Detachable Tilted Guide for Implant Insertion Tool and Related Surgical Method

Abstract

An angulation guide (10) for use with an implant insertion tool during a surgical procedure includes a one-piece body having: a clip (12) configured to couple to a mounting surface of the implant insertion tool; an elongate riser (14) extending from the clip; and an elongate indicator (16) extending from the elongate riser to a distal end (40). This design allows for an inexpensive and lightweight angulation guide that is easily and quickly adjustable after assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to orthopaedic surgical instruments, and more particularly, to surgical instruments for trialing and installing acetabular cup components. Background Art

[0002] Arthroplasty is a well-known surgical procedure, and can replace sick and / or damaged natural joints with prosthetic joints by arthroplasty.For example, in hip arthroplasty surgery, the natural hip joint ball and socket joint of the patient is partially or completely replaced by the prosthetic hip joint joint.Typical prosthetic hip joint joint comprises acetabular cup component and femoral head component.Acetabular cup component generally comprises an outer shell and an inner bearing member or inner lining, and this outer shell is configured to engage the acetabulum of the patient, and this inner bearing member or inner lining is connected to this shell and is configured to engage the femoral head.The inner lining of femoral head component and acetabular component forms the ball and socket joint close to the natural hip joint joint.

[0003] In order to facilitate the replacement of the natural joint with a prosthetic hip joint, an orthopaedic surgeon may use a variety of orthopaedic surgical instruments, such as, for example, reamer, drilling guide, drill, locator, insertion tool and / or other surgical instruments. An acetabular prosthetic component insert is typically used to insert the acetabular component into the patient's acetabulum. Poor alignment of the acetabular prosthetic component relative to the patient's bone anatomy may cause the prosthetic hip joint to loosen and / or dislocate over time and with use. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to one aspect, an angled guide for use with an implant insertion tool during a surgical procedure includes a unitary body having: a clip configured to be coupled to a mounting surface of the implant insertion tool; an elongated riser extending from the clip to a first engagement portion; and an elongated indicator extending from the first engagement portion of the elongated riser to a distal end. The clip defines an internal volume and an imaginary tool axis extending through the internal volume. The elongated riser extends from the clip away from the imaginary tool axis to the first end. The elongated indicator and the imaginary tool axis define an indication angle.

[0005] In an embodiment, the unitary body is a molded polymer body. The unitary body may be formed from polyphenylsulfone (PPSU). In another embodiment, the unitary body may be formed from a metallic material.

[0006] In an embodiment, the clip includes: a first curved arm extending away from the elongated riser to a first end; and a second curved arm extending away from the elongated riser to a second end. The first curved arm and the second curved arm cooperate to define an interior volume. The first end and the second end cooperate to define a slot that enables access to the interior volume.

[0007] In an embodiment, a first rounded flange is included on a first end of the first curved arm, and a second rounded flange is included on a second end of the second curved arm. Each of the first rounded flange and the second rounded flange curves away from the slot.

[0008] In an embodiment, each of a first end of the first curved arm and a second end of the second curved arm has a chamfered edge. The chamfered edge is configured to engage an implant insertion tool and to urge the slot to open when engaged with the implant insertion tool.

[0009] In an embodiment, the first curved arm and the second curved arm can define a planar-recessed inner surface configured to engage a cylindrical mounting surface of an implant insertion tool. In another embodiment, the first curved arm and the second curved arm can define a tapered recessed inner surface configured to engage a frustoconical mounting surface of an implant insertion tool.

[0010] In an embodiment, the clip includes an inner surface that faces the mounting surface of the implant insertion tool when the clip is coupled to the mounting surface. The inner surface includes three contact points, and each of the three contact points is configured to engage the mounting surface of the implant insertion tool.

[0011] In an embodiment, the clip includes a first tooth and a second tooth that extend inwardly from the inner surface of the clip toward an imaginary tool axis into an inner volume. The first tooth and the second tooth are configured to engage corresponding grooves of the mounting surface. The mounting surface can include a plurality of ridges parallel to the imaginary tool axis. Each pair of ridges is separated by a groove.

[0012] In an embodiment, the clip includes: a first curved arm that extends away from an elongate riser to a first end; and a second curved arm that extends away from the elongate riser to a second end. The first curved arm and the second curved arm cooperate to define an inner volume. The first end and the second end cooperate to define a slot that enables access to the inner volume. The first tooth is located on the first end of the first curved arm, and the second tooth is located on the second end of the second curved arm.

[0013] According to another aspect, a method of performing an orthopedic procedure on a surgically prepared acetabulum of a patient's hip joint includes: attaching an angled guide separate from an implant insertion tool to the implant insertion tool by inserting a portion of the implant insertion tool through a slot in a clip of the angled guide; in response to attaching the angled guide, inserting a distal end of the implant insertion tool into the surgically prepared acetabulum of the patient's hip joint; and measuring an angled of the implant insertion tool using an elongate indicator of the angled guide when the distal end of the implant insertion tool is inserted into the surgically prepared acetabulum.

[0014] In an embodiment, the method may further include rotating the angled guide about a tool axis defined by a body of the implant insertion tool after attaching the angled guide. Measuring the angled may be performed after rotating the angled guide.

[0015] In an embodiment, attaching the angled guide includes engaging teeth of the clip with a first groove of a mounting surface of the implant insertion tool, and rotating the angled guide includes moving the teeth of the clip from the first groove to a second groove of the mounting surface. The mounting surface includes a plurality of ridges parallel to the tool axis, and each pair of ridges is separated by a groove.

[0016] In another embodiment, the method further includes sliding the angled guide in a direction along the tool axis of the implant insertion tool after attaching the angled guide such that an inner surface of the clip engages a frustoconical mounting surface of the implant insertion tool.

[0017] In an embodiment, attaching the angled guide includes pressing a pair of rounded flanges on each end of the clip.

[0018] In an embodiment, the method further includes removing the angled guide by moving the portion of the implant insertion tool out through the slot in the clip after measuring the angled. Removing the angled guide may include pulling a pair of rounded flanges on each end of the clip. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The detailed description specifically refers to the following drawings, wherein:

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an alignment guide for use with an implant insertion tool;

[0021] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a side view of the alignment guide and the implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide positioned near the implant insertion tool and in the process of being attached to the implant insertion tool;

[0022] Figure 3 is Figures 1 to 2Side view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide clamped or attached to the implant insertion tool;

[0023] Figure 4 is Figures 1 to 3 Rear view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide rotated about the axis of the implant insertion tool;

[0024] Figure 5 is Figures 1 to 4 Side view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide locked onto the implant insertion tool;

[0025] Figure 6 Perspective view of another illustrative embodiment of an alignment guide for use with an implant insertion tool;

[0026] Figure 7 is Figure 6 Side view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide positioned near the implant insertion tool and in the process of being attached to the implant insertion tool;

[0027] Figure 8 is Figures 6 to 7 Side view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide locked onto the implant insertion tool;

[0028] Figure 9 Perspective view of another illustrative embodiment of an alignment guide for an implant insertion tool;

[0029] Figure 10 is Figure 9 Side view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide positioned near the implant insertion tool and in the process of being attached to the implant insertion tool;

[0030] Figure 11 is Figures 9 to 10 Side view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide locked onto the implant insertion tool;

[0031] Figure 12 is Figures 9 to 11 Rear view of the alignment guide and implant insertion tool, showing the alignment guide rotated about the axis of the implant insertion tool; and

[0032] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the acetabular cup component being installed in the acetabulum of a patient's hip joint using Figures 1 to 12 the alignment guide and implant insertion tool.

[0033] While the concepts of the present disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific exemplary embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the concepts of the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative forms falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0034] Terms indicating anatomical references (such as anterior, posterior, medial, lateral, superior, inferior, etc.) may be used throughout the present invention to refer to both the orthopedic implants described herein and the natural anatomical structures of the patient. Such terms have well-known meanings in both anatomical studies and the field of orthopedic surgery. Unless otherwise specified, such anatomical reference terms used in the specification and claims are intended to conform to their well-known meanings.

[0035] Now referring Figures 1 to 5 , there is shown an alignment guide 10 for use with an implant insertion tool 44 for inserting an acetabular cup component into a patient's acetabulum during an orthopedic surgical procedure. As will be described in more detail below, the alignment guide 10 is configured to be assembled with the implant insertion tool 44, and the radial angle of the alignment guide 10 can be adjusted after assembly as desired by an orthopedic surgeon or caregiver. As further described below, the alignment guide 10 can be used with various different types of insertion tools, including straight and curved implant insertion tools. Thus, the alignment guide 10 can improve ease of use and reduce operating time while accommodating the preferences of the surgeon. Additionally, in some embodiments, the alignment guide 10 can be constructed of a low-cost lightweight material. It should be understood that although the concepts of the present disclosure are described herein with respect to an implant insertion tool for orthopedic hip surgery, the concepts of the present disclosure can be used in the design of other types of alignment guides, particularly for other surgeries requiring lateral alignment.

[0036] The illustrative alignment guide 10 has a one-piece body formed of a single-piece molded polymer. For example, the alignment guide 10 can be formed of a sulfone polymer such as polyphenylsulfone (PPSU). Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the alignment guide 10 can be formed of any elastomeric polymer material. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the alignment guide 10 can be formed of a metallic material.

[0037] The alignment guide 10 includes a clip 12, a riser 14, and an elongate indicator 16. The clip 12 includes a pair of curved arms 18, 20 that define an internal volume 22 and an imaginary axis 24 that extends through the internal volume 22. The arms 18, 20 include an internal surface 26 that extends from a distal end 28 of the arm 18 to a distal end 30 of the arm 20. The ends 28, 30 define a slot 32 therebetween through which access to the internal volume 22 is provided.

[0038] As described further below, when the alignment guide 10 is coupled to the implant insertion tool 44, a portion of the implant insertion tool 44 passes through the slot 32 into the internal volume 22 and the internal surfaces 26 of the arms 18, 20 contact or engage corresponding mounting surfaces of the implant insertion tool 44. Each end 28, 30 of the corresponding arms 18, 20 includes a corresponding chamfered edge 34, 36. Since the slot 32 is undersized relative to the body of the insertion tool 44, the arms 18, 20 are urged apart when the chamfered edges 34, 36 engage the body of the implant insertion tool 44, which increases the width of the slot 32 and allows the implant insertion tool 44 to enter the internal volume 22, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown.

[0039] The riser 14 of the alignment guide 10 extends away from the clip 12 perpendicular to the axis 24 toward the sharp turn junction 38. Although the illustrative riser 14 is embodied as a post that extends perpendicular to the clip 12, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the riser 14 may have another shape and / or extend away from the axis 24 at another angle. Additionally, in some embodiments, the riser 14 may be adapted to provide a gripping surface for the surgeon, for example, by including a bulge, knurling, or other gripping enhancement feature.

[0040] The indicator 16 extends from the sharp turn junction 38 of the riser 14 to a distal end 40. The illustrative indicator 16 is embodied as a post; however, similar to the riser 14, in other embodiments, the indicator 16 may be shaped otherwise. The indicator 16 and the axis 24 define an indication angle 42. The illustrative indication angle 42 is defined as 35 degrees; however, in other embodiments, the indication angle 42 may be 40 degrees or another angle. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the indication angle 42 may be molded into the clip 12 or otherwise visually indicated on the alignment guide 10 by a label or text. As described further below, the surgeon may use the indicator 16 to visually measure and confirm the tilt angle of the acetabular cup when it is installed in the patient's hip joint. The surgeon may select between multiple alignment guides 10 based on the desired indication angle 42.

[0041] Specific indication angle 42 can be selected based on the expected surgical approach, the expected final tilt angle of acetabular cup, the patient's hip joint relative to the alignment of the operating table and / or other factors. For example, in some embodiments, the angle of the patient's hip joint, the expected final tilt angle of acetabular cup and the indication angle 42 can sum to 90 degree (that is, vertical with respect to the operating room). As an example, for the posterior surgical approach, the patient's alignment angle can be 10 degree, the expected final tilt angle of acetabular cup can be 45 degree, and the indication angle 42 can be 35 degree, so that when the acetabular cup is correctly aligned to 45 degree, the indicator 16 is substantially vertical with respect to the operating room. As another example, for the anterior surgical approach, the patient's alignment angle can be five degrees, the expected final tilt angle of acetabular cup can be 45 degree, and the indication angle 42 can be 40 degree. Of course, other angles can be used.

[0042] Reference now Figures 2 to 5 In use, the alignment guide 10 can be attached to an implant insertion tool 44, as described above. The illustrative implant insertion tool 44 has an elongated metal body 46 having an impact head 48 on its proximal end and an attachment mechanism 50 on its distal end. The body 46 defines an imaginary tool axis 52 extending from the attachment mechanism 50 to the impact head 48. The implant insertion tool 44 can have a straight body 46, or a body similar to Figures 10 to 12 As with the tool shown in FIG. 4 , in some embodiments, the body 46 may be curved, for example to avoid patient anatomy.

[0043] The impact head 48 of the implant insertion tool 44 is illustratively embodied as a metal impact plate formed in the body 46. However, it should be understood that the impact plate can be embodied as a separate component welded or otherwise fixed to the body 46. In use, the surgeon holds the assembled implant insertion tool 44 via the body 46 and strikes the impact head 48 with a surgical mallet, a sledgehammer or other impact tool to drive the acetabular cup component 70 into the patient's surgically prepared acetabular surface 74 (see Figure 13 ).

[0044] The body 46 includes a mounting surface 54 formed on a portion of the body 46. The illustrative mounting surface 54 embodies a conical frustum; however, in other embodiments, the mounting surface 54 can be cylindrical or have other shapes. The body 46 further includes an attachment section 56 adjacent the mounting surface 54. In the illustrative embodiment, the attachment section 56 is narrower than the mounting surface 54 in at least one dimension. For example, the illustrative attachment section 56 includes flat sides 58, 60 that oppose each other to reduce the width of the attachment section 56.

[0045] In use, the alignment guide 10 can be used by a surgeon in conjunction with the implant insertion tool 44 to implant the acetabular cup component 70 into the surgically prepared acetabulum 84 of a patient (see Figure 13 ). As Figure 3 shown, the alignment guide 10 can be coupled, attached, or otherwise clamped to the implant insertion tool 44 at the attachment section 56. To this end, a surgeon or other user places the clip 12 of the alignment guide 10 in contact with the attachment section 56 and then presses the alignment guide 10 downward in direction 62 toward the implant insertion tool 44. Illustratively, when the alignment guide 10 contacts the implant insertion tool 44, the chamfered edges 34, 36 engage the flat sides 58, 60 of the attachment portion 56 and force the slot 32 to open to allow the attachment section 56 to enter the internal volume 22. The surgeon can slide the alignment guide 10 onto the implant insertion tool 44 in direction 62 until the inner surface 26 contacts the implant insertion tool 44. After contacting the implant insertion tool 44, the clip 12 surrounds the tool axis 52.

[0046] In some embodiments, as Figure 4 shown, a surgeon or other user can rotate the alignment guide 10 about the tool axis 52. Since the mounting surface 54 and the inner surface 26 are relatively smooth, the alignment guide 10 can be freely rotated about the tool axis 52 to any angle 64. The surgeon can select the angle based on personal preference to adjust to the patient's anatomy or for other reasons.

[0047] As Figure 5 shown, after selecting the appropriate rotation angle, the surgeon or other user presses or slides the alignment guide 10 in direction 66 toward the mounting surface 54. When the alignment guide 10 is moved onto the mounting surface 54, the tapered inner surface 26 of the alignment guide 10 engages against the frustoconical mounting surface 54 of the implant insertion tool 44. In the illustrative embodiment, the inner surface 26 is formed to contact the mounting surface 54 at three contact points 68 of the inner surface 26. The contact points 68 can be formed, for example, via protrusions, tabs, ridges, or other features protruding from the inner surface 26. Of course, in other embodiments, additional contact points 68 can be used.

[0048] When engaged, the alignment guide 10 establishes a friction lock on the mounting surface 54 and is in place. After being locked in place, due to the frictional force between the alignment guide 10 and the implant insertion tool 44, the alignment guide 10 remains at the rotation angle 64 selected by the surgeon. The surgeon can unlock the alignment guide 10 by moving the alignment guide 10 in a direction opposite to direction 66, which allows the surgeon to adjust the rotation angle of the alignment guide 10. Although in Figures 2 to 5is shown as establishing a tapered fit, but it should be understood that in other embodiments, the alignment guide 10 can be clamped to the implant insertion tool 44 using any suitable interference fit. For example, as described below in connection with Figures 6 to 12 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an alignment guide 10 attached to an implant insertion tool 44 using an interference fit.

[0049] Now referring to Figures 6 to 8 , an alignment guide 100 is shown for use with an implant insertion tool for inserting an acetabular cup component into a patient's acetabulum during an orthopedic surgical procedure. Similar to the alignment guide 10, the exemplary alignment guide 100 has a one-piece body formed from a single-piece molded polymer. For example, the alignment guide 100 can be formed from a sulfone polymer such as polyphenylsulfone (PPSU). Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the alignment guide 100 can be formed from any elastomeric polymer material. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the alignment guide 100 can be formed from a metallic material.

[0050] Also similar to the alignment guide 10, the alignment guide 100 includes a clip 12, a riser 14, and an elongate indicator 16. The clip 12 includes a pair of curved arms 18, 20 that define an internal volume 22 and a virtual axis 24 that extends through the internal volume 22. The arms 18, 20 include an inner surface 26 that extends from the distal end 28 of the arm 18 to the distal end 30 of the arm 20. The ends 28, 30 define a slot 32 therebetween through which the internal volume 22 is accessible. The inner surface 26 forms a planar-recessed bend that engages a cylindrical mounting surface 154 of the insertion tool 144, as described further below.

[0051] As described further below, when the alignment guide 100 is coupled to the implant insertion tool 144, the mounting surface 154 of the implant insertion tool 144 passes through the slot 32 into the internal volume 22, and the inner surfaces 26 of the arms 18, 20 contact or engage the mounting surface 154. The exemplary arms 18, 20 further include rounded flanges 102, 104 at the respective ends 28, 30. The flanges 102, 104 curve away from the slot 32 and can allow for easy attachment or removal of the alignment guide 100 similar to the chamfered edges 34, 36 of the alignment guide 10. For example, when the rounded flanges 102, 104 engage the body of the implant insertion tool 144, the arms 18, 20 are urged apart, which increases the width of the slot 32 and allows the implant insertion tool 144 to enter the internal volume 22, as Figure 7 and Figure 8In addition, the surgeon can press or pull the flanges 102, 104 to easily attach or remove the alignment guide 100, respectively. The illustrative clip 12 includes a pressure relief opening 106 between the arms 18, 20 that allows the arms 18, 20 to separate.

[0052] The riser 14 of the alignment guide 100 extends away from the clip 12 and the axis 24 toward the sharp turn joint 38. The illustrative riser 14 includes a set of protrusions or ridges 108 formed in the surface of the riser 14 to provide a gripping surface for the surgeon. The illustrative riser 14 is formed to be hollow. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the riser 14 can be solid or otherwise shaped. For example, in some embodiments, the riser 14 can be embodied as a rod extending from the clip 12 to the sharp turn joint 38, similar to the riser 14 of the alignment guide 10.

[0053] The indicator 16 extends from the sharp turn joint 38 of the riser 14 to the distal end 40. The illustrative indicator 16 is formed to be hollow; however, similar to the riser 14, in other embodiments, the indicator 16 can be solid or otherwise formed. The indicator 16 and the axis 24 define an indication angle 42. The illustrative indication angle 42 is defined as 35 degrees; however, in other embodiments, the indication angle 42 can be 40 degrees or another angle. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the indication angle 42 can be molded into the clip 12 or otherwise visually indicated on the alignment guide 100 by a label or text. As further described below, the surgeon can use the indicator 16 to visually measure and confirm the tilt angle of the acetabular cup when installed in the patient's hip joint. The surgeon can select between multiple alignment guides 10 based on the desired indication angle 42. The surgeon can select a specific indication angle 42 as described above in conjunction with the alignment guide 10.

[0054] Reference now Figures 7 to 8 In use, the alignment guide 100 can be attached to the implant insertion tool 144, as described above. Figures 2 to 5 The implant insertion tool 144 has an elongated metal body 146 having an impact head 148 on its proximal end and an attachment mechanism 150 on its distal end. The body 146 defines an imaginary tool axis 152 extending from the attachment mechanism 150 to the impact head 148. The implant insertion tool 144 can have a straight body 146 or a body similar to Figures 10 to 12 As with the tool shown in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the body 146 may be curved, for example to avoid patient anatomy. The body 146 includes a mounting surface 154 formed on a section of the body 146. The illustrative mounting surface 154 is cylindrical.

[0055] The impact head 148 of the implant insertion tool 144 is illustratively embodied as a metal impact plate formed in the body 146. However, it should be understood that the impact plate can be embodied as a separate component welded or otherwise secured to the body 146. In use, the surgeon holds the assembled implant insertion tool 144 by the body 146 and uses a surgical mallet, sledgehammer, or other impact tool to strike the impact head 148 to drive the acetabular cup component 70 into the surgically prepared acetabular surface 74 of the patient (see Figure 13 ).

[0056] In use, the alignment guide 100 can be used by the surgeon with the implant insertion tool 144 to implant the acetabular cup component 70 into the surgically prepared acetabulum 84 of the patient (see Figure 13 ). As Figure 8 shown, the alignment guide 100 can be coupled, attached, or otherwise clamped to the implant insertion tool 144 at the mounting surface 154. To this end, the surgeon or other user places the clip 12 of the alignment guide 100 in contact with the mounting surface 154 and then presses the alignment guide 100 downward in the direction 62 toward the implant insertion tool 144. Illustratively, when the alignment guide 100 contacts the implant insertion tool 144, the rounded flanges 102, 104 engage the cylindrical mounting surface 154 and force the slot 32 to open to allow the mounting surface 154 to enter the internal volume 22. The surgeon can slide the alignment guide 100 onto the implant insertion tool 144 in the direction 62 until the inner surface 26 contacts the implant insertion tool 144. After the inner surface 26 contacts the implant insertion tool 144, the clip 12 surrounds the tool axis 152. When attached to the mounting surface 154, the alignment guide 100 is seated with an interference lock on the mounting surface 154.

[0057] Similar to Figure 4 the alignment guide 10 shown, after attaching the alignment guide 100 to the implant insertion tool 144, in some embodiments, the surgeon can rotate the alignment guide 100 about the tool axis 152. Because the mounting surface 154 and the inner surface 26 are relatively smooth, the alignment guide 100 can be freely rotated about the tool axis 52 to any angle 64. The surgeon can select the angle based on personal preference to adjust to the patient's anatomy or for other reasons. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the surgeon can remove the alignment guide 100, reposition the alignment guide 100 about the tool axis 52 at a desired angle 64, and then reattach the alignment guide 100 at the desired angle 64, as described above.

[0058] Now refer to Figures 9 to 12, showing another embodiment of an alignment guide 200 for use with an implant insertion tool for inserting an acetabular cup component into a patient's acetabulum during an orthopedic surgical procedure. Similar to alignment guides 10, 100, the illustrative alignment guide 200 has a one-piece body formed from a single-piece molded polymer. For example, the alignment guide 200 may be formed from a sulfone polymer such as polyphenylsulfone (PPSU). Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the alignment guide 200 may be formed from any elastomeric polymer material. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the alignment guide 200 may be formed from a metallic material.

[0059] Also similar to alignment guides 10, 100, the illustrative alignment guide 200 includes a clip 12, a riser 14, and an elongate indicator 16. The clip 12 includes a pair of curved arms 18, 20 defining an internal volume 22 and an imaginary axis 24 extending through the internal volume 22. The arms 18, 20 include an internal surface 26 extending from a distal end 28 of the arm 18 to a distal end 30 of the arm 20. The ends 28, 30 define a slot 32 therebetween through which the internal volume 22 is accessible. The internal surface 26 includes a pair of teeth or other protrusions 202, 204 projecting into the internal volume 22. Each tooth 202, 204 is positioned at a respective end 28, 30 of the corresponding arm 18, 20.

[0060] Now referring Figures 10 to 12 , in use, the alignment guide 200 may be attached to an implant insertion tool 244. Similar to insertion tools 44, 144, the illustrative implant insertion tool 244 has an elongate metallic body 246 that has an impact head 248 at its proximal end and an attachment mechanism 250 at its distal end. The body 246 defines an imaginary tool axis 252 extending from the attachment mechanism 250 to the impact head 248. Illustratively, the insertion tool 244 has a curved body 246 that can be used to avoid soft tissue or other patient anatomy. However, in other embodiments, the insertion tool 244 may have a straight body 246 similar to the insertion tools of Figures 2 to 5 and Figures 7 to 8 .

[0061] The body 246 of the insertion tool 244 includes a mounting surface 254 formed on a section of the body 246. As Figure 10 best shown, the mounting surface 254 is generally cylindrical. The mounting surface 254 includes a plurality of ridges or steps 206 extending parallel to the tool axis 252. Each pair of ridges 206 is separated by a groove or valley 208.

[0062] In use, as Figure 11As shown, the alignment guide 200 can be coupled, attached, or otherwise clamped to the implant insertion tool 244 at the mounting surface 254. To do so, the surgeon or other user places the clip 12 of the alignment guide 200 in contact with the mounting surface 254 and then presses the alignment guide 200 in the downward direction 62 toward the implant insertion tool 244. The surgeon can slide the alignment guide 200 onto the implant insertion tool 244 in the direction 62 until the inner surface 26 contacts the implant insertion tool 244. When in contact with the implant insertion tool 244, the teeth 202, 204 engage the corresponding grooves 208 of the mounting surface 254. The teeth 202, 204 and the contact points 210 ( Figure 9 shown) at the top of the inner surface 26 lock the alignment guide 200 to the insertion tool 244 in an interference fit. After contacting the implant insertion tool 244, the axis 24 defined by the alignment guide 200 is parallel to the tool axis 252, as Figure 11 shown.

[0063] In some embodiments, as Figure 12 shown, after the alignment guide 200 is attached to the insertion tool 244, the surgeon can rotate the alignment guide 200 about the axis 24. As the surgeon rotates the alignment guide 200, the teeth 202, 204 engage the corresponding ridges 206 and grooves 208 in the mounting surface 254. The grooves 208 and ridges 206 cooperate to urge the teeth 202, 204 into engagement with the corresponding grooves 208 to serve as pawls for indexing rotation of the alignment guide 200. Thus, based on the arrangement of the ridges 206 and grooves 208 of the mounting surface 254, the alignment guide 200 can be rotated by the surgeon about the axis 24 to any of a plurality of predetermined angles 212. The surgeon can select the angle 212 based on personal preference to adjust to the patient's anatomy or for other reasons. After rotation, the alignment guide 200 is shape-locked to the insertion tool 244 by the teeth 202, 204.

[0064] Now referring to Figure 13 , an illustration of using the exemplary alignment guide 10 and implant insertion tool 44 to install an acetabular cup component in the acetabulum of a patient's hip joint is shown. However, it should be understood that the corresponding alignment guides 100, 200 and insertion tools 144, 244 can also be used in place of the alignment guide 10 and insertion tool 44. Once the alignment guide 10 and implant insertion tool 44 have been assembled in the manner described above, the surgeon secures the acetabular cup component 70 to the insertion tool 44. For example, in some embodiments, the acetabular cup component 70 can be screwed onto the threaded end of the attachment mechanism 50.

[0065] Thereafter, as Figure 13As shown, the surgeon uses the implant insertion tool 44 to position the acetabular cup component 70 such that its generally hemispherical bone-engaging surface 72 is inserted into the surgically prepared acetabular surface 74 of the patient in a desired orientation. The surgeon can use the indicator 16 of the alignment guide 10 to measure and adjust the inclination of the acetabular cup component 70. In particular, the surgeon can adjust the angle of the insertion tool 44 until the indicator 16 is parallel to the vertical reference line 76 (i.e., pointing straight up). The vertical reference line 76 can be visually determined by the surgeon relative to the floor, the operating table, or other external reference. Positioning the indicator 16 such that it is parallel to the vertical reference line 76 ensures that the acetabular cup component 70 is positioned at a predetermined inclination angle (based on the specific indication angle 42 of the alignment guide 10 as described above). As shown, the riser 14 positions the indicator 16 away from the tool 44 and can thus improve the visibility of the indicator 16 (e.g., by positioning the indicator 16 away from the surgeon's hand, the patient's anatomy, or other objects that may obscure the visibility of the indicator 16).

[0066] Once the acetabular cup component 70 is positioned in this manner, the surgeon uses a surgical mallet, a sledgehammer, or other impact tool to strike the impact head 48 of the implant insertion tool 44 to drive the acetabular cup component 70 into the bone tissue until the acetabular cup component 70 is fully seated in the surgically prepared acetabular surface 74 of the patient.

[0067] Then, the surgeon releases the acetabular cup component 70 from the implant insertion tool 44. For example, the surgeon can rotate the implant insertion tool 44 in a direction that loosens the threads of the tool 44 from the corresponding threaded holes of the acetabular cup component 70.

[0068] After releasing the acetabular cup component 70, the surgeon removes the alignment guide 10 from the insertion tool 44. The surgeon pulls the alignment guide 10 away from the insertion tool 44 (i.e., in a direction opposite to Figure 3 direction 62), and the insertion tool 44 is removed from the internal volume 22 through the slot 32. When removing the alignment guide 10, the surgeon can grasp the riser 14 and pull the alignment guide 10 away from the insertion tool 44. Additionally or alternatively, if available, the surgeon can pull on one or more of the rounded flanges 102, 104 to assist in removing the alignment guide 10. Thus, the alignment guide 10 can be removed by the surgeon using one hand.

[0069] Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in character. It should be understood that only illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, and all changes and modifications within the spirit of the present disclosure should be protected.

[0070] The present disclosure has a number of advantages arising from the various features of the devices, systems, and methods described herein. It should be noted that alternative embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure may not include all of the described features, but may still benefit from at least some of the advantages of these features. Those of ordinary skill in the art can readily devise their own implementations of the devices, systems, and methods that incorporate one or more of the features of the present invention and fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An angled guide for use with an implant insertion tool during a surgical procedure, the angled guide comprising a one-piece body comprising: a clip configured to couple to a mounting surface of the implant insertion tool, wherein the clip defines an interior volume and a notional tool axis extending through the interior volume; an elongated riser extending from the clamp away from the imaginary tool axis to a first engagement portion; and An elongated indicator extends from the first engagement portion to a distal end of the elongated riser, wherein the elongated indicator and the imaginary tool axis define an indication angle, wherein the indication angle is predetermined and fixed. 2 . The tilt guide of claim 1 , wherein the one-piece body comprises a molded polymer body. 3 . The tilt guide of claim 2 , wherein the one-piece body is formed of polyphenylsulfone (PPSU). The tilt guide of claim 1 , wherein the integral body is formed of a metal material.

5. The tilting guide according to claim 1, wherein the clip comprises: a first flexure arm extending away from the elongated riser to a first end; and a second flex arm extending away from the elongated riser to a second end, wherein the first and second flex arms cooperate to define the interior volume and the first and second ends cooperate to define a slot enabling access to the interior volume.

6. The inclined guide according to claim 5, further comprising a first rounded flange located on the first end of the first curved arm and a second rounded flange located on the second end of the second curved arm, wherein each of the first rounded flange and the second rounded flange is bent away from the narrow slot.

7. An inclined guide according to claim 5, wherein each of the first end of the first curved arm and the second end of the second curved arm has a chamfered edge, and wherein the chamfered edge is configured to engage the implant insertion tool and cause the narrow slot to open when engaged with the implant insertion tool.

8. The angled guide of claim 5, wherein the first and second curved arms define a planar-concave interior surface configured to engage a cylindrical mounting surface of the implant insertion tool.

9. The angled guide of claim 5, wherein the first and second curved arms define a tapered concave interior surface configured to engage a conical frustum mounting surface of the implant insertion tool.

10. An inclined guide according to claim 1, wherein the clip includes an inner surface, which faces the mounting surface of the implant insertion tool when the clip is connected to the mounting surface, wherein the inner surface includes three contact points, and wherein each of the three contact points is configured to engage the mounting surface of the implant insertion tool.

11. The tilt guide according to claim 1, wherein the clip includes a first tooth and a second tooth, the first tooth and the second tooth extending inwardly from an inner surface of the clip toward the imaginary tool axis into the inner volume, and wherein the first tooth and the second tooth are configured to engage corresponding grooves of the mounting surface.

12. The tilt guide according to claim 11, wherein the mounting surface includes a plurality of ridges parallel to the imaginary tool axis, each pair of ridges being separated by a groove.

13. The tilting guide according to claim 11, wherein the clip comprises: A first curved arm that extends away from the elongate riser to a first end; and a second curved arm that extends away from the elongate riser to a second end, wherein the first curved arm and the second curved arm cooperate to define the inner volume, and the first end and the second end cooperate to define a slot enabling access to the inner volume, wherein the first tooth is located on the first end of the first curved arm, and wherein the second tooth is located on the second end of the second curved arm.

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