Orthopedic instrument attachment mechanisms and related assemblies and systems

Abstract

A medical device connection mechanism, related assembly, and system generally includes a first medical device having a protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of a body of the protrusion, the protrusion having a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the body of the protrusion, the body of the protrusion includes an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end; and a second medical device, the second medical device having: an interior sidewall defining an aperture extending into the second medical device; and a discontinuous threaded portion disposed within the bore, the discontinuous threaded portion defining an unthreaded channel extending along a height of the discontinuous threaded portion, and the discontinuous threaded portion configured to receive the protruding interrupted threaded portion of the first medical device through the unthreaded channel.

Description

Background Art

[0001] 1. Citation of Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 511,407, filed on June 30, 2023. The disclosure of this related application is hereby incorporated in its entirety into the present disclosure. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of orthopedic surgery and, more particularly, to orthopedic instrument connection mechanisms and related systems and assemblies.

[0004] 3. Related fields

[0005] In many minimally invasive orthopedic surgical procedures, surgeons use a variety of tools to prepare and orient endoprosthesis implants. Many such instruments include handles and adapters. The adapters can be connected to various broaching, reaming, and placement tools that are selectively employed throughout the procedure. In order to work efficiently and minimize the time the patient is under anesthesia, surgeons typically work with a team of technicians, nurses, and other medical professionals to assemble and prepare various sterile surgical instruments prior to use.

[0006] Some existing orthopedic medical device connection mechanisms consist of a single joint point. While these typically connect and disconnect quickly, these designs can lead to inaccurate or lost fit of the instrument. Other designs include delicate and complex spring and pin mechanisms that can be prone to failure after repeated compression.

[0007] Other existing devices, such as the device disclosed by Dees et al. in PCT Patent Application No. PCT / US2016 / 032346, require the use of guide rods. Guide rods can limit alignment possibilities and the installation and adjustment of such guide rods can extend the procedure time. Summary of the invention

[0008] The problems of the prior art are solved by an exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism according to the present disclosure. The exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism includes: a first medical device, the first medical device having: a protrusion, the protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along the height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end; and a second medical device, the second medical device having: a body; an inner sidewall, the inner sidewall defining a hole extending into the body; a discontinuous threaded portion, the discontinuous threaded portion being disposed within the hole, the discontinuous threaded portion defining a non-threaded channel extending along the height of the discontinuous threaded portion, and the discontinuous threaded portion being configured to receive the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion of the first medical device through the non-threaded channel.

[0009] It is contemplated that certain exemplary embodiments described herein may allow for rapid, accurate, and reliable assembly and disassembly of orthopedic instruments while allowing connection mechanism components to withstand repeated blunt forces from compression instruments.

[0010] It is further contemplated that certain exemplary embodiments described herein may allow for the use of various modular orthopedic medical device assemblies that may be configured to be assembled and disassembled via exemplary medical device connection mechanisms according to the present disclosure.

[0011] It is further contemplated that certain exemplary embodiments described herein may allow for the use of fewer manual orthopedic instruments during surgical procedures as compared to prior designs utilizing complex connection mechanisms.

[0012] It is further contemplated that certain exemplary embodiments described herein may allow a user to use a free-form orthopedic medical device (eg, without being constrained by a guide instrument such as an intramedullary rod).

[0013] It is further contemplated that certain exemplary embodiments described herein may allow for the use of modular medical devices, such as modular broaches, wherein modular broach components of the modular broaches are capable of being used with any other modular broach components in a provided supply of such components to thereby better accommodate each patient's unique anatomy while minimizing inventory. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The foregoing will be apparent from the following more particular description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the disclosed embodiments.

[0015] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary first medical device, wherein the first medical device is an adapter for an orthopedic implant assembly.

[0016] Figure 2 is an isometric view of an exemplary second medical device, where the second medical device is an orthopedic instrument configured to receive an adapter.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Detailed perspective view of a medical device.

[0018] Figure 4 is an isometric view of an orthopedic instrument assembly with an exemplary medical device connection mechanism and a locator; the orthopedic instrument assembly is depicted in an assembled configuration.

[0019] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Close-up perspective cross-sectional side view of an orthopedic device assembly.

[0020] Figure 6 is an isometric expanded view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly having an exemplary medical device connection mechanism; the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly includes stacked modular orthopedic instruments depicted in a disassembled configuration.

[0021] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An isometric view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly depicted in an assembled configuration.

[0022] Fig. 8A yes Figure 7 A bottom view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly of , depicted in a partially assembled configuration.

[0023] Figure 8B yes Figure 7 A bottom view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly of , depicted in a fully assembled configuration.

[0024] Fig. 9 is a front view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly in a pre-engaged configuration.

[0025] Fig.10 is an isometric view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly in an assembled configuration, wherein the second medical device of the depicted orthopedic instrument assembly is an auxiliary adapter.

[0026] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 An isometric view of an orthopedic device assembly further depicting an endoprosthesis implant coupled to an auxiliary adapter.

[0027] Fig.12 is bonded to the positioner Fig.11 Isometric view of an orthopedic device assembly in which an endoprosthesis implant has been inserted into the resected proximal tibia. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The following detailed description of the preferred embodiments is presented for illustration and description purposes only, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope and spirit of the present invention. The embodiments are selected and described to best explain the principles of the present invention and their practical applications. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many changes may be made to the invention disclosed in this specification without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0029] Unless otherwise specified, similar reference symbols indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent embodiments of various features and components according to the present disclosure, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate the embodiments of the present disclosure, and such illustrations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0030] Unless otherwise expressly provided herein, the following rules of interpretation apply to this specification: (a) all words used herein shall be interpreted as having the part of speech or number (singular or plural) required by such circumstances; (b) unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular terms "a", "an", and "the" used in this specification and the appended claims include plural references; (c) the term "about" applied to a stated range or value indicates an approximation of the deviation of the range or value from the measured value known or expected in the art; (d) unless otherwise indicated, the words "herein", "herein", "hereafter", "hereafter", and words of similar meaning refer to the entire text of this specification, not to any particular paragraph, claim, or other subsection; (e) descriptive headings are for convenience only and shall not control or affect the construction meaning of parts of this specification; and (f) "or" and "any" are not exclusive, and "including" is not limiting. In addition, the terms "including", "having" and "comprising" should be interpreted as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including but not limited to").

[0031] References in the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it should be considered that it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to affect that feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0032] To the extent necessary to provide descriptive support, the subject matter and / or text of the appended claims are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0033] Unless otherwise expressly provided herein, the description of the value range herein is intended only to be used as a shorthand method for referring to each individual value within the range of any sub-range falling therein. Each individual value within the described range is incorporated into the specification or claims, as if each individual value is individually described herein. In the case of providing a specific value range, it is understood that, unless the context clearly provides otherwise, each intermediate value, to one-tenth or less of the lower limit unit between the upper and lower limits of the range, and any other stated value or intermediate value in the stated range of its sub-range is included herein. All sub-ranges are also included herein. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges are also included therein, subject to the influence of any specific and explicitly excluded limitations in the stated range.

[0034] The terms "horizontal" and "vertical" are used to indicate directions relative to an absolute reference (i.e., ground plane). However, these terms should not be interpreted as requiring that structures be absolutely parallel to each other or absolutely perpendicular to each other. For example, a first vertical structure and a second vertical structure are not necessarily parallel to each other.

[0035] Throughout this disclosure and unless otherwise indicated, various positioning terms, such as "distal," "proximal," "medial," "lateral," "anterior," and "posterior," will be used in a conventional manner when referring to human anatomy. More specifically, "distal" refers to the area away from the body's attachment point, while "proximal" refers to the area close to the body's attachment point. For example, the distal femur refers to the portion of the femur near the tibia, while the proximal femur refers to the portion of the femur near the hip. The terms "medial" and "lateral" are also essentially relative. "Medial" refers to something that is located closer to the middle of the body. "Lateral" means that something is located closer to the right or left side of the body rather than the middle of the body. With respect to "anterior" and "posterior," "anterior" refers to something that is located closer to the front of the body, while "posterior" refers to something that is located closer to the back of the body.

[0036] "Varus" and "valgus" are broad terms that include, but are not limited to, rotational movement in the medial and / or lateral directions relative to the knee joint.

[0037] The term "mechanical axis" of the femur refers to an imaginary line drawn from the center of the femoral head to the center of the distal femur at the knee.

[0038] The term "anatomical axis" refers to an imaginary line drawn longitudinally down the middle of the femoral or tibial axis, depending on the usage.

[0039] Figure 1 Depicted is an exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150 ( Figure 5 ) of an orthopedic instrument assembly 100 ( Figure 4) is an exemplary first medical device 105. It should be understood that the medical devices disclosed herein are generally contemplated for use in surgical procedures, particularly orthopedic surgical procedures. It is contemplated that in certain exemplary embodiments, the medical device may be an orthopedic instrument, an orthopedic implant, an orthopedic instrument adapter, a combination or component thereof; however, nothing in the present disclosure limits the contemplated "medical device" to the examples provided. In the depicted exemplary embodiment, the first medical device 105 is an adapter including a protrusion 115 having a proximal end 117 and a distal end 119 disposed distally from the proximal end 117 along a height bH of a protrusion body 113, the protrusion body 113 optionally including a handle portion 111 disposed closer to the proximal end 117 than to the distal end 119. The interrupted threaded portion 118 is disposed closer to the distal end 119 than to the proximal end 117. In other exemplary embodiments, the non-threaded handle portion 111 may not be present, and the interrupted threaded portion 118 may extend to the proximal end 117.

[0040] The interrupted threaded portion 118 desirably includes a timing screw thread 135 extending generally radially outward from a non-interrupted portion of the protrusion body 113. In the depicted embodiment, the interrupted portion of the protrusion body 113 includes two shear faces 114 that are disposed at opposite sides of the protrusion body 113 and extend generally along the height bH of the protrusion body 113.

[0041] Figure 2 An exemplary second medical device 110 of the orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 is depicted including an exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150. The second medical device 110 includes a body 126 having a proximal side 124 disposed distally from a distal side 147 and an inner sidewall 129 extending between the proximal side 124 and the distal side 147. Figure 3 ). The inner sidewall 129 defines a hole 127 extending into the body 126 of the second medical device 110. The discontinuous threaded portion 121 is disposed within the hole 127. In the depicted embodiment, the threads 133 ( Figure 3 ) from the inner side wall 129 toward the central longitudinal axis C of the hole 127 ( Fig. 8A ) extends radially inward. The discontinuous threaded portion 121 defines a non-threaded channel 123 extending along the discontinuous threaded portion height tpH. In other words, the absence of the screw threads 133 along a portion of the discontinuous threaded portion height tpH defines the non-threaded channel 123. When the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 begin to engage (i.e., are arranged in a "pre-engaged" or "pre-assembled" configuration, see Fig. 8A ), the adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b ( Figure 3) is ideally sized to tightly receive the interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115. In this manner, the discontinuous threaded portion 121 can be said to be "configured to" "receive" the interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115 of the first medical device 105 through the non-threaded channel 123. In addition, the non-threaded channel 123 that can tightly receive the interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115 of the first medical device 105 can be said to be a "keyed slot" or a "keyed non-threaded slot" 123.

[0042] In the depicted embodiment, the distance D between adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b on either side of the non-threaded channel 123 is substantially uniform along the plurality of adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b. Without being bound by theory, it is expected that this arrangement is desirable because it can facilitate the rapid introduction of the interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115 into the discontinuous threaded portion 121, especially in the case of limited visibility. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to embodiments including non-threaded channels 123 defined by adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b disposed at a uniform distance D. In certain embodiments, one or more discontinuous threads disposed above or below a pair of adjacent reference discontinuous threads 133a, 133b disposed on either side of the non-threaded channel 123 and separated by a distance D may be separated by a non-threaded channel distance greater than or less than the distance D of the reference discontinuous threads 133a, 133b.

[0043] As in Figure 3 As better seen in , the unthreaded channel 123 can be recessed into the body 126 of the second medical device 110. In other words, the unthreaded channel interior sidewall 125 is disposed radially outward from the interior sidewall 129. The step 128 extends radially between the edge 141 of the interior sidewall 129 and the edge 143 of the adjacent unthreaded channel 123. In this manner, the unthreaded channel 123 can be said to be "recessed within the body 126 of the second medical device 110." It should be understood that the same step and edge structure is typically present on the other side of the unthreaded channel 123. In the depicted embodiment, the second keyed slot 123b is disposed opposite the first keyed slot ( Figure 2 ). It should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the non-threaded channel interior sidewall 125 may not exist, so that the non-threaded channel 123 further extends radially through the body 126 of the second medical device 110. However, in certain exemplary embodiments, the discontinuous threaded portion 121 may be interrupted by a single keyed slot 123a. In other exemplary embodiments, more than two keyed slots may include a discontinuous threaded portion 121.

[0044] Without being bound by theory, it is further contemplated that the keyed slot 123 recessed within the body 126 of the second medical device 110 can further facilitate alignment and guidance of the interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115 of the first medical device 105 when connecting or disconnecting the exemplary connection mechanism 150 disclosed herein. This is believed to be particularly beneficial when visibility is limited. The recessed keyed slot 123 can allow the first medical device 105 to be guided into the second medical device 110 by feel, which can facilitate efficient assembly or disassembly of the orthopedic instrument assembly 100 including the exemplary connection mechanism 150.

[0045] It should be understood that if similar edges 141, 143 and step 128 structures exist in the orthopedic implant, the keyed slot 123 can be said to be "recessed within the body of the orthopedic implant." Similarly, it should be understood that if similar edges 141, 143 and step 128 structures exist on the auxiliary adapter (see Fig.10 ), the keyed slot 123 can be said to be "recessed within the body of the auxiliary adapter". In any such embodiments, the relative steps 128 and the non-threaded channel interior sidewalls 125 can be said to further define the keyed slot 123. The exemplary embodiment shown includes two relative non-threaded channels 123. Thus, the depicted discontinuous threaded portion 121 can be said to include a first portion 121a of the discontinuous thread, which is opposite to a second portion 121b of the discontinuous thread. However, it should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, there may be a single non-threaded channel 123. In yet other exemplary embodiments, there may be more than two non-threaded channels 123. In embodiments having multiple non-threaded channels 123, the non-threaded channels are desirably arranged at regular intervals relative to an adjacent non-threaded channel 123 or multiple non-threaded channels 123. However, it should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, multiple non-threaded channels 123 may be arranged at irregular intervals relative to an adjacent non-threaded channel 123 or multiple non-threaded channels 123.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 and the threads 135 of the complementary interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115 advantageously have a trapezoidal cross-section when bisected radially (see FIG. Figure 3). Without being bound by theory, it is contemplated that screw threads 133, 135 having a trapezoidal cross-section (such as an ACME thread form or a trapezoidal metric thread form) may facilitate increased engagement speeds in part by typically having a lower number of threads per axial distance, having additional strength at the base of the thread form, and having increased thread shearing capacity compared to standard threads. It is further contemplated that such trapezoidal threads 133, 135 may effectively transmit compression forces more evenly through the engaged threads 133, 135 when in cam-locked engagement with each other and thereby withstand repeated compression longer than non-trapezoidal screw threads. However, nothing in the present disclosure limits screw threads to ACME, trapezoidal metric, or other trapezoidal screw threads. All types of screw threads are considered within the scope of the present disclosure, including but not limited to standard, V-shaped, American National, unified, metric, square, ACME, British (Whitworth Standard), dome, and beveled trapezoid screw threads.

[0047] Without being bound by theory, it is contemplated that the threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 and the threads 135 of the interrupted threaded portion 118 may desirably be “timed” or “clocked” such that placing a given orthopedic instrument assembly 100 into an assembled configuration results in a known angular displacement and a known depth of travel of the protrusion 115 relative to the starting position of the protrusion 115 (i.e., in the pre-assembled configuration).

[0048] "Thread timing" or "thread timing" is a function of the pitch and spacing of the threads. In practice, when the threads 135, 133 are placed in a pre-assembled configuration (see Fig. 8A ), the threads 135 of the interrupted threaded portion 121 are placed in the non-threaded channels 123a, 123b of the discontinuous threaded portion 118. Fig. 8A In the depicted embodiment, the first transverse axis TA can be envisioned as extending between the opposing non-threaded channels 123a, 123b and transversely bisecting the interrupted threaded portion 118. When placed in the pre-assembled configuration, the interrupted threaded portion 118 and the discontinuous threaded portion 121 share a common central longitudinal axis C. For timing threads, the starting point of thread engagement is determined by the thread pitch relative to the common rotation axis between the internal thread 135 and the external thread 133 and the length of the protrusion 115. When the orthopedic instrument assembly 100 is rotated from the pre-assembled configuration to the assembled configuration, the threads 135 of the interrupted threaded portion 118 begin to engage with the threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121. For timing threads, the length of the protrusion travels a known distance into the second medical device 110 with each angular displacement. To facilitate quick connection, it is envisioned that less than one full turn for fully engaging and engaging the respective threads 135, 133 may be desirable. It is envisioned that a single-point thread milling cutter can be used to produce the thread forms described herein.

[0049] Due to visibility and time constraints in the operating room, timed threads are believed to be particularly advantageous for the exemplary medical device connection mechanisms contemplated herein. If a surgeon or technician can assemble an orthopedic instrument assembly 100 having an exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150 without looking at the assembly and know that the assembly is fully assembled and secured when the first medical device 105 is rotated a known number of degrees ("°") (e.g., 90° in certain embodiments), the surgeon can continue the procedure with minimal interruption. This can ultimately help reduce the time a patient is under anesthesia and improve patient safety.

[0050] Furthermore, without being bound by theory, it is contemplated that the use of trapezoidal and timed threads in conjunction with the interrupted thread portion 118 and the discontinuous thread portion 121 in the exemplary embodiment may allow the respective threads 133, 135 to engage (i.e., be in an assembled configuration) more quickly (e.g., in a quarter turn) than a fully threaded connection. A fully threaded connection would require several turns to engage the respective components and may result in the components not being fully threaded into each other, which may undermine the stability of the connection, particularly when subjected to the compressive forces common in orthopedic procedures.

[0051] It will be further appreciated that when the orthopedic medical device connection mechanism 150 is in the assembled configuration, the exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism 150 according to the present disclosure effectively transmits a compressive force around the engaged screw threads 133, 135. This feature can reduce wear of the connection mechanism 150 during use while allowing for rapid assembly and disassembly of orthopedic medical devices having mating components of the connection mechanism 150, which can ultimately help reduce the time a patient is under anesthesia.

[0052] Although the protrusion 115 has been described herein as extending from the first medical device 105 and the discontinuous thread form 121 has been described as being disposed within the aperture 127 of the second medical device 105, it will be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the protrusion 115 may extend from the second medical device 110 and be configured to cooperate with the discontinuous thread form 121 disposed within the aperture 127 of the first medical device 110 (in any manner described throughout this disclosure).

[0053] Although the complementary threads 133, 135 are considered to be the most robust and reliable type of engagement mechanism for the exemplary medical device engagement mechanisms described herein, it should be understood that all other rotationally engaged mechanical engagement mechanisms are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Non-limiting examples of such other rotationally engaged mechanical engagement mechanisms may include one or more additional protrusions extending from the first medical device 105, which may include (as further examples) one or more hooks, clamps, clasps, ramps, flanges or ridges, and one or more receivers disposed in the second medical device 110, the one or more receivers being configured to tightly receive the one or more additional protrusions from the first medical device 105. The additional receivers may include (as further examples) one or more complementary rods, clamps, clasps, ramps, rings, arcs, flanges, recesses, gaps or ridges, which are configured to tightly receive the one or more additional protrusions from the first medical device 105. It should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the receivers may be on the first medical device 105 and the additional protrusions may be on the second medical device 110. Combinations and permutations of the foregoing are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0054] Return to reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , an exemplary first medical device 105 ( Figure 1 ) and a second exemplary medical device 110 ( Figure 2 ) is shown in a disassembled configuration. Likewise, it should be understood that the exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150 ( Figure 5 ) is shown in a disassembled configuration. To place the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 having the exemplary connection mechanism 150 in an assembled configuration, the interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115 can be slid into the unthreaded channel 123 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 of the second medical device 110. Because the unthreaded channel 123 is desirably a keyed slot 123, it is contemplated that the interrupted threaded portion 118 can be quickly inserted into the unthreaded channel 123 with limited or no visibility. When the interrupted threaded portion 118 is inserted into the unthreaded channel 123, the orthopedic instrument assembly (and by extension, the exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150 itself) 100 can be said to be in a "pre-assembled" configuration (see Fig. 8A and Fig. 9 ). Rotating the protrusion 115 and interrupting the threaded portion 118 to engage the threads of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 places the exemplary orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 in an "assembled" configuration (see Figure 7 and Figure 8B ).

[0055] exist Figures 1 to 8BIn the exemplary assembly depicted in FIG, the protrusion 115 is fixedly coupled to the base 116 so that the entire first medical device 105 (which is an adapter in the exemplary embodiment depicted) rotates with the protrusion 115 to place the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 in the assembled configuration. However, in other exemplary embodiments, it is contemplated that the protrusion 115 can rotate independently of the base 116.

[0056] In an embodiment, it is contemplated that markings or other indicia may be provided to indicate a starting position for a pre-assembled configuration and an engagement position for a fully assembled configuration.

[0057] Reference Fig. 9 , which depicts an exemplary orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 in a pre-assembled configuration, the movable non-ridged spacer 112 is advantageously disposed within a gap G created between the distal side 103 of the base 116 of the first medical device 110 and the proximal side 124 of the second medical device 105. In the depicted embodiment, when the orientation of the orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 is changed from the pre-assembled configuration ( Fig. 9 ) to the assembly configuration (see Figure 7 ), the movable non-ridged spacer 112 is retracted into the base 116 of the first medical device 105. It should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, when the orientation of the orthopedic instrument assembly 100 is changed from the pre-assembled configuration to the fully assembled configuration, the movable non-ridged spacer 112 can be retracted into the second medical device 110. All types of spacers that can be compressed, deformed, or retracted are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Non-limiting examples of movable non-ridged spacers 112 include ball plungers, retractable pins, or O-rings.

[0058] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, two movable non-ridged spacers 112 are desirably disposed at equal and opposite locations within the base 116 to uniformly reduce friction when the orientation of the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 is rotated from the pre-assembled configuration to the assembled configuration. However, it should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, a single movable non-ridged spacer 112 may be provided. In still other exemplary embodiments, more than two movable non-ridged spacers 112 may be provided. In exemplary embodiments involving two or more movable non-ridged spacers 112, it should be understood that the two or more movable non-ridged spacers 112 may be uniformly spaced relative to each other, or unevenly spaced.

[0059] In the depicted embodiment, the movable non-ridged spacer receiver 134 is disposed in the proximal side surface 122 of the proximal side 124 of the second medical device 110. When the orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 is in the assembled configuration, the movable non-ridged spacer 112 of the first medical device 105 is disposed within the movable non-ridged spacer receiver 134. It should be understood that in exemplary embodiments, the movable non-ridged spacer 112 and the movable non-ridged spacer receiver 134 (if present) may be disposed on the first medical device 105, the second medical device 100, or both the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110.

[0060] The depicted first medical device 105 also includes a pin 104 extending from the distal side 103 of the base 116. The pin 104 can be used to align the first medical device 105 relative to the second medical device 110 in a pre-assembled configuration. The user aligns the pin 104 on the first end 166 of the arcuate groove 136 provided in the proximal side 124 of the second medical device 110 while inserting the protrusion 115 of the first medical device 105 into the non-threaded channel 123 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 of the second medical device 110. The combination of the pin 104 and the arcuate groove 136 can provide the following quick visual and tactile feedback: the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 is in a pre-assembled configuration and is properly aligned to be fully assembled. In other words, the pin 104 and the arcuate groove 136 can be used to convey the desired user indicator of the proper alignment of the timing screw threads 133, 135 of the connecting mechanism 150.

[0061] When the user rotates the preassembled orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 to place the orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 in the assembled configuration, the pin 104 rotates with the base 116 and extends deeper into the oppositely oriented arcuate groove 126 until the pin 104 reaches the precisely distal second end 167 of the arcuate groove 136. It should be understood that in embodiments, the pin 104 and groove 136 (if present together) can be provided on the first medical device 105, the second medical device 100, or both the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110. It should also be understood that the screw threads 133, 135 can be arranged for clockwise or counterclockwise rotation.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment including the timing threads 133 , 135 , when a user rotates the orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 from the pre-assembled configuration to the assembled configuration, the gap G is effectively eliminated, thereby providing further tactile feedback to the user that the first medical device 105 has engaged the second medical device 110 .

[0063] Common Reference Figures 1 to 11Specific embodiments of the present invention are described herein, which depict an orthopedic instrument assembly 100 configured for use in knee arthroplasty.

[0064] Briefly, in a typical knee arthroplasty procedure, the surgeon makes a generally vertical medial parapatellar incision approximately five to six inches in length on the anterior or anteromedial aspect of the knee.

[0065] The surgeon then continues to cut the fat tissue to expose the front or anteromedial aspect of the joint capsule. The surgeon can then perform a medial parapatellar arthrotomy to pierce the joint capsule. Then, a retractor can be used to move the kneecap roughly laterally (roughly about 90 degrees) to expose the distal condyle of the femur and the cartilaginous meniscus on the proximal side of the tibial plateau. The surgeon then removes the meniscus and uses instruments to measure and excise the distal femur and proximal tibia to accommodate the trial implant and then finally accommodate the final implant.

[0066] To prepare a resected tibia 180 ( Fig.12 ), the surgeon inserts a series of progressively larger broaches into the proximal tibial metaphysis and diaphysis to form a recess in the bone that mirrors the shape and size of the selected implant or implants. Broaching instruments typically include broaches with mating attachment geometries (see Figure 2 and Figure 3 ) and attached to the clamping handle (see Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) adapter (see Figure 1 ).

[0067] The proximal tibia 180 may present voids and portions of poor bone quality that compromise the overall stability of the tibial implant construct. The surgeon may use a tapered implant (see Fig.11 and Fig.12 ) to fill and reinforce these sections to help prevent further bone degeneration and improve the structural integrity of the bone surrounding the tibial implant.

[0068] Return to reference Figure 1 In the depicted example, the first medical device 105 is configured to Figure 2The adapter is an adapter that mates with a broach (i.e., an exemplary second medical device 110). The protrusion 115 is a shaft extending from the base 116 of the adapter, preferably from the distal side 103 of the base 116. In a preferred embodiment, the pin 104 and the ball plunger (i.e., an exemplary movable non-ridged spacer 112) also extend from the distal side 103 of the base 116. The pin 104 or the movable non-ridged spacer 112 or both the pin 104 and the movable non-ridged spacer 112 can be used to help align the timing screw threads 133, 135 and assemble the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 in the manner described above.

[0069] In the depicted exemplary embodiment, the first medical device 105 (i.e., the adapter) also includes a receiver structure 101 extending from the proximal side 108 of the base 116. The receiver structure 101 includes a receiver structure base 106 extending from the proximal side 108 of the base 116, a bridge 102 extending proximally from the receiver structure base 106, and a receiver rear stop 107 extending proximally from the bridge 102. When bisected along a transverse plane, the bridge 102 desirably has a smaller cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of ​​the receiver structure base 106 and the receiver rear stop 107. In the depicted embodiment, the receiver structure 101 is generally cylindrical, and the bridge 102 and the adjacent walls of the receiver structure base 106 and the receiver rear stop 107 define an annular gap 131, which can be positioned by a positioning instrument ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) is filled with an engagement protrusion (e.g., an annular follower 156) so as to selectively engage the first medical device 105.

[0070] Return to reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the depicted example, the second medical device 110 is configured to Figure 1 The exemplary second medical device 110 includes an inner sidewall 129. The inner sidewall 129 defines a hole 127 extending into the body 126 of the second medical device 110. The discontinuous threaded portion 121 is disposed within the hole 127. The threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 extend from the inner sidewall 129 toward the central longitudinal axis C ( Fig. 8A) extends radially inward. The discontinuous threaded portion 121 defines an unthreaded channel 123 extending along the discontinuous threaded portion height tpH. The discontinuous threaded portion 121 can receive the interrupted threaded portion 118 of the protrusion 115 of the first medical device 105 through the unthreaded channel 123. The outer side 146 of the depicted second medical device 110 also includes a plurality of broaching teeth 149 arranged generally circumferentially along the height of the second medical device 110. The outer side 146 and the plurality of broaching teeth 149 can define one or more debris gaps 148. When one of the medical devices according to the present disclosure is a broach, the debris gaps 148 provided on the outer side of the broach allow bone marrow and other epiphyseal and / or diaphyseal tissues to be broken down into "debris" and discharged from the debris gaps 148 to facilitate broaching. The debris slit 148 is desirably disposed at an angle on the lateral side 146 such that the end of the debris slit 148 positioned closer to the distal side 147 of the second medical device 110 is offset from the end of the debris slit 148 positioned closer to the proximal side 124 of the second medical device 110. Without the angled debris slit 148, tissue is more likely to drain as a longer ribbon, or drainage may be blocked altogether.

[0071] It should be understood that the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 can be made of materials having desired physical and chemical properties for the intended purpose. For example, when the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 are reusable orthopedic instruments, the material can be stainless steel or other suitable clinically tested materials. In examples where the first medical device 105, the second medical device 110, or components thereof are designed to be disposable or for limited use, the material can be selected from the group consisting essentially of polyetheretherketone ("PEEK"), polyethylene (including but not limited to ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene ("UHMWPE") and cross-linked polyethylene ("XLPE")) ("PE"), and polyamide (including but not limited to glass-filled polyamide and carbon fiber-filled polyamide).

[0072] In an exemplary embodiment where it is desired to minimize the scratching between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 or parts thereof, the first medical device 105, the second medical device 110 or the engaging parts thereof may be made of PEEK. In one exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 118 may be made of PEEK, while the remainder of the first medical device 110 is not made of PEEK. In other exemplary embodiments, the first medical device 105, the second medical device 110 or parts thereof may be coated to further reduce visible signs of wear, further reduce the coefficient of friction, or accommodate patient allergies. A non-limiting example list of coatings includes cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys, zirconium oxide, and niobium nitride. In other exemplary embodiments, in an assembled configuration, the threads 135 of the interrupted threaded portion 118 may indirectly engage the threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121. In such exemplary embodiments, in an assembled configuration, a liner or other intermediate structure may be disposed between the respective threads 133, 135. Such a liner may be made of a material selected for the desired purpose. Such a material may include any material listed herein.

[0073] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The exemplary orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 is shown in an assembled configuration, selectively fixedly coupled to a positioner 153 (eg, a handle). Figure 5 (It is Figure 4 1 ), the locator 153 engages the bridge 102 of the receiver structure 101 via a biasing engagement mechanism 155. All biasing engagement mechanisms 155 known to those of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the biasing engagement mechanism 155 includes a biasing spring 157 disposed within a housing 159 of the locator 153. When the receiver structure 101 is disposed within the locator 153, the biasing spring 157 applies a biasing force to an annular follower 156 of the bridge 102 of the receiver structure 101 surrounding the first medical device 105. The annular follower 156 in turn applies a biasing force to the bridge 102, which distributes these forces through the receiver rear stop 107 and the receiver structure base 106 to the adjacent housing 159 of the locator 153 to thereby fixedly engage the first medical device 105 of the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100.

[0074] To disengage the first medical device 105 from the retainer 153, the user may depress the exposed button 154 of the biased engagement mechanism 155, which overcomes the biasing force of the biasing spring 157, thereby releasing the bridge 102 from the annular follower 156 and allowing the user to remove the first medical device 105 from the retainer 153. In this manner, the exemplary orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 may be said to be "selectively fixedly engaged" to the retainer 153.

[0075] Figure 5 Also shown is an exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150 in an assembled configuration. The threads 135 of the interrupted threaded portion 118 have been inserted through the unthreaded passage 123 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 of the second medical device 110 (e.g., a broach) and have been rotated to be disposed between and tightly received by adjacent threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 so as to thereby engage the threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121. To disengage the medical device connection mechanism 150 and thereby place the orthopedic instrument assembly in a disassembled configuration, a user may rotate the second medical device 110 relative to the first medical device 105 so that the threads 135 of the interrupted threaded portion 118 disengage the threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 and move toward the unthreaded passage 123 relative to the second medical device 110. Once the threads 135 of the interrupted threaded portion 118 are in the unthreaded passage 123, the first medical device 105 may be longitudinally withdrawn from the second medical device 110 so as to thereby place the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly in a disassembled configuration.

[0076] Figure 6 and Figure 7 1 is a perspective view of another exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 including an exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150, wherein when the medical device connection mechanism 150 is placed in an assembled configuration, a plurality of additional medical devices 110b, 110c are disposed between a first medical device 105 and a second medical device 110a. In the depicted embodiment, each additional medical device 110b, 110c disposed between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110a includes two relatively non-threaded channels 123b, 123c, and each is capable of engaging an interrupted threaded portion 118 of a protrusion 115 of the first medical device 105 as described above. The first medical device 105 of the depicted embodiment has a plurality of additional medical devices 110b, 110c disposed between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110a. Figure 1 The depicted protrusion 115 is a longer protrusion 115. In practice, Figure 6 and Figure 7 The distal end 119 of the protrusion 115 depicted in the figure can extend through the relatively non-threaded passages 123c, 123b of the additional medical devices 110b, 110c and into the relatively non-threaded passage 123a of the second medical device 110 to place the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 in a pre-assembled configuration. When the interrupted threaded portion 118 is rotated out of the relatively non-threaded passage 123a of the second medical device 110 so as to engage with the adjacent threads 133 of the discontinuous threaded portion 121 of the second medical device 110, the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 (and by extension, the exemplary medical device connection mechanism 150) can be said to be in an "assembled configuration". Figure 6 to Figure 7In the embodiment, the second medical device 110a and each additional medical device 110b, 110c (eg, the third medical device 110b and the fourth medical device 110c) are stackable broaches. However, it should be understood that other types of medical devices may be used in other embodiments.

[0077] In the depicted embodiment, the fourth medical device 110c is sized smaller than the third medical device 110b to accommodate the natural taper of the bone into which the assembled orthopedic instrument 100 will be inserted. In an exemplary embodiment, the third medical device 110b may be the same size as the second medical device 100a. In other exemplary embodiments, the size of any of the provided medical devices may be different from the size of one or more sizes of other additional medical devices provided. It is contemplated that additional medical devices 110b, 110c with exemplary medical device connection mechanisms 150 according to the present disclosure allow true modularity (i.e., interchangeable use of any of the second, third, fourth or additional medical devices 110a, 110b, 110c... with the first medical device 105 (e.g., adapter)). Without being bound by theory, it is contemplated that the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 with true modularity as contemplated by the present disclosure may allow a user to quickly assemble a desired broach assembly, thereby better broaching a desired portion of a desired bone in a manner that accommodates the patient's unique natural anatomy while minimizing inventory.

[0078] It should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the protrusion 115 may include a plurality of interrupted threaded portions, wherein an interrupted threaded portion of the plurality of interrupted threaded portions may also engage a discontinuous threaded portion 121b, 121c of an additional medical device 110b, 110c disposed between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 in the assembled configuration. The threads 135, 133 of the corresponding threaded portions are desirably timed as described above. It should be understood that in embodiments including a plurality of additional medical devices 110b, 110c, the protrusion 115 may be displaced at a smaller angle (when moving from a pre-assembled configuration to an assembled configuration) than in embodiments in which the additional medical devices 110b, 110c are not present.

[0079] Fig. 8A Shown in pre-assembled configuration Figure 6 and Figure 7 1 is a bottom view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100. Figure 8B Shown in assembled configuration Figure 6 and Figure 7 1 is a bottom view of an exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100.

[0080] Although these figures generally depict the hole 127 extending into the center of the body 126 of the second medical device 110 symmetrically about the bisecting coronal and sagittal planes, nothing in this disclosure limits the invention to the depicted embodiments. In other exemplary embodiments, the hole 127, and therefore the discontinuous threaded portion 121, may be disposed closer to a portion of the distal side 147 of the body 126 of the second medical device 110 than another portion of the distal side 147. Furthermore, in other exemplary embodiments, the first medical device 105 or the second medical device 110 may be asymmetrical, symmetrical about a single bisecting plane, symmetrical about multiple bisecting planes, or radially symmetrical.

[0081] In reference Figures 2 to 8B In the embodiment depicted and described, the second medical device 110 is a bone preparation instrument. Common bone preparation instruments include broaches (see Figures 2 to 8B ), files, reamers, keel punches and other cutting instruments. However, it should be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the second medical device 110 can be an orthopedic instrument other than a bone preparation instrument. Such instruments may include measuring instruments, visualization instruments, and combinations thereof. Combinations and arrangements of measuring instruments or visualization instruments with bone preparation instruments are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0082] Reference Figures 2 to 8B The exemplary embodiments depicted and described may be particularly suitable for use with one or more tapered tibial inserts 160 (see Fig.11 and Fig.12 ) prepares the proximal end tibia 180. The tapered tibial insert 160 is a type of orthopedic endoprosthesis implant. The tapered tibial insert 160 is typically used when the surgical tibia 180 presents a void or a portion with poor bone quality. The surgeon may ream, broach, or otherwise remove trabecular bone from the metaphysis and / or diaphysis to create a recess that is typically complementary and mirrored to the outer dimensions of the tapered tibial insert 160. Once inserted, the tapered tibial insert 160 reinforces the metaphysis and / or diaphysis portion of the tibia 180 to further reduce bone degeneration and improve the structural integrity of the bone surrounding the tibial component of the endoprosthesis knee implant.

[0083] Figure 6 and Figure 7The modular orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 is an exemplary broaching instrument having an exemplary mechanical connection mechanism 150. The depicted broaching instrument is also desirably provided with a complementary tibial tapered insert 160 having external dimensions that are mirrored or otherwise complementary to the external dimensions of the broaching construction (i.e., any additional medical device 110b, 110c disposed between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110). The tibial tapered insert 160 may desirably be a modular tibial tapered insert. In this manner, the surgeon may select the size and shape of the additional medical device 110b, 110c (e.g., a modular tibial broach having components of the exemplary connection mechanism 150 according to the present disclosure) that is suitable for the specific anatomical structure of the tibia 180 of the surgical patient. The surgeon may then assemble the exemplary orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 in the manner described above. Once assembled, the surgeon may position the broaching instrument on the resected tibia 180 and use a hammer or other compression tool to broach the proximal tibia 180 to create a tibial tapered insert 160 ( Fig.12 ) having complementary outer dimensions.

[0084] Because the tibial cone insert 160 is provided to be complementary to the outer dimensions of the drill, the recess created in the tibia 180 can snugly receive the tibial cone insert 160 . Figures 10 to 12 shows the concept.

[0085] Fig.10 An exemplary orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 is depicted in an assembled configuration, wherein the first medical device 105 is an adapter and the second medical device 110 is configured to selectively engage a tapered tibial insert 160 ( Fig.11 ) with an auxiliary adapter. Fig.11 A tapered tibial insert 160 is shown selectively engaged to the orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 via a wedge-shaped taper. Fig.12 Shows Fig.11 The exemplary orthopaedic instrument assembly 100 is further attached to a positioning member 153 (e.g., a handle) wherein the tapered tibial insert 160 is being placed into a recess in the resected proximal tibia 180 created by broaching the orthopaedic instrument assembly 100, such as in Figures 1 to 8B Those described in any of the items .

[0086] In other exemplary embodiments, the second medical device 110 may be a device configured to receive the first medical device 105 (see Fig.11 ) of the orthopedic implant having a protrusion 115. A non-limiting list of exemplary orthopedic implants includes, but is not necessarily limited to: tibial tapers, femoral tapers, tibial and femoral components of endoprosthesis implants, and trial implants of any of the above.

[0087] In other exemplary embodiments, the second medical device 110 may be an auxiliary adapter ( Fig.10 In such exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary adapter can be further configured to selectively engage an orthopedic instrument, or an orthopedic implant, or another adapter (see Fig.11 ). In such exemplary embodiments involving an auxiliary adapter, it can be said that the orthopedic implant, orthopedic instrument, or another adapter is configured to indirectly engage the first medical device 105.

[0088] Other common orthopedic implants are included in implants or their parts, other parameters, spacing elements and gap fillers that extend into the metaphysis or diaphysis when implanted.Should be understood that there is no content in the present disclosure that limits the scope of the present disclosure to the knee joint.All orthopedic instruments, orthopedic implants and auxiliary adapters with exemplary connecting mechanism 150 are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0089] The components of the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 can be provided in the form of a surgical kit. The components of the kit are preferably arranged in a convenient form, such as in a surgical tray or box. However, the kit components do not have to be packaged or delivered together, as long as the kit components are assembled or collected together in the operating room for use during surgery.

[0090] Exemplary kits may include any suitable embodiment of the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100, variations of the exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly 100 described herein, and any other exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly according to an embodiment. While it is contemplated that exemplary kits may include one or more first medical devices 105 (preferably of different sizes), one or more second medical devices (preferably of different sizes), and one or more additional medical devices 110b, 110c (preferably of different sizes) configured to be disposed between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 in an assembled configuration, it will be understood that certain kits may lack some or all of these elements.

[0091] Any suitable embodiment of the first medical device 105, variations of the first medical device 105 described herein, and any other first medical device 105 according to an embodiment are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Any suitable embodiment of the second medical device 110, variations of the second medical device 110 described herein, and any other second medical device 110 according to an embodiment are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Any suitable embodiment of the additional medical device 110b, variations of the additional medical device 110b described herein, and any other additional medical device 110b according to an embodiment are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0092] The selection of an appropriate number or type of first medical devices 105, second medical devices 110, additional medical devices 110b (110c, etc.) to include in a kit according to a particular embodiment can be based on various considerations, such as the procedures intended to be performed using the components included in the kit.

[0093] An exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly may include: an adapter, the adapter comprising: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along the height of the body of the shaft, the body of the shaft comprising a handle portion disposed closer to the proximal end than to the distal end; and an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end; and an orthopedic instrument having a body, an interior sidewall, the interior sidewall defining a hole extending into the body of the orthopedic instrument, the hole being configured to receive the shaft of the adapter via a discontinuous threaded portion, the discontinuous threaded portion defining a non-threaded channel extending longitudinally therethrough.

[0094] Certain example assemblies may also include an engagement configuration wherein shaft threads of the interrupted threaded portion of the distal end of the shaft adjacently engage threads of the discontinuous thread form of the orthopedic instrument.

[0095] In certain exemplary assemblies, the shaft threads and the discontinuous threads are trapezoidal.

[0096] An exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly may include: an adapter, the adapter including: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along the height of the shaft body, the shaft body including an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end; and an orthopedic instrument, the orthopedic instrument having: a body; an inner sidewall, the inner sidewall defining a hole extending into the body; a discontinuous threaded portion, the discontinuous threaded portion including a series of screw threads extending radially inward from the inner sidewall toward a central longitudinal axis, wherein the discontinuous threaded portion defines an unthreaded channel extending along the height of the discontinuous threaded portion; an unthreaded channel inner sidewall, the unthreaded channel inner sidewall having: a first unthreaded channel edge, the first unthreaded channel edge extending from the inner sidewall a first edge of the inner sidewall of the orthopedic instrument disposed radially outwardly and circularly adjacent to the first edge to define a first step radially disposed between the first edge of the inner sidewall and the first non-threaded channel edge; and a second non-threaded channel edge, the second non-threaded channel edge disposed radially outwardly from the second edge of the inner sidewall and circularly adjacent to the second edge to define a second step radially disposed between the second edge of the inner sidewall and the second non-threaded channel edge, wherein the screw threads terminate at or before the first step and the second step, wherein the first step, the second step and the non-threaded channel inner sidewall define a keyed slot extending longitudinally along the orthopedic instrument, and wherein the keyed slot is configured to tightly receive the interrupted threaded portion of the adapter.

[0097] An exemplary orthopedic instrument assembly may include: an adapter, the adapter including: a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along the height of the shaft body, the shaft body including an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end; and an orthopedic instrument having: a body; an inner sidewall, the inner sidewall defining a hole extending into the body; a discontinuous threaded portion, the discontinuous threaded portion including a series of screw threads extending radially inward from the inner sidewall toward a central longitudinal axis, wherein the discontinuous threaded portion defines an interrupted threaded portion along the discontinuous threaded portion a first non-threaded channel inner side wall, the first non-threaded channel inner side wall having: a first non-threaded channel edge, the first non-threaded channel edge is radially disposed outwardly from a first edge of the inner side wall and is circularly adjacent to the first edge to define a first step radially disposed between the first edge of the inner side wall and the first non-threaded channel edge; and a second non-threaded channel edge, the second non-threaded channel edge is radially disposed outwardly from a second edge of the inner side wall and is circularly adjacent to the second edge to define a first step radially disposed between the second edge of the inner side wall and the first non-threaded channel edge. a second step between two unthreaded channel edges, wherein the screw threads terminate at or before the first step and the second step, and wherein the first step, the second step and the unthreaded channel inner sidewall define a first keyed slot extending longitudinally along the orthopedic instrument, a second unthreaded channel inner sidewall, the second unthreaded channel inner sidewall having: a third unthreaded channel edge, the third unthreaded channel edge being radially disposed outwardly from a third edge of the inner sidewall and being circularly adjacent to the third edge to define a third step radially disposed between the third edge of the inner sidewall and the third unthreaded channel edge; and a fourth unthreaded channel edge, the fourth unthreaded channel edge being radially disposed outwardly from a fourth edge of the inner sidewall and being circularly adjacent to the fourth edge to define a fourth step radially disposed between the fourth edge of the inner sidewall and the fourth unthreaded channel edge, wherein the screw threads terminate at or before the third step and the fourth step, wherein the third step, the fourth step and the second unthreaded channel inner sidewall define a second keyed slot extending longitudinally along the orthopedic instrument, and wherein the keyed slot is configured to tightly receive the interrupted threaded portion of the adapter.

[0098] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism includes: a first medical device, the first medical device having: a protrusion, the protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along the height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end; and a second medical device, the second medical device having: a body; an inner side wall, the inner side wall defining a hole extending into the body; a discontinuous threaded portion, the discontinuous threaded portion being disposed within the hole, the discontinuous threaded portion defining a non-threaded channel extending along the height of the discontinuous threaded portion, and the discontinuous threaded portion being configured to receive the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion of the first medical device through the non-threaded channel.

[0099] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have a protrusion further comprising a handle portion disposed closer to the proximal end of the protrusion than to the distal end.

[0100] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have the threads of the interrupted thread portion and the threads of the discontinuous thread portion having a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.

[0101] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have the discontinuous threaded portion defining a plurality of non-threaded channels extending along the height of the discontinuous threaded portion. Such exemplary embodiments may optionally have the discontinuous threaded portion configured to receive the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion of the first medical device through a plurality of non-threaded channels.

[0102] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have threads of the interrupted thread portion and threads of the discontinuous thread portion that are timing threads.

[0103] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have the first medical device, the first medical device also including a base, wherein the protrusion extends from the distal side of the base, and wherein a movable non-ridged spacer extends from the distal side of the base. Such exemplary embodiments may also optionally include a pin extending from the distal side of the base. It should be understood that such exemplary medical device connection mechanism may have the second medical device, the second medical device also including a proximal side of the second medical device, wherein the proximal side of the second medical device also includes a movable non-ridged spacer receiver. In such exemplary embodiments, the proximal side of the second medical device may also optionally define an arcuate groove, which is configured to tightly receive the pin of the first medical device when the configuration of the medical device connection mechanism is changed from a pre-assembled configuration to an assembled configuration.

[0104] The exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may also include a plurality of additional medical devices disposed between the first medical device and the second medical device when the medical device connection mechanism is placed in the assembled configuration.

[0105] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have the first medical device selected from the group consisting essentially of: an adapter, a handle, and a positioning member.

[0106] An exemplary orthopedic medical device attachment mechanism may have the second medical device selected from the group consisting essentially of a broach, a reamer, a rasp, a keel punch, and a bone cutting device.

[0107] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism can have the second medical device selected from the group consisting essentially of an endoprosthesis cone, an endoprosthesis implant, and an endoprosthesis implant component.

[0108] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have the second medical device being an auxiliary adapter configured to engage an orthopedic instrument, an orthopedic endoprosthesis implant, or a component thereof.

[0109] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have the non-threaded passageway being a keyed slot recessed within the body of the second medical device.

[0110] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism may have the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion being a keyed interrupted threaded portion.

[0111] An exemplary orthopedic medical device connection mechanism includes: a first medical device, the first medical device having: a protrusion, the protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along the height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end; and a second medical device, the second medical device having: a body; an inner side wall, the inner side wall defining a hole extending into the body; a discontinuous threaded portion, the discontinuous threaded portion being disposed in the hole, the discontinuous threaded portion defining a non-threaded channel extending along the height of the discontinuous threaded portion, and the discontinuous threaded portion being configured to receive the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion of the first medical device through the non-threaded channel, wherein the threads of the interrupted threaded portion and the threads of the discontinuous threaded portion are timing threads.

[0112] Although the present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments, it is contemplated that these changes and modifications will no doubt be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the appended claims be interpreted as covering all changes and modifications that fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An orthopedic medical device connection mechanism, comprising: A first medical device, the first medical device comprising: a protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of a protrusion body, the protrusion body including an interrupted thread portion disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end; and A second medical device, the second medical device comprising: main body, an inner sidewall defining an aperture extending into the body, a discontinuous threaded portion disposed within the hole, The discontinuous threaded portion defines an unthreaded channel extending along a height of the discontinuous threaded portion, and the discontinuous threaded portion is configured to receive the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion of the first medical device through the unthreaded channel. 2 . The orthopedic medical device connection mechanism according to claim 1 , wherein the threads of the interrupted thread portion and the threads of the discontinuous thread portion have a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.

3. An orthopedic medical device connection mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the discontinuous threaded portion defines a plurality of non-threaded channels extending along the height of the discontinuous threaded portion, and wherein the discontinuous threaded portion is configured to receive the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion of the first medical device through the plurality of non-threaded channels.

4. The orthopedic medical device connection mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the threads of the interrupted thread portion and the threads of the discontinuous thread portion are timed threads.

5. An orthopedic medical device connecting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the first medical device also includes a base, the protrusion extends from the distal side of the base, and a movable non-ridge spacer extends from the distal side of the base, wherein the second medical device also includes a proximal side of the second medical device, wherein the proximal side of the second medical device also includes a movable non-ridge spacer receiver, and wherein the proximal side of the second medical device also defines an arcuate groove, which is configured to tightly receive the movable non-ridge spacer of the first medical device when the configuration of the medical device connecting mechanism is changed from a pre-assembled configuration to an assembled configuration.

6. The orthopedic medical device connection mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first medical device is selected from the group consisting essentially of: an adapter, a handle, and a positioning member.

7. The orthopedic medical device connection mechanism of claim 1, wherein the second medical device is selected from the group consisting essentially of a broach, a reamer, a file, a keel punch, and a bone cutting device.

8. The orthopedic medical device attachment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the second medical device is selected from the group consisting essentially of an endoprosthesis cone, an endoprosthesis implant, and an endoprosthesis implant component.

9. The orthopedic medical device connection mechanism of claim 1, wherein the second medical device is an auxiliary adapter configured to engage an orthopedic instrument, an orthopedic endoprosthesis implant, or a component thereof.

10. The orthopedic medical device connection mechanism of claim 1, wherein the non-threaded channel is a keyed slot, the keyed slot is recessed in the body of the second medical device, and wherein the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion is a keyed interrupted threaded portion.

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