Patent ID: 7105029

Claim:
A modular implant for supporting a prosthesis comprising an anchor element adapted to be attached to a skeletal bone and a support element adapted for connection with an ancillary device, said anchor element and said support element having cooperating coupling components for linear engagement whereby engaging said cooperating coupling components of said anchor element and said support element form a secure connection which transmits no force to the skeletal bone, wherein said anchor element has one end portion for attachment to a bone and another end portion supporting a shank, said shank having at least one tapered surface, said support element including a portion having a complementary tapered surface, said tapered surface and said complementary tapered surface comprise said cooperating coupling components whereby linear force along said cooperating coupling components ramps said tapered surface and said complementary tapered surface together forming a secure connection transmitting no torque to said anchor element, wherein said shank has a circumferential tapered surface and said support element has a ring with an internal complementary tapered surface, said ring adapted to fit over said shank with said internal tapered surface engaging said circumferential tapered surface whereby said linear force displaces said internal complementary tapered surface and said circumferential tapered surface into fixed intimate contact.