Artificial toe joint

Abstract

An artificial toe joint utilizes a ball in socket joint structure and arms or side walls which are exterior to the bone. The resulting joint provides improved strength and durability, and may be used to repair joints which are not suitable for installation of a prior art artificial joint.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001]The application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 889,195, filed Feb. 9, 2007, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. The Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to an improved artificial toe joint. More specifically, the present invention relates to an artificial toe joint providing increased durability and reduced damage to the surrounding bone.[0004]2. State of the Art[0005]Toe joints such as the proximal metatarsal phalangeal joint, the proximal most toe joint of the foot, may become damaged from injury, etc. and may then be replaced. As a toe joint is damaged and deteriorates, symptoms may include loss of propulsion, transfer lesions, metatarsalgia (pain and inflammation of the ball of the foot), gait alterations, pain, etc. Indicators for joint replacement include: hallux limitus, hallux rigidus, hallux abducto valgus, rheumatoid arthritis, os...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]According to one aspect of the present invention, an artificial toe joint is provided which encases the ends of the bones adjacent the joint. By enclosing the ends of the bones adjacent the joint, the artificial joint results in a more stable structure and reduces the stress on the ends of the bone by distributing the stresses along the bone, promoting improved long term success for the artificial joint.

[0015]In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a resurfacing technique is provided which is unlike any other on the current market. This resurfacing is accomplished through the advent of a low profile joint that contours the existing anatomical structures providing minimal bony disruption, placing the articular surface in alignment thus reducing any existing angular deviations, providing anatomical motion, and reducing pain. In addition it is important to note that current joints generally can not compensate for metatarsal length variations. The present invention may include a flexible articulating surface that can be varied in width to compensate for first ray length. When such variances are considered and addressed the resultant mobile and rectus first ray will provide for pain reduction both distally and proximally to the implanted surface.

[0016]According to another aspect of the present invention, enclosing the ends of the bone surrounding the artificial joint may allow the present artificial toe joint to be installed in place of previously installed artificial toe joints which have failed. Such an installation may eliminate the need to fuse the joint. Additionally, the artificial joint of the present invention makes possible the modification of existing fused joints.

Problems solved by technology

In addition it is important to note that current joints generally can not compensate for metatarsal length variations.

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