one another by applying a rotational force to the mechanism126on the implant device100A until the screw portion116is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the bone and the single thread122and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230or the smooth/substantially smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214are secured to one another, as discussed elsewhere herein. When engaged, the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G can provide a force and/or compression to the set of bones (e.g., one or more bones) into which the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are implanted to assist in healing and/or repairing the bone(s).

In some embodiments, locking the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G includes facilitating locking the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. Here, facilitating locking the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G can include providing tools, instructions, and/or other means for locking the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. In other embodiments, locking the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G includes both facilitating locking the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G and actually locking the implant device100A and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G, as discussed above.

Referring toFIG.8,FIG.8is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method800for compressing a set of bones utilizing an implant assembly300C. At least in the illustrated embodiment, method800begins by providing an implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G that includes a looped portion214and a nail portion226(block802).

The implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G is then implanted into a first portion of bone via the nail portion226(block804). The implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G may be implanted by striking the looped portion214of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G until a tip and at least a portion of the nail portion226is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the first portion of bone, as discussed elsewhere herein.

Method800further includes providing an implant device100B that includes a bulbous portion114and a screw portion116(block806). The implant device100B is inserted through the looped portion of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G (block808) and implanted into a second portion of bone (block810), which can be the same bone or different bone as implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G.

The implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are locked and/or engaged with one another via the plurality of threads130on the exterior surface of the bulbous portion114and a single groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200B and200C), a plurality of grooves230on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200D and200E), or a substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200F and200G) (block812). That is, the rotational force can be applied to the mechanism126until the bulbous portion114and the looped portion214are secured (e.g., tightly secured) and/or abut one another via the plurality of grooves130and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230, or the substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232.

In various embodiments, implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are locked and/or engaged with one another by applying a rotational force to the mechanism126on the implant device100B until the screw portion116is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the bone and the plurality of threads130and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230or the smooth/substantially smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214are secured to one another, as discussed elsewhere herein. When engaged, the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G can provide a force and/or compression to the set of bones (e.g., one or more bones) into which the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are implanted to assist in healing and/or repairing the bone(s).

In some embodiments, locking the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G includes facilitating locking the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. Here, facilitating locking the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G can include providing tools, instructions, and/or other means for locking the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. In other embodiments, locking the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G includes both facilitating locking the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G and actually locking the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G, as discussed above.

With reference toFIG.9,FIG.9is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method900for compressing a set of bones utilizing an implant assembly300D. At least in the illustrated embodiment, method900begins by providing an implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G that includes a looped portion214and a nail portion226(block902).

The implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G is then implanted into a first portion of bone via the nail portion226(block904). The implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G may be implanted by striking the looped portion214of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G until a tip and at least a portion of the nail portion226is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the first portion of bone, as discussed elsewhere herein.

Method900further includes providing an implant device100C that includes a bulbous portion114and a screw portion116(block906). The implant device100C is inserted through the looped portion of the implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G (block908) and implanted into a second portion of bone (block910), which can be the same bone or different bone as implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G.

The implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are locked and/or engaged with one another via the smooth/substantially smooth exterior surface132of the bulbous portion114and a single groove222on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200B and200C), a plurality of grooves230on the interior surface of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200D and200E), or a substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214(e.g., implant devices200F and200G) (block912). That is, the rotational force can be applied to the mechanism126until the bulbous portion114and the looped portion214are secured (e.g., tightly secured) and/or abut one another via the smooth/substantially smooth interior surface232and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230, or the substantially smooth or smooth interior surface232.

In various embodiments, implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are locked and/or engaged with one another by applying a rotational force to the mechanism126on the implant device100C until the screw portion116is securely engaged, embedded, and/or implanted into the bone and the smooth/substantially smooth exterior surface132of the bulbous portion114and the single groove222, the plurality of grooves230or the smooth/substantially smooth interior surface232of the looped portion214are secured to one another, as discussed elsewhere herein. When engaged, the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G can provide a force and/or compression to the set of bones (e.g., one or more bones) into which the implant device100B and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G are implanted to assist in healing and/or repairing the bone(s).

In some embodiments, locking the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G includes facilitating locking the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. Here, facilitating locking the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G can include providing tools, instructions, and/or other means for locking the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G. In other embodiments, locking the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G includes both facilitating locking the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G and actually locking the implant device100C and implant device200B,200C,200D,200E,200F, or200G, as discussed above.