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Tensioning means for prosthetic devices

  • US 5,108,433 A
  • Filed: 02/22/1991
  • Issued: 04/28/1992
  • Est. Priority Date: 08/18/1989
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method for surgical replacement of a ligament comprising bridging the bones connected by the ligament with a prosthetic ligament attached to bone at one end by a fixed connector and at the opposing end by an adjustable connector, both connectors being adapted to be attached to living bone and adapted to engage the prosthetic ligament, wherein, when the fixed connector and the adjustable connector are attached in position to bone and the prosthetic ligament is positioned therebetween and engaged with both, the tension on the prosthetic ligament can be increased or decreased without disturbing the attachment of either connector to bone and without removal of the prosthetic ligament from either of the connectors, wherein the adjustable connector comprises:

  • an anchor adapted to be attached to living bone and having walls defining a socket;

    a pin comprising a shaft, a head adapted to engage the socket, and a threaded end opposite the head; and

    a cylinder comprising a body, which body (i) has a threaded bore therein, the threaded bore being adapted to engage the threaded end of the pin, and (ii) comprises means for engaging the prosthetic ligament,the device being further characterized in that there exists access to the head of the pin to facilitate adjustment of the adjustable connector,wherein the socket and the head are rounded, permitting swivel movement of the pin.

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