An orthopaedic implant

Abstract

This application discloses an implant including a guide rod, a head, a plurality of movable balls, and a plurality of connecting members. The guide rod includes a first threaded portion having a first thread and a second threaded portion having a second thread, the first threaded portion being disposed at the front end of the guide rod, and the second threaded portion being disposed at the rear end of the guide rod. The head includes a hole having an internal thread for engaging at least a portion of the first thread of the guide rod. Each movable ball has a hole and a curved surface. Each connecting member has a hole, an inner surface, a front arcuate profile, and a rear arcuate profile. The plurality of movable balls and the plurality of connecting members are alternately disposed on the guide rod.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to medical implants. Specifically, it relates to an orthopedic implant. Background Technology

[0002] Orthopedic implants are medical devices used to replace or support damaged joints or bones, playing a crucial role in restoring motor function, relieving pain, and improving the overall quality of life for patients with musculoskeletal disorders or injuries. These devices encompass a variety of structures, such as artificial joints (hip, knee, and shoulder joints), plates, screws, rods, and other fixation devices, used in various surgical procedures including joint replacement, fracture fixation, and bone reconstruction. They are designed to mimic the biomechanical function and structural integrity of natural bone and joint tissues.

[0003] Traditional fixation systems (including bone plates and multiple bone screws) are widely used in orthopedic surgery. These systems typically use a set of bone screws to fix one or more bone plates to a fractured or thinned bone. However, this conventional approach has several drawbacks. For example, commonly used bone screws are straight and inserted along a straight path, making it difficult to provide adequate fixation for longer segments of bone. The anatomical structure of bones often has curves and contours, making it difficult to achieve firm and stable fixation. Straight bone screws are prone to rotation or torsion due to the curvature of the bone, which can lead to loosening or reduced strength of the fixation over time. This instability can cause implant displacement or dislocation, resulting in implant failure and causing significant discomfort or pain to the patient.

[0004] Another major drawback of traditional bone fixation systems is the large incision required for surgical implantation of bone plates. Bone plates are typically long and rigid, requiring complete exposure during surgery for proper placement and fixation. This results in a large incision matching the plate's size, leading to more severe trauma at the surgical site. Large incisions not only increase surgical complexity and duration but also prolong the patient's recovery period, as the patient must recover from both internal fixation surgery and external tissue damage caused by the incision. Furthermore, extensive soft tissue injury increases the risk of postoperative complications such as infection and delayed healing.

[0005] For patients with multiple fractures, the limitations of conventional implants are even more pronounced. Treatment of multiple fractures typically requires the use of multiple plates and screws, each needing separate fixation. Each implant must be precisely placed, and large incisions are required to accommodate each fixation site, leading to longer and more complex surgeries. The risk of improper alignment or fixation further complicates the surgery and may cause additional complications during the patient's recovery period.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need for an orthopedic implant that can overcome the shortcomings of conventional fixation devices. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Specific embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of this application, and this application can be implemented in various forms. To avoid unnecessarily obscuring this application, well-known functions or structures are not described in detail. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but only as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to implement this application in virtually any suitable detailed structural variety.

[0008] This application relates to an orthopedic implant. The orthopedic implant includes a guide rod, a head, a plurality of movable balls, and a plurality of connecting members. The guide rod includes a first threaded portion located at its front end, having a first thread; the guide rod also includes a second threaded portion located at its rear end, having a second thread. The head has a hole with an internal thread for engaging with at least a portion of the first thread of the guide rod. Each movable ball has a hole and a curved surface. Each connecting member has a hole, an inner surface, a front arcuate profile, and a rear arcuate profile. The plurality of movable balls and the plurality of connecting members are alternately disposed on the guide rod. Attached Figure Description

[0009] A better understanding of the above-described invention and the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments can be obtained by reading the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary constructions of this application to illustrate the application. However, this application is not limited to the specific methods and apparatus disclosed herein. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the implant 100 in one embodiment of this application; Figure 1a This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the implant 100 in a bent state according to one embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is an isometric view of the guide sheath 110 in one embodiment of this application; Figure 2a This is an exploded schematic diagram of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is an isometric view of a sub-component 120 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3a This is an isometric view of the guide rod 121 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3b This is an isometric view of the head 123 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3c This is a schematic diagram of the front connector 125 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3d This is an isometric view of the movable ball 127 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3e This is an isometric view of the connector 129 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3f This is a multi-view stereoscopic view of the rear connector 131 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3g This is an isometric view of the first occlusion member 133 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3h This is an isometric view of the second occlusion element 135 of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a flowchart of an assembly method 400 for the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 4a This is a schematic diagram of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application being implanted into the femur of a patient; Figure 4b This is a schematic diagram of the implant 100 described in one embodiment of this application being implanted into the pelvic bone of a patient; Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the implant 200 in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5a This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the implant 200 in a bent state according to one embodiment of this application; Figure 5b This is an isometric view of the guide rod 221 of the implant 200 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5c This is an isometric view of the head 223 of the implant 200 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5d This is a multi-view stereoscopic view of the front connector 225 of the implant 200 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5e , Figure 5f This is a multi-view isometric view of the movable ball 227 of the implant 200 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5g , Figure 5h This is a multi-view isometric view of the connector 229 of the implant 200 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5i This is a multi-view stereoscopic view of the rear connector 231 of the implant 200 described in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5j This is an isometric view of the occlusion element 233 of the implant 200 described in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0011] Before detailing this application, some terms used throughout the text are defined as follows: the terms "comprising," "including," and their derivatives indicate non-restrictive inclusion; the term "or" is an inclusive term, indicating and / or; the phrases "connected," "associated," and their derivatives can indicate inclusion, containment, interconnection, containment, being contained, linking, coupling, connecting, cooperating, interleaving, juxtaposing, adjacent, binding, having a certain attribute, etc. This application provides definitions for some terms throughout, and those skilled in the art should understand that these definitions apply to the existing and future uses of the terms in many (if not most) cases.

[0012] Throughout this application specification, the terms "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar expressions are used to indicate that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar expressions appearing throughout this application specification do not all refer to the same embodiment, but rather to "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise expressly stated. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise expressly stated. The enumerated items do not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and / or mutually inclusive, unless otherwise expressly stated. The terms "a," "an," and "the" also mean "one or more," unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0013] Although the operations of exemplary embodiments of the methods disclosed in this application may be described in a specific order for ease of description, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed in this application may cover an order of operations different from the specific order disclosed. For example, the operations described sequentially may be rearranged or performed synchronously in some cases. Furthermore, the description and disclosure provided in conjunction with a particular embodiment are not limited to the described embodiment and can be applied to any embodiment disclosed herein. In addition, for the sake of brevity, the accompanying drawings may not show various ways in which the disclosed systems, methods, and apparatus are used in combination with other systems, methods, and apparatuses.

[0014] Furthermore, the features, advantages, and characteristics described in the embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner. Those skilled in the art will recognize that embodiments can be implemented without one or more specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other cases, additional features and advantages not present in all embodiments may be identified in some embodiments. The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practicing the embodiments described below.

[0015] One embodiment of this application relates to an orthopedic implant for fixing fractures of any bone, including but not limited to the tibia, femur, humerus, radius, and carpal bones. The implant can also replace conventional intramedullary nail systems used for fracture fixation. The implant is flexible and can travel along curved paths. This flexibility allows the implant to better conform to the patient's anatomy, achieving a more precise and adaptive fixation method compared to conventional implants. This adaptability improves the effectiveness of the implant in orthopedic surgery and the overall treatment outcome. Unlike conventional implants that require long incisions to accommodate bone plates, the implant described in this application requires only minimally invasive surgery, shortening the patient's recovery time. Therefore, the implant disclosed in this application is easier to implant than conventional implants. Due to its flexible structure, the implant described in this application can better adapt to the curved trajectory of the medullary cavity. Furthermore, the implant can traverse complex paths formed by reaming multiple fractures and fix multiple bone fragments together to promote healing.

[0016] In one embodiment, the implant includes a guide rod, a head, a plurality of movable balls, a plurality of connectors, a front connector, a rear connector, and at least one occlusion device. The guide rod is elongated and flexible. The guide rod is connected to the head, the plurality of movable balls, the plurality of connectors, the front connector, the rear connector, and the at least one occlusion device to form a sub-assembly.

[0017] According to one embodiment of this application, the head is connected to the front end of the guide rod. A front connector connects the head to the guide rod. A plurality of movable balls and a plurality of connectors are alternately disposed on the guide rod. A first movable ball is disposed near the rear end of the front connector and connected to the corresponding connector. A rear connector is disposed near the rear end of the last movable ball and connected to the last movable ball. The rear connector is disposed above the guide rod. At least one occluder connects the rear connector to the guide rod, thereby forming a sub-assembly. The implant may include a guide sheath. The guide sheath is a flexible tubular structure. The sub-assembly is inserted into the guide sheath from its rear end and connected to the guide sheath at its front end.

[0018] Referring to the accompanying drawings in the instruction manual, Figure 1 This diagram shows a cross-sectional view of an orthopedic implant 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 1aA cross-sectional schematic diagram of the implant 100 according to one embodiment extending along a curved path is shown. The implant 100 includes a front end 100a and a rear end 100b. The implant 100 includes a guide rod 121, a head 123, a front connector 125, a plurality of movable balls 127 (e.g., movable balls 127c-127f), a plurality of connectors 129 (e.g., connectors 129e-129g), a rear connector 131, and at least one occluder. In one embodiment, the at least one occluder includes a first occluder 133 and a second occluder 135. Furthermore, the head 123, the front connector 125, the plurality of movable balls 127 (or the movable balls 127), the plurality of connectors 129 (or the connectors 129), the rear connector 131, the first occluder 133, and the second occluder 135 are assembled on the guide rod 121 to form a sub-assembly 120. The sub-component 120 is flexible and can travel along a curved path within the bone (e.g., Figure 1a (As shown).

[0019] In one embodiment, the implant 100 may include a guide sheath 110 adapted for assembly with the sub-component 120. Figure 2 An isometric view of the guide sheath 110 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 2a An exploded view of the implant 100 with the guide sheath 110 according to one embodiment is shown. The guide sheath 110 includes a front end 110a and a rear end 110b. In one embodiment, the guide sheath 110 is cylindrical and gradually narrows towards the front end 110a. The narrowing shape of the guide sheath 110 towards the front end 110a facilitates the entry of the guide sheath 110 into the medullary cavity.

[0020] The guide sheath 110 is provided with a locking element 110d at its front end 110a. For example... Figure 2As shown, the guide sheath 110 is flexible and can be tubular, forming a cavity (not shown in the figure). The cavity extends from the rear end 110b to the front end 110a along the length of the guide sheath 110, and the cavity is at least used to accommodate the movable ball 127 and the connector 129. In one embodiment, the cavity of the guide sheath 110 is used to accommodate the sub-assembly 120. Furthermore, the guide sheath 110 has a plurality of holes 110c on its outer surface 110e. The plurality of holes 110c on the outer surface 110e facilitates bone growth through osseointegration. Bone growth within the plurality of holes 110c enhances the fixation effect of the implant 100. The shapes of the plurality of holes 110c include, but are not limited to, squares, rectangles, rhombuses, triangles, circles, ellipses, and ovals. The shape and size of the plurality of holes 110c can be the same or different. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of holes 110c are square and of uniform size.

[0021] Furthermore, the guide sheath 110 is implanted into the medullary cavity such that the outer surface 110e of the guide sheath 110 conforms to the medullary cavity. The guide sheath 110 facilitates the movement of the sub-assembly 120 along a curved path within the bone.

[0022] Additionally, the guide sheath 110 has a front opening 110f at its front end 110a and a rear opening 110g at its rear end 110b. The rear opening 110g of the guide sheath 110 allows the sub-assembly 120 to be inserted into the cavity of the guide sheath 110. The front opening 110f allows a portion of the head 123 of the sub-assembly 120 to pass through the guide sheath 110. The guide sheath 110 is connected to the head 123. The locking member 110d is circumferentially arranged around the front opening 110f of the guide sheath 110 and is used to lock the sub-assembly 120 to the guide sheath 110. In one embodiment, the locking member 110d is a flange structure.

[0023] In one embodiment, the guide sheath 110 may be made of a biocompatible material, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the guide sheath 110 is made of titanium. The size of the guide sheath 110 can be selected according to the size of the bone to be implanted in the implant 100 and the required degree of fixation.

[0024] Figure 3An isometric view of a sub-assembly 120 of an implant 100 according to one embodiment is shown. The sub-assembly 120 includes a plurality of movable balls 127 (e.g., movable balls 127c-127f) assembled on a guide rod 121, a plurality of connectors 129 (e.g., connectors 129e-129g), a head 123, a front connector 125, a rear connector 131, a first occluder 133, and a second occluder 135. The plurality of movable balls 127 and the plurality of connectors 129 are alternately arranged along a portion of the length of the guide rod 121 and are locked by the front connector 125, the rear connector 131, the first occluder 133, and the second occluder 135 to hold the plurality of movable balls 127 and the plurality of connectors 129 on the guide rod 121.

[0025] Figure 3a An isometric view of the guide rod 121 according to one embodiment is shown. The guide rod 121 is flexible and adaptable to the path formed during surgical implantation. The guide rod 121 is bendable and can pass through a curved medullary cavity path. A plurality of movable balls 127 and a plurality of connecting members 129 are alternately disposed on the guide rod 121. The guide rod 121 includes a front end 121a and a rear end 121b. The guide rod 121 includes a first thread 121c, a second thread 121d, a front surface 121f, and a rear surface (not shown in the figure). The guide rod 121 has a first threaded portion 121g at the front end 121a and a second threaded portion 121k at the rear end 121b. The first thread 121c is disposed on the first threaded portion 121g of the guide rod 121, and the second thread 121d is disposed on the second threaded portion 121k of the guide rod 121.

[0026] In one embodiment, the guide rod 121 includes a non-threaded portion 121h disposed between the first threaded portion 121g and the second threaded portion 121k, and the non-threaded portion 121h has a surface 121e. A plurality of movable balls 127 and a plurality of connecting members 129 are alternately disposed on the non-threaded portion 121h of the guide rod 121. In one embodiment, the diameter of the first threaded portion 121g is larger than the diameter of the non-threaded portion 121h and the second threaded portion 121k. This helps prevent accidental movement and / or dislocation of the movable balls 127 and the connecting members 129 toward the front end 121a of the guide rod 121. In another embodiment, the diameter of the first threaded portion 121g may be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the non-threaded portion 121h and the second threaded portion 121k. The diameters of the non-threaded portion 121h and the second threaded portion 121k may be the same.

[0027] The guide rod 121 may be made of biocompatible metals or polymers such as titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, or highly cross-linked polyethylene containing vitamin E. In one exemplary embodiment, the guide rod 121 is made of titanium. In one embodiment, the size of the guide rod 121 may be selected according to the size of the bone to be implanted in the implant 100 and the required degree of fixation.

[0028] Figure 3b An isometric view of a head 123 according to one embodiment is shown. The head 123 includes a front end 123a and a rear end 123b. The head 123 may be tubular, gradually narrowing from the rear end 123b to the front end 123a, i.e., the diameter of the head 123 gradually decreases from the rear end 123b to the front end 123a. The narrowing shape of the head 123 facilitates the insertion of the implant 100 into the medullary cavity during surgical implantation. In an exemplary embodiment, the head 123 may be truncated conical. A groove 123c is circumferentially provided on the outer surface of the head 123, the groove 123c being a predetermined distance from the front end 123a, the groove 123c dividing the head 123 into a front portion 123a1 and a rear portion 123b1. In an exemplary embodiment, the groove 123c may be located at approximately half the length of the head 123.

[0029] The groove 123c of the head 123 engages with the locking member 110d of the guide sheath 110 to lock the sub-assembly 120 to the guide sheath 110. The width of the locking member 110d matches the width of the groove 123c. Furthermore, the front portion 123a1 of the head 123 passes through the front opening 110f of the guide sheath 110, facilitating the engagement of the groove 123c with the locking member 110d of the guide sheath 110 to secure the sub-assembly 120. The front portion 123a1 of the head 123 may be solid, and the rear portion 123b1 may be hollow. The rear portion 123b1 of the head 123 is provided with a hole 123d, which extends from the rear surface 123f of the head 123 along at least a portion of the length of the rear portion 123b1 and terminates at an end face 123d1.

[0030] In one embodiment, the profile of the hole 123d is adapted to the profile of the first threaded portion 121g of the guide rod 121. The diameter of the hole 123d is adapted to the diameter of the first threaded portion 121g of the guide rod 121. The hole 123d is provided with an internal thread 123e. The internal thread 123e is complementary to the first thread 121c. The internal thread 123e of the head 123 is used to mate with at least a portion of the first thread 121c of the guide rod 121 to form a threaded connection. Furthermore, the front surface 121f is in contact with the end face 123d1 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). It should be understood that other structures connecting the head 123 to the guide rod 121, such as tapered fits and snap-fit ​​fits, also fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0031] The head 123 may be made of biocompatible materials, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, and 316 stainless steel. In one exemplary embodiment, the head 123 is made of titanium. The size of the head 123 may be selected according to the size of the bone to be implanted in the implant 100 and the required degree of fixation.

[0032] Figure 3c An isometric view of the front connector 125 according to one embodiment is shown. The shape of the front connector 125 includes, but is not limited to, cylindrical, circular, and annular shapes. In an exemplary embodiment, the front connector 125 is annular. The front end of the front connector 125 is provided with a flat surface 125a, the rear end of the front connector 125 is provided with a curved surface 125b, and the inner circumference of the front connector 125 is provided with an internal thread 125c. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the front connector 125 is adapted to the diameter of the first threaded portion 121g of the guide rod 121. The internal thread 125c is used to mate with the rear portion of the first thread 121c of the first threaded portion 121g of the guide rod 121. The internal thread 125c is complementary to the first thread 121c of the first threaded portion 121g. The flat surface 125a is used to fit against the rear surface 123f of the head 123.

[0033] The front connector 125 is connected to the first threaded portion 121g of the guide rod 121. The internal thread 125c of the front connector 125 is connected to the rear portion of the first thread 121c of the first threaded portion 121g on the guide rod 121. Other structures connecting the front connector 125 to the guide rod 121, such as tapered fits and snap-fit ​​fits, also fall within the protection scope of this application. In addition, the front connector 125 is connected to the head 123 on the guide rod 121, such that the plane 125a of the front connector 125 abuts against the rear surface 123f of the head 123. The front connector 125 and the head 123 rotate in opposite directions until they abut against each other. The front connector 125 is also connected to one of the plurality of movable balls 127 (for example, the first movable ball 127c in the described embodiment).

[0034] The anterior connector 125 may be made of biocompatible materials, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, and 316 stainless steel. In one exemplary embodiment, the anterior connector 125 is made of titanium. The size of the anterior connector 125 may be selected according to the size of the bone to be implanted in the implant 100 and the required degree of fixation.

[0035] The plurality of movable balls 127 are axially sleeved on the surface 121e of the guide rod 121. Figure 3d An isometric view of one of a plurality of movable balls 127 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 3d As shown, the movable ball 127 has a hole 127a at its center, and the hole 127a extends along an axis corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the guide rod 121. Furthermore, the movable ball 127 may be spherical and have a curved surface 127b. The hole 127a defines the inner surface 127a1 of the movable ball 127. The hole 127a may be a cylindrical through hole. The diameter of the hole 127a is adapted to the diameter of the non-threaded portion 121h of the guide rod 121. The movable ball 127 passes through the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 and is fitted onto the surface 121e of the guide rod 121. The inner surface 127a1 is used to fit against the surface 121e of the guide rod 121.

[0036] The plurality of movable balls 127 may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of movable balls 127 are made of titanium. The size of the plurality of movable balls 127 may be selected according to the size of the bone to be implanted in the implant 100 and the required degree of fixation.

[0037] In one embodiment, the plurality of connecting members 129 are axially sleeved on the surface 121e of the guide rod 121. Figure 3e This diagram illustrates a multi-view isometric view of one of a plurality of connectors 129 according to one embodiment. The shapes of the connectors 129 include, but are not limited to, cylindrical, circular, and annular shapes. In one exemplary embodiment, the connector 129 is annular. Each connector 129 has a front arcuate profile 129a at its front end, a rear arcuate profile 129b at its rear end, and a hole 129c at the center of each connector 129, the hole 129c defining the inner surface 129d of the connector 129 (e.g., ...). Figure 3e (As shown). The annular shape of the connector 129 facilitates a smoother fit and sliding of the front arcuate contour 129a and the rear arcuate contour 129b on the curved surface 127b of the movable ball 127, which helps to more easily achieve the curved contour of the implant 100. The diameter of the hole 129c is adapted to the diameter of the non-threaded portion 121h of the guide rod 121. The inner surface 129d is used to fit against the surface 121e of the guide rod 121.

[0038] Each of the connecting members 129 is disposed between and connected to the two movable balls 127. The front arcuate profile 129a and the rear arcuate profile 129b of the connecting member 129 are used to mate with the curved surfaces 127b corresponding to the two movable balls 127 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). For example, the front arcuate profile 129a of each of the connectors 129 is movably engaged with the rear part of the curved surface 127b of the front movable ball 127 disposed at the front end of the connector 129, and the rear arcuate profile 129b of the connector 129 is movably engaged with the front part of the curved surface 127b of the rear movable ball 127 disposed at the rear end of the connector 129.

[0039] The plurality of connectors 129 may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of connectors 129 are made of titanium. The dimensions of the plurality of connectors 129 may be selected according to the size of the bone to which the implant 100 is to be implanted and the required degree of fixation. According to one embodiment, the outer diameter of the plurality of connectors 129 may be smaller than the diameter of the plurality of movable balls 127. This ensures that the outer surface of the connectors 129 will not interfere when the implant 100 travels along a curved path.

[0040] The plurality of movable balls 127 and the plurality of connecting members 129 are alternately disposed on the guide rod 121, such that each pair of movable balls 127 and connecting members 129 form a ball-and-socket joint. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of connecting members 129 includes three connecting members 129e-129g, and the plurality of movable balls 127 includes four movable balls 127c-127f (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). The number of movable balls 127 and connectors 129 described in this application is merely an example. It should be understood that any number of movable balls 127 and connectors 129 can be used without departing from the scope of protection of this application. The number of movable balls 127 and connectors 129 is selected according to the required length of the implant 100, which depends on the required fixation amount.

[0041] Figure 3f A multi-view perspective view of the rear connector 131 according to one embodiment is shown. The rear connector 131 is disposed at the rear end of the last movable ball 127f. The shape of the rear connector 131 includes, but is not limited to, cylindrical, circular, and annular shapes. In one embodiment, the rear connector 131 is cylindrical and has a hole 131c and an outer surface 131e. The hole 131c may have an inner surface 131c1 and a stepped structure 131p. The stepped structure 131p extends a portion of the length of the rear connector 131 from its rear end toward its front end. The stepped structure 131p may include a first surface 131b and a second surface 131d. The first surface 131b may be a straight surface parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rear connector 131, and the second surface 131d may be inclined inward. The front end of the rear connector 131 may have a front curved surface 131a. The rear end of the rear connector 131 may have a rear end face 131h and a rear curved surface 131f. Furthermore, the rear connector 131 may have a plurality of grooves 131g provided at the rear end face 131h, the grooves 131g extending along the length of the stepped structure 131p of the rear connector 131. In one embodiment, the grooves 131g are used to clamp the rear connector 131 when connecting at least one occluder (described later). The first face 131b and the rear curved surface 131f are used to guide the at least one occluder during the assembly of the implant 100.

[0042] In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the rear connector 131 is larger than the diameter of the guide rod 121. The rear connector 131 passes through the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121. Figure 1As shown, the outer surface 131e is press-fitted and fits against the inner surface (not shown) of the guide sheath 110. The front curved surface 131a of the rear connector 131 is movably fitted with the rear portion of the curved surface 127b of the last movable ball 127 (i.e., the last movable ball 127f in the described embodiment). Furthermore, as... Figure 1 As shown, the rear connector 131 can be sleeved on the second thread 121d of the guide rod 121, so that there is a gap between the inner surface 131c1 of the hole 131c and the second thread 121d.

[0043] In one embodiment, the rear connector 131 may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear connector 131 is made of titanium.

[0044] The at least one occluding member of the implant 100 is connected to the second threaded portion 121k of the rear connector 131 and the guide rod 121, thereby holding the plurality of movable balls 127 and the plurality of connectors 129 on the guide rod 121. Figure 3g The first sealing member 133 according to one embodiment is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the first sealing member 133 has a cylindrical portion 133a at its front end and a disc portion 133b at its rear end. Other functionally equivalent shapes of the first sealing member 133 also fall within the scope of this application. The first sealing member 133 is connected to the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 and the rear end of the rear connector 131, holding the plurality of connectors 129 and the plurality of movable balls 127 on the guide rod 121 to form the sub-assembly 120.

[0045] In one embodiment, the cylindrical portion 133a includes a hole 133a3 with an internal thread 133a1. The internal thread 133a1 engages with the rear portion of the second thread 121d of the guide rod 121, such that at least two threads of the second thread 121d at the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 extend from the hole 133a3 toward the rear end of the first sealing member 133. The cylindrical portion 133a has an outer surface 133a2 for engaging with the inner surface 131c1 of the rear connector 131 during assembly. The disc portion 133b has a rear surface 133b1 including a groove with a surface 133b2 and an extension surface 133b3. The internal thread 133a1 is provided along the length direction of the cylindrical portion 133a of the first sealing member 133. The surface 133b2 can be polygonal, circular, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface 133b2 is hexagonal. The disc portion 133b has an outer surface 133b4. The extended surface 133b3 is the front surface of the disc portion 133b of the first sealing member 133. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the hole 133a3 of the cylindrical portion 133a is adapted to the diameter of the second threaded portion 121k of the guide rod 121. The first sealing member 133 is screwed onto the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 to fix the plurality of connecting members 129, the rear connecting member 131, and the plurality of movable balls 127.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 133 engages with the rear connector 131 and the guide rod 121 in such a manner that the first sealing member 133 passes through the rear connector 131 from its rear end. The first surface 131b of the rear connector 131 guides the outer surface 133b4 of the disc portion 133b of the first sealing member 133. The inner surface 131c1 guides and conforms to the outer surface 133a2. The groove of the first sealing member 133 is used to clamp the first sealing member 133 when it is connected to the rear connector 131. For example, a surgical instrument (not shown) is placed at the surface 133b2 to rotate the first sealing member 133, thereby connecting the first sealing member 133 to the guide rod 121 and the rear connector 131. For example, the surgical instrument is rotated until the internal thread 133a1 of the first sealing member 133 engages with the rear portion of the second thread 121d of the guide rod 121, such that at least two threads of the second thread 121d extend from the hole 133a3 toward the rear end of the first sealing member 133, and the extended surface 133b3 abuts against the second surface 131d of the stepped structure 131p of the rear connector 131. The surgical instrument includes, but is not limited to, an internal hex wrench, a screwdriver (e.g., a simple hex screwdriver), and a smart device (e.g., a torque-limiting wrench).

[0047] Figure 3h A second sealing member 135 according to one embodiment is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the second sealing member 135 includes the cylindrical portion 135a and the disc portion 135b. Other functionally equivalent shapes of the second sealing member 135 also fall within the scope of protection of this application. The second sealing member 135 may also have other equivalent shapes falling within the scope of protection disclosed in this application. The second sealing member 135 may be connected to the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 and the rear end of the first sealing member 133, holding the plurality of connecting members 129 and the plurality of movable balls 127 on the guide rod 121 to form the sub-assembly 120.

[0048] In one embodiment, the cylindrical portion 135a includes a hole 135a3 with an internal thread 135a1 for engaging at least two threads of the second thread 121d of the guide rod 121. The cylindrical portion 135a has an outer surface 135a2 for contacting the first surface 131b of the rear connector 131 during assembly. The disc portion 133b has a rear surface 135b1 including a groove with a surface 135b2 and an extending surface 135b3. The internal thread 135a1 may be arranged along the length of the cylindrical portion 135a of the second sealing member 135. The surface 135b2 may be polygonal, circular, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface 135b2 is hexagonal. The extended surface 135b3 is the front surface of the disc portion 135b of the second sealing member 135. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the internal thread 135a1 of the cylindrical portion 135a is adapted to the diameter of the second thread portion 121k of the guide rod 121. The second sealing member 135 is screwed onto the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 to secure the plurality of connecting members 129, the rear connecting member 131, and the plurality of movable balls 127.

[0049] In one embodiment, the second occluder 135 engages with the rear connector 131 and the guide rod 121 in the following manner: the second occluder 135 passes through the rear connector 131 from its rear end. The first surface 131b of the rear connector 131 guides and conforms to the outer surface 135a2 of the cylindrical portion 135a of the second occluder 135. A groove in the second occluder 135 is used to clamp the second occluder 135 when it is connected to the rear connector 131. A surgical instrument (not shown) is placed at the surface 135b2 to rotate the second occluder 135, thereby connecting the second occluder 135 to the guide rod 121 and the rear connector 131. For example, the surgical instrument is rotated until at least two threads of the internal thread 135a1 of the second sealing member 135 engage with the second thread 121d of the guide rod 121, and the extension surface 135b3 abuts against the rear curved surface 131f of the rear connector 131. The surgical instrument includes, but is not limited to, an internal hex wrench, a screwdriver (e.g., a simple hex screwdriver), and a smart instrument (e.g., a torque-limiting wrench).

[0050] In one embodiment, the combined use of the first occluder 133 and the second occluder 135 provides greater stability to the implant 100 compared to a single occluder. The dual-occluder structure ensures better position retention, reducing the likelihood of displacement or misalignment during use. By distributing forces more evenly, the two occluders (i.e., the first occluder 133 and the second occluder 135) effectively resist external pressure or stress, making the implant 100 more reliable and stable in various application scenarios. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of the first occluder 133 and the second occluder 135 can also improve the performance of the implant 100 and extend its lifespan.

[0051] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating an assembly method 400 of the implant 100 according to one embodiment is shown. In step 401, the head 123 is connected to the front end 121a of the guide rod 121 through the hole 123d corresponding to the internal thread. Figure 1 As shown, the internal thread 123e of the head 123 engages with the thread corresponding to the first thread 121c of the guide rod 121 (i.e., the front part).

[0052] In step 403, the front connector 125 is connected to the guide rod 121 via a threaded connection. In one embodiment, as... Figure 1 As shown, the internal thread 125c of the front connector 125 engages with the thread corresponding to the first thread 121c of the guide rod 121 (i.e., the rear part), and the rear surface 123f fits against the plane 125a. The front connector 125 and the head 123 can rotate in opposite directions, causing the rear surface 123f to abut against the plane 125a.

[0053] In step 405, such as Figure 1 As shown, the plurality of movable balls 127 and the plurality of connecting members 129 are alternately arranged on the guide rod 121. The plurality of movable balls 127 and the plurality of connecting members 129 can be alternately inserted into the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 and connected to each other in the following manner.

[0054] For example, the first movable ball 127c is sleeved onto the guide rod 121 from the rear end 121b. The front portion of the curved surface 127b of the first movable ball 127c is movably engaged with the curved surface 125b of the front connecting member 125. The inner surface 127a1 of the first movable ball 127c is in contact with the surface 121e of the guide rod 121.

[0055] The connecting member 129e is sleeved onto the guide rod 121 from the rear end 121b. The front arcuate profile 129a of the connecting member 129e is movably engaged with the rear part of the curved surface 127b of the first movable ball 127c. The inner surface 129d of the connecting member 129e is in contact with the surface 121e of the guide rod 121.

[0056] The movable ball 127d is sleeved onto the guide rod 121 from the rear end 121b. The front part of the curved surface 127b of the movable ball 127d is movably engaged with the rear arc profile 129b of the connecting member 129e. The inner surface 127a1 of the movable ball 127d is in contact with the surface 121e of the guide rod 121.

[0057] The connecting member 129f is sleeved onto the guide rod 121 from the rear end 121b. The front arcuate profile 129a of the connecting member 129f movably engages with the rear part of the curved surface 127b of the movable ball 127d. The inner surface 129d of the connecting member 129f abuts against the surface 121e of the guide rod 121.

[0058] The movable ball 127e and the connecting member 129g are similarly sleeved on the guide rod 121 and connected to each other. The last movable ball 127f is sleeved on the guide rod 121 from the rear end 121b. The front part of the curved surface 127b of the last movable ball 127f is movably engaged with the rear arcuate contour 129b of the connecting member 129g. The inner surface 127a1 of the last movable ball 127f is in contact with the surface 121e. In an exemplary embodiment, the movable ball 127 and the connecting member 129 may be arranged in other ways, all of which fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0059] In step 407, the rear connector 131 is sleeved onto the guide rod 121 from the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121. The front curved surface 131a of the rear connector 131 is in movable engagement with the rear part of the curved surface 127b of the last movable ball 127f.

[0060] In step 409, the first sealing member 133 and the second sealing member 135 are connected to the rear connector 131 and the guide rod 121. In one embodiment, the first sealing member 133 and the second sealing member 135 pass through the rear end 121b of the guide rod 121 and are connected to the rear connector 131 and the guide rod 121 as described above, thereby forming the sub-assembly 120.

[0061] In step 411, the sub-component 120 is connected to the guide sheath 110. For example, the front portion of the sub-component 120 passes through the cavity of the guide sheath 110 from the rear end 110b. The locking member 110d engages with the groove 123c to complete the assembly of the implant 100.

[0062] According to one embodiment, during the implantation surgery of the implant 100, an incision is made at the target site. A suitable guidewire is inserted into the bone and advanced, forming a path according to the fixation location and the required degree of fixation. The path is curved. When the guidewire has taken on a shape corresponding to the path, a reamer (e.g., a flexible hollow reamer) is inserted into the bone. The reamer reams along the path formed by the guidewire to create a medullary cavity of suitable diameter. The reamer and guidewire are removed. The guide sheath 110 is inserted into the medullary cavity. Subsequently, the sub-assembly 120 is inserted into the guide sheath 110 and connected to the guide sheath 110. Alternatively, without using the guide sheath 110, the sub-assembly 120 is directly inserted into the medullary cavity to fix a joint or fracture site. Figure 4a and Figure 4b The implant 100 is shown implanted in the femur and pelvis of a patient, respectively. It can be seen that the number of movable balls 127 and connectors 129 differs in both cases, the number being selected according to the desired fixation effect. Furthermore, the implant 100 is capable of conforming to the curvature of the femur and pelvis.

[0063] Figure 5 This illustration shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an orthopedic implant 200 (or implant 200) according to another embodiment of this application. Figure 5a A cross-sectional view of the implant 200 according to another embodiment of this application in a bent state is shown. The implant 200 includes a rear end 200a and a front end 200b. The implant 200 includes a guide rod 221, a head 223, a front connector 225, a plurality of movable balls 227 (e.g., movable balls 227d-227n), a plurality of connectors 229 (e.g., connectors 229e-229n), a rear connector 231, and at least one occluder. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one occluder includes a single occluder 233. The guide rod 221, the head 223, the front connector 225, the plurality of movable balls 227, the plurality of connectors 229, the rear connector 231, and the occluder 233 are assembled to form a sub-assembly 220. The implant 200 may include a guide sheath 210. During surgical implantation, the guide sheath 210 is assembled with the sub-assembly 220. The implant 200 is flexible and can travel along a curved path within the bone. Figure 5a A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the implant 200 along a curved path is shown.

[0064] In one embodiment, the guide sheath 210 has a similar structure and function to the guide sheath 110. Details of the guide sheath 210 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 2 For the sake of brevity, this will not be repeated here. The guide sheath 210 is inserted into the medullary cavity. In one embodiment, the guide sheath 210 is assembled with the sub-assembly 220 during the operation. The plurality of movable balls 227 and the plurality of connecting members 229 are alternately disposed on the guide rod 221 and locked by the front connecting member 225, the rear connecting member 231 and the sealing member 233, holding the plurality of movable balls 227 and the plurality of connecting members 229 on the guide rod 221. The sub-assembly 220 passes through the cavity of the guide sheath 210 and is assembled with the guide sheath 210 in the manner described above.

[0065] Figure 5b An isometric view of the guide rod 221 according to one embodiment is shown. The movable ball 227 and the connecting member 229 are alternately disposed on the guide rod 221. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the implant 100 may use the guide rod 221 instead of the guide rod 121; similarly, in some embodiments, the implant 200 may use the guide rod 121 instead of the guide rod 221, without departing from the scope of protection of this application. In one embodiment, the guide rod 221 includes a front end 221a and a rear end 221b. The guide rod 221 includes a first threaded portion 221g disposed at the front end 221a, a second threaded portion 221k disposed at the rear end 221b, and a rear surface 221f. The first thread 221c is disposed on the first threaded portion 221g of the guide rod 221, and the second thread 221d is disposed on the second threaded portion 221k of the guide rod 221.

[0066] In one embodiment, the guide rod 221 includes a non-threaded portion 221h disposed between the first threaded portion 221g and the second threaded portion 221k, and the non-threaded portion 221h has a surface 221e. A plurality of movable balls 227 and a plurality of connecting members 229 are alternately disposed on the non-threaded portion 221h of the guide rod 221.

[0067] In one embodiment, the guide rod 221 includes at least one support coil 221e1, which is sleeved on the non-threaded portion 221h of the guide rod 221, forming a surface 221e. The at least one support coil 221e1 can be formed by winding a corresponding wire around the non-threaded portion 221h. The at least one support coil 221e1 improves the flexibility and load distribution performance of the guide rod 221. The support coils 221e1 can be made of biocompatible materials, including but not limited to titanium alloys, carbon fiber reinforced plastics, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one support coil 221e1 is made of titanium. The guide rod 221 is flexible and can bend and pass through the medullary cavity trajectory during surgical implantation. The diameter of the first threaded portion 221g can be larger than the diameters of the non-threaded portion 221h and the second threaded portion 221k of the guide rod 221. In another embodiment, the diameter of the first threaded portion 221g may be equal to or less than the diameter of the non-threaded portion 221h and the second threaded portion 221k of the guide rod 221.

[0068] The guide rod 221 can be made of biocompatible metals or polymers such as titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, or highly cross-linked polyethylene containing vitamin E. In one exemplary embodiment, the guide rod 221 is made of titanium. In one embodiment, the size of the guide rod 221 can be selected according to the size of the bone to be implanted in the implant 100 and the required degree of fixation.

[0069] Figure 5c An isometric view of the head 223 according to one embodiment is shown. The head 223 is connected to the first threaded portion 221g of the guide rod 221. It should be understood that in different embodiments, the implant 100 may use the head 223 instead of the head 123; similarly, in different embodiments, the implant 200 may use the head 123 instead of the head 223, without departing from the scope of protection of this application. The head 223 includes a rear end 223b and a front end 223a. The head 223 may be tubular, gradually narrowing along its length from the front end 223a to the rear end 223b, such that the diameter of the head 223 gradually decreases from the rear end 223b to the front end 223a. The narrowing shape of the head 123 facilitates the insertion of the implant 200 into the patient's medullary cavity during surgical implantation.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, the head 223 is truncated cone-shaped. A groove 223c is circumferentially provided on the outer surface of the head 223 at a predetermined distance from the rear end 223b (e.g., ...). Figure 5cAs shown, the groove 223c divides the head 223 into a front portion 223a1 and a rear portion 223b1. The groove 223c engages with the locking member (not shown) of the guide sheath 210 to lock the sub-assembly 220 to the guide sheath 210. The front portion 223a1 passes through the front opening of the guide sheath 210 (not shown). The width of the groove 223c is adapted to the width of the locking member of the guide sheath 210.

[0071] In one embodiment, an external thread 223g is provided on the outer surface of the head 223. The external thread 223g may be provided from the front end 223a at least along a portion of the length of the front portion 223a1 of the head 223. In one embodiment, the external thread 223g is provided along the entire length of the front portion 223a1, and the groove 223 is provided at the termination position of the external thread 223g. The external thread 223g facilitates the implant 200 to penetrate the medullary cavity during surgical implantation. Since the external thread 223g makes close contact with the bone to achieve a tight fit, the length of the external thread 223g can be extended as much as possible. Correspondingly, the position of the groove 223c can be closer to the rear end 223b than the groove 123c of the head 123 of the implant 100.

[0072] In one embodiment, the front portion 223a1 of the head 223 may be solid, and the rear portion 223b1 may be hollow. The rear portion 223b1 of the head 223 is provided with a hole 223d, which extends inward from the rear surface 223f of the head 223, extends along at least a portion of the length of the rear portion 223b1, and terminates at an end face 223d1. The shape of the hole 223d may be adapted to the shape of the first threaded portion 221g of the guide rod 221. In one embodiment, the hole 223d is cylindrical. The diameter of the hole 223d is adapted to the diameter of the first threaded portion 221g. The hole 223d is provided with an internal thread 223e, which is complementary to the first thread 221c of the guide rod 221.

[0073] In one embodiment, the internal thread 223e of the head 223 is used to mate with at least a portion of the first thread 221c (e.g., the front portion) of the guide rod 221, and the front surface of the guide rod 221 is in contact with the end face 223d1. Other structures connecting the head 223 to the guide rod 221 also fall within the scope of this application.

[0074] In one embodiment, the head 223 may be made of a biocompatible material, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the head 223 is made of titanium.

[0075] Figure 5d This image shows a multi-view perspective view of the anterior connector 225 of the implant 200 according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the structure and function of the anterior connector 225 are similar to those of the anterior connector 125. Details of the anterior connector 225 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 3c For the sake of brevity, this will not be repeated here. In one embodiment, the front end of the front connector 225 is provided with a flat surface 225a, the rear end of the front connector 225 is provided with a curved surface 225b, and the inner circumference of the front connector 225 is provided with an internal thread 225c. The flat surface 225a, the curved surface 225b, and the internal thread 225c are structurally and functionally similar to the flat surface 125a, the curved surface 125b, and the internal thread 125c of the front connector 125, respectively. The front connector 225 can be connected to the head 223 and the guide rod 221 in the manner described above regarding the front connector 125.

[0076] The plurality of movable balls 227 can be axially sleeved on the surface 221e of the guide rod 221. Figure 5e and Figure 5f A multi-view isometric view of one of the plurality of movable balls 227 according to several embodiments is shown. The movable ball 227 is generally spherical, with flat surfaces at its rear and front ends. A hole 227a is provided at the center of the movable ball 227, extending along an axis corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the guide rod 221, defining an inner surface 227a1 and a curved surface 227b. The hole 227a is a cylindrical through-hole. The diameter of the hole 227a is adapted to the diameter of the surface 221e of the guide rod 221.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the front end and rear end of the movable ball 227 are respectively provided with recesses 227c3. Each recess 227c3 defines an arcuate profile 227c4. The recesses 227c3 and the arcuate profile 227c4 form a more continuous mating surface, avoiding sharp edges.

[0078] In one embodiment, each movable ball 227 may include a plurality of first grooves 227c1 and a plurality of second grooves 227c2, wherein the plurality of first grooves 227c1 are disposed on the curved surface 227b at the front end of the movable ball 227, and the plurality of second grooves 227c2 are disposed on the curved surface 227b at the rear end of the movable ball 227. A gap is formed between the plane of the front end and the plane of the rear end of the movable ball 227 between the plurality of first grooves 227c1 and the plurality of second grooves 227c2. The gap facilitates smooth rotation of the movable ball 227 and the connecting member 229. The plurality of first grooves 227c1 and the plurality of second grooves 227c2 are symmetrically disposed on the sides of the movable ball 227 with respect to the hole 227a (e.g., on opposite sides of the recess 227c3). The plurality of first grooves 227c1 and the plurality of second grooves 227c2 may have the same size. The plurality of first slots 227c1 and the plurality of second slots 227c2 may be arranged in the same direction (for example, such as...). Figure 5e (As shown, it may be arranged horizontally or vertically, or different. For example, such as...) Figure 5f As shown, the plurality of first grooves 227c1 may be arranged horizontally, and the plurality of second grooves 227c2 may be arranged vertically. The directional difference between the plurality of first grooves 227c1 and the plurality of second grooves 227c2 provides more degrees of freedom for each movable ball 227, which helps to pivot the implant 200 at any of the movable balls 227 according to the bone contour. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of first grooves 227c1 and the plurality of second grooves 227c2 each have two grooves. It should be understood that the plurality of first grooves 227c1 and the plurality of second grooves 227c2 may include more than two grooves.

[0079] In one embodiment, the plurality of movable balls 227 pass through the rear end 221b of the guide rod 221 and are fitted onto the surface 221e of the guide rod 221. Each of the movable balls 227 (except for the first and last of the plurality of movable balls 227, i.e., movable ball 227d and movable ball 227n) is connected to two of the connecting members 229. The front end of the first movable ball 227d is connected to the front connecting member 225. The rear end of the last movable ball 227n is connected to the rear connecting member 231.

[0080] In one embodiment, the plurality of movable balls 227 may be made of biocompatible materials, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of movable balls 227 are made of titanium.

[0081] The plurality of connecting members 229 and the plurality of movable balls 227 are alternately axially sleeved on the surface 221e of the guide rod 221. Figure 5g and Figure 5h This diagram illustrates a multi-view isometric view of one of a plurality of connectors 229 according to one embodiment. The shape of each connector 229 includes, but is not limited to, cylindrical, circular, and annular shapes. In one exemplary embodiment, each connector 229 is cylindrical. Each connector 229 has a front arcuate profile 229a at its front end, a rear arcuate profile 229b at its rear end, and an outer surface 229d1 with a central hole 229c defining an inner surface 229d.

[0082] In one embodiment, the connecting member 229 may further include a plurality of first teeth 229e1 and a plurality of second teeth 229e2. The plurality of second teeth 229e2 are disposed on the front arcuate contour 229a, and the plurality of first teeth 229e1 are disposed on the rear arcuate contour 229b. The plurality of first teeth 229e1 and the plurality of second teeth 229e2 are arranged laterally symmetrically with respect to the hole 229c. Each of the plurality of first teeth 229e1 is used to engage with the corresponding first groove 227c1 in the movable ball 227 and to move linearly therein. Similarly, each of the plurality of second teeth 229e2 is used to engage with the corresponding second groove 227c2 in the movable ball 227 and to move linearly therein. The direction of each of the plurality of first teeth 229e1 and the direction of each of the plurality of second teeth 229e2 are respectively consistent with the direction of the corresponding first groove 227c1 and the direction of the corresponding second groove 227c2. For example, the plurality of first teeth 229e1 and the plurality of second teeth 229e2 can be as follows: Figure 5g The examples shown have the same direction (e.g., along the vertical direction) or have different directions. For example, as Figure 5h As shown, the plurality of second teeth 229e2 are vertically aligned, while the plurality of first teeth 229e1 are horizontally aligned. The number of first teeth 229e1 and second teeth 229e2 are respectively matched with the number of first slots 227c1 and second slots 227c2.

[0083] Furthermore, the diameter of the hole 229c is adapted to the diameter of the surface 221e of the guide rod 221. The inner surface 229d of the hole 229c fits against the surface 221e of the guide rod 221. Each connector 229 is connected to two of the plurality of movable balls 227. For example, the front arcuate profile 229a of each connector 229 is movably engaged with the rear part of the curved surface 227b of the front movable ball 227, which is located at the front end of the connector 229. At this time, each of the plurality of second teeth 229e2 engages with the second groove 227c2 corresponding to the front movable ball 227. Similarly, the rear arc-shaped profile 229b of the connector 229 is in movable engagement with the front part of the curved surface 227b of the rear movable ball 227. The rear movable ball 227 is disposed at the rear end of the connector 229, and each of the plurality of first teeth 229e1 engages with the first groove 227c1 corresponding to the rear movable ball 227.

[0084] In one embodiment, the plurality of second connectors 229 may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of second connectors 229 are made of titanium.

[0085] like Figure 5 As shown, the movable ball 227 and the connecting member 229 can be alternately arranged on the guide rod 221. Each pair of movable balls 227 and connecting members 229 can be engaged in a gear mechanism through the first groove 227c1, the second groove 227c2, and the corresponding first tooth 229e1 and the corresponding second tooth 229e2. With the help of the gear mechanism, the circumferential motion generated by any component of the sub-assembly 220 due to the bending path can be transmitted to subsequent components, which helps to achieve better load distribution along the implant 200.

[0086] Furthermore, the first movable ball 127d is sleeved onto the guide rod 221 from the rear end 221b of the guide rod 221. The front portion of the curved surface 227b of the first movable ball 127d is movably engaged with the curved surface 225b of the front connecting member 225. The inner surface 127a1 of the first movable ball 127d is in contact with the surface 221e of the guide rod 221.

[0087] The connecting member 229e is sleeved onto the guide rod 221 from the rear end 221b of the guide rod 221. The front arcuate profile 229a of the connecting member 229 is movably engaged with the rear portion of the curved surface 227b of the first movable ball 227d. Furthermore, the second tooth 229e2 on the front arcuate profile 229a is adapted to the corresponding second groove 227c2 of the first movable ball 227d. The inner surface 229d of the hole 229c is in contact with the surface 221e of the guide rod 221.

[0088] The movable ball 227e is sleeved onto the guide rod 221 from the rear end 221b. The front portion of the curved surface 227b of the movable ball 227e movably engages with the rear arcuate profile 229b of the connecting member 229e. Furthermore, the first groove 227c1 of the first movable ball 227d engages with the corresponding first tooth 229e1 in the connecting member 229e. The inner surface 227a1 of the movable ball 227e fits against the surface 221e of the guide rod 221. Moreover, the connecting members 229f-229n are alternately connected to the movable balls 227e-227n in the manner described above.

[0089] The last movable ball 227n is fitted onto the guide rod 221 from the rear end 221b of the guide rod 221. The front portion of the curved surface 227b of the last movable ball 227n movably engages with the rear arc-shaped profile 229b of the connecting member 229n. Furthermore, the first tooth 229e1 on the rear arc-shaped profile 229b of the connecting member 229n is adapted to the corresponding first groove 227c1 in the last movable ball 227n. The inner surface 227a1 of the movable ball 227m is in contact with the surface 221e.

[0090] Although the implant 200 described in the illustrated embodiment includes eleven movable balls 227d-227n and ten connectors 229e-229n, it should be understood that any number of the movable balls 227 and connectors 229 can be used without departing from the scope of protection of this application. The number of the movable balls 227 and connectors 229 can be selected based on the required length of the implant 200 according to the patient's needs.

[0091] Figure 5iThis illustration shows a multi-view perspective view of the rear connector 231 of the implant 200 according to one embodiment. The shape of the rear connector 231 includes, but is not limited to, cylindrical, circular, and annular shapes. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear connector 231 is cylindrical and has a hole 231c and an outer surface 231e. The hole 231c may have an inner surface 231c1 and a stepped structure 231p. The stepped structure 231p extends from the rear end of the rear connector 231 toward the front end of the rear connector 231, extending a portion of the length of the rear connector 231. The stepped structure 231p may include a first surface 231b and a second surface 231d. The first surface 231b may be a straight surface parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rear connector 231, and the second surface 231d may be inclined inward. The front curved surface 231a is provided at the front end of the rear connector 231, and the rear surface 231h is provided at the rear end of the rear connector 231. Furthermore, the rear connector 231 may have a plurality of grooves 231g provided at the rear end face 231h, the grooves 231g extending along the length direction of the rear connector 231. In one embodiment, the plurality of grooves 231g are used to clamp the rear connector 231 when connecting the at least one occluder 233 (described below). The first face 231b guides the at least one occluder during the assembly of the implant 200 (described below).

[0092] In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the rear connector 231 is larger than the diameter of the guide rod 221. The rear connector 231 passes through the rear end 221b of the guide rod 221. Figure 1 As shown, the outer surface 231e is interference-fitted and conforms to the inner surface (not shown) of the guide sheath 210. The front curved surface 231a of the rear connector 231 is movably fitted to the rear of the curved surface 227b of the last movable ball 227 (i.e., the last movable ball 227f in the described embodiment). Furthermore, as... Figure 1 As shown, the rear connector 231 can be sleeved on the second thread 221d of the guide rod 221, so that there is a gap between the inner surface 231c1 of the hole 231c and the second thread 221d.

[0093] In one embodiment, the rear connector 231 may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy, 316 stainless steel, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear connector 231 is made of titanium.

[0094] At least one occluding element of the implant 200 is connected to the second threaded portion 221k of the rear connector 231 and the guide rod 221, holding the plurality of movable balls 227 and the plurality of connectors 229 on the guide rod 121. See also Figure 5j , Figure 5j A multi-view isometric view of the occlusion member 233 according to one embodiment is shown. It should be understood that in different embodiments, the implant 100 may use the rear connector 231 and the occlusion member 233 instead of the rear connector 131, the first occlusion member 133, and the second occlusion member 135; similarly, in different embodiments, the implant 200 may use the rear connector 131, the first occlusion member 133, and the second occlusion member 135 instead of the rear connector 231 and the occlusion member 233. The occlusion member 233 is connected to the rear end 221b of the guide rod 221 and the rear connector 231, holding the plurality of connectors 229 and the plurality of movable balls 227 on the guide rod 221 to form the sub-assembly 220. In one embodiment, the cylindrical portion 233a is provided at the front end of the occlusion member 233, and the disc portion 233b is provided at the rear end of the occlusion member 233. Other equivalent shapes of the sealing element 233 also fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0095] In one embodiment, the cylindrical portion 233a includes a hole 233a3 and an outer surface 233a2. The hole 233a3 is provided with an internal thread 233a1, which is used to connect with the rear portion of the second thread 221d of the guide rod 221. The disc portion 233b has a rear surface 233b1, which includes a groove having a surface 233b2 and an extension surface 233b3. The surface 233b2 can be polygonal, circular, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the surface 233b2 is hexagonal. The extension surface 233b3 is the front surface of the disc portion 233b of the sealing member 233. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the internal thread 233a1 of the sealing member 233 is adapted to the diameter of the second thread portion 221k of the guide rod 221. The sealing member 233 is screwed onto the rear end 221b of the guide rod 221 to fix the plurality of connecting members 229, the rear connecting member 231 and the plurality of movable balls 227.

[0096] In one embodiment, the occluder 233 engages with the rear connector 231 and the guide rod 221 in such a manner that the occluder 233 is inserted into the rear connector 231 from its rear end. A first surface 231b guides the outer surface 233a2 of the cylindrical portion 233a of the occluder 233. A groove in the occluder 233 is used to clamp the occluder 233 when it is connected to the rear connector 231. A surgical instrument (not shown) is positioned at the surface 233b2 to rotate the occluder 233, thereby connecting it to the guide rod 221 and the rear connector 231. For example, the surgical instrument is rotated until the internal thread 233a1 of the occluder 233 engages with the rear portion of the second thread 221d of the guide rod 221, the outer surface 233a2 of the cylindrical portion 233a fits against the inner surface 231c1 of the hole 231c of the rear connector 231, and the extension surface 233b3 of the disc portion 233b of the occluder 233 fits against the second surface 231d of the stepped structure 231p of the rear connector 231. Furthermore, the rear surface 233b1 of the occluder 233 is flush with the rear end face 231h of the rear connector 231, which in turn is flush with the rear surface (not shown) of the guide sheath 210. The surgical instrument includes, but is not limited to, an internal hex wrench, a screwdriver (e.g., a simple hex screwdriver), and a smart device (e.g., a torque-limiting wrench).

[0097] In one embodiment, the assembly method of the implant 200 is similar to the assembly method 400 of the implant 100, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here. The implant 200 can be implanted using similar steps as those related to the implant 100. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should understand that one or more components of the implant 200 can be replaced by corresponding components of the implant 100, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of protection of this application.

[0098] The scope of protection of this application is limited only by the appended patent claims. More generally, those skilled in the art will understand that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are examples, and actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations depend on the specific application scenario to which the teachings of this application are applied.

Claims

1. An implant (100, 200) characterized in that, The implants (100, 200) include: a. Guide rods (121, 221), wherein the guide rods (121, 221) include: i. A first threaded portion (121g, 221g), wherein the first threaded portion (121g, 221g) is disposed at the front end (121a, 221a) of the guide rod (121, 221) and has a first thread (121c, 221c). ii. A second threaded portion (121k, 221k), wherein the second threaded portion (121k, 221k) is provided at the rear end (121b, 221b) of the guide rod (121, 221) and has a second thread (121d, 221d). b. A head (123, 223) having holes (123d, 223d) with internal threads (123e, 223e) for engaging with at least a portion of the first threads (121c, 221c) on the guide rod (121, 221); c. A plurality of movable spheres (127, 227), each of the movable spheres (127, 227) being provided with a hole (127a, 227a) and a curved surface (127b, 227b); and d. A plurality of connectors (129, 229), each of the connectors (129, 229) being provided with a hole (129c, 229c), an inner surface (129d, 229d), a front arcuate profile (129a, 229a) and a rear arcuate profile (129b, 229b); e. Wherein, the plurality of movable balls (127, 227) and the plurality of connecting parts (129, 229) are alternately arranged on the guide rod (121, 221).

2. Implant (100, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that The guide rods (121, 221) include non-threaded portions (121h, 221h), which are disposed between the first threaded portion (121g, 221g) and the second threaded portion (121k, 221k) of the guide rods (121, 221), and the non-threaded portions (121h, 221h) have surfaces (121e, 221e); wherein, a plurality of movable balls (127, 227) and a plurality of connecting members (129, 229) are alternately disposed on the non-threaded portions (121h, 221h) of the guide rods (121, 221).

3. Implant (100, 200) according to claim 2, characterized in that The holes (127a, 227a) of each of the movable balls (127, 227) define inner surfaces (127a1, 227a1) for engaging with the surfaces (121e, 221e) of the guide rods (121, 221); the holes (129c, 229c) of each of the connecting members (129, 229) define inner surfaces (129d, 229d) for engaging with the surfaces (121e, 221e) of the guide rods (121, 221).

4. Implant (100, 200) according to claim 2, characterized in that The guide rod (221) includes a plurality of support coils (221e1), which are wound around the non-threaded portion (221h) of the guide rod (221).

5. Implant (100, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that The head (223) includes an external thread (223g) disposed on the outer surface of the head (223).

6. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that, a. The front arcuate profile (129a, 229a) of each of the connectors (129, 229) is used to movably engage with the rear of the curved surface (127b, 227b) of the front movable ball (127, 227) disposed at the front end of the connector (129, 229); b. The rear arcuate profile (129b, 229b) of each of the connectors (129, 229) is used to movably engage with the front of the curved surface (127b, 227b) of the rear movable ball (127, 227) located at the rear end of the connector (129, 229).

7. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that, a. Each of the said active balls (227) includes: i. A plurality of first grooves (227c1), the first grooves (227c1) being disposed at the front end of the movable ball (227); ii. A plurality of second slots (227c2), the second slots (227c2) being disposed at the rear end of the movable ball (227); b. Each of the aforementioned couplings (229) includes: i. A plurality of first teeth (229e1), the first teeth (229e1) being disposed on the rear arc-shaped profile (229b), each of the first teeth (229e1) being used to engage with the corresponding first groove (227c1) in the rear movable ball (227) disposed at the rear end of the connector (229); ii. A plurality of second teeth (229e2), the second teeth (229e2) being disposed on the front arcuate profile (229a), each of the second teeth (229e2) being used to engage with the corresponding second groove (227c2) in the front movable ball (227) disposed at the front end of the connector (229).

8. Implant (100, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that The implant (100, 200) includes a front connector (125, 225) connected to the first threaded portion (121g, 221g) of the guide rod (121, 221); the front connector (125, 225) includes: a. Planes (125a, 225a), said planes (125a, 225a) are disposed at the front end of the front connector (125, 225) for fitting against the rear surfaces (123f, 223f) of the head (123, 223); b. Curved surfaces (125b, 225b), wherein the curved surfaces (125b, 225b) are disposed at the rear end of the front connector (125, 225) and are used to movably engage with the front part of the curved surfaces (127b, 227b) of the first movable ball (127c, 227d) among the plurality of movable balls (127, 227); c. Internal threads (125c, 225c), the internal threads (125c, 225c) are provided on the inner circumference of the front connector (125, 225) for engaging with the rear part of the first thread (121c, 221c) of the first threaded portion (121g, 221g) of the guide rod (121, 221).

9. Implant (100, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that The implants (100, 200) include: a. A rear connector (131, 231), wherein the rear connector (131, 231) is disposed at the rear end of the last movable ball (127f, 227n) among the plurality of movable balls (127, 227); the rear connector (131, 231) includes a front curved surface (131a, 231a), wherein the front curved surface (131a, 231a) is disposed at the front end of the rear connector (131, 231) and is used to movably engage with the rear part of the curved surface (127b, 227b) of the last movable ball (127f, 227n); b. At least one sealing element connected to the second threaded portion (121k, 221k) of the rear connector (131, 231) and the guide rod (121, 221), holding the plurality of movable balls (127, 227) and the plurality of connectors (129, 229) on the guide rod (121, 221).

10. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The at least one sealing element includes: a. A first sealing element (133), the first sealing element (133) comprising: i. A cylindrical portion (133a) having a hole (133a3) and an outer surface (133a2), the hole (133a3) having an internal thread (133a1) for engaging with the rear portion of the second thread (121d) of the guide rod (121); at least two teeth of the second thread (121d) extending from the hole (133a3) toward the rear end of the first sealing member (133); and ii. A disk portion (133b) having a rear surface (133b1) including a groove having a surface (133b2) and an extension surface (133b3). b. A second sealing element (135), the second sealing element (135) comprising: i. A cylindrical portion (135a) having a hole (135a3) and an outer surface (135a2), the hole (135a3) having an internal thread (135a1) for connecting with at least two teeth of the second thread (121d); ii. A disk portion (135b) having a rear surface (133b1) including a groove having a face (133b2) and an extension face (133b3).

11. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The at least one sealing element includes: c. A sealing element (233), said sealing element (233) comprising: i. A cylindrical portion (233a) having a hole (233a3) and an outer surface (233a2), the hole (233a3) having an internal thread (233a1) for connection with the rear portion of the second thread (221d) of the guide rod (221); and ii. A disk portion (233b) having a rear surface (233b1) including a groove having a face (233b2) and an extension face (233b3).

12. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The implant (100, 200) includes a guide sheath (110, 210) connected to the head (123, 223); the guide sheath (110, 210) has a cavity extending along its length for accommodating at least the plurality of movable balls (127, 227) and the plurality of connecting members (129, 229).

13. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The cavity of the guide sheath (110, 210) is used to accommodate the front connector (125, 225), the plurality of movable balls (127, 227), the plurality of connectors (129, 229), the rear connector (131, 231) and the at least one sealing member.

14. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 12, characterized in that, a. The guide sheath (110, 210) includes a front opening (110f) and a locking member (110d), the front opening (110f) being disposed at the front end (110a) of the guide sheath (110, 210), and the locking member (110d) being disposed around the front opening (110f); and b. The head (123) has grooves (123c, 223c) arranged circumferentially along the outer surface of the head (123, 223), and the grooves (123c, 223c) divide the head (123, 223) into a rear part (123b1, 223b1) located in the cavity of the guide sheath (110, 210) and a front part (123a1, 223a1) extending out of the front opening (110f); the grooves (123c, 223c) are used to engage with the locking member (110d) of the guide sheath (110, 210) to lock the head (123, 223) and the guide sheath (110, 210).

15. The implant (100, 200) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer surface (110e) of the guide sheath (110, 210) is provided with a plurality of holes (110c).

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