Cruciate ligament replacing artificial knee

Abstract

To provide prostheses that replicate the function provided by both ACL and PCL, in order to provide a more anatomically correct TKR.SOLUTION: A knee joint prosthesis is capable of moving between an extended position and a flexion position. The knee joint prosthesis includes a femoral component that is configured to be mounted to a femur, a tibial component that is configured to be mounted to a tibia, a post fixedly connected to one of the femoral component and the tibial component, and a cam recess defined on the other of the femoral component and the tibial component that is configured to be engaged by the post in either the extended position or the flexion position of the knee joint prosthesis. The knee joint prosthesis may also include an artificial ligament that extends between the femoral component and the tibial component. The post and the ligament mimic one of the ACL and PCL.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an artificial knee prosthesis used for total knee replacement (TKR), and more particularly to a knee prosthesis having an artificial anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and / or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). [Background technology]

[0002] As described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0252173 to Garino, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, for all applications, a knee prosthesis generally includes three main components: a femoral component attached to the distal end of the femur (FIGS. 1A and 1B), a tibial component implanted on the proximal end of the tibia (FIGS. 2A and 2B), and an articular insert assembled onto the tibial component to provide a friction surface for the femoral component (FIGS. 3A and 3B). The components are designed to simulate the articulation and associated mechanics of the human knee throughout the knee's range of motion. The components generally come in a variety of shapes with varying dimensions (identified as dimensions AH and JT in FIGS. 1A-3B), thus allowing the physician to select the optimal combination of components depending on the patient's specific anatomy. The size and shape of the knee depend on a variety of factors, including the patient's age, sex, and size. Thus, a fairly wide inventory of components is generally available to allow the prosthetic knee to be tailored to the patient.

[0003] During a typical knee reconstruction for TKR, the ACL is removed in the vast majority of cases and, depending on the TKR design selected, the patient's PCL is either preserved or replaced with some mechanism to substitute for the lost function of the PCL. Even when the PCL is preserved, in many cases a portion of the PCL must be severed or partially severed during surgery to aid in balancing the knee replacement. If the PCL is completely removed, it is replaced by a post and cam mechanism.

[0004] The TKR generally includes a femoral component 10, a tibial component 16, and an articular insert 22 that resides on the upper mounting portion 20 of the tibial component 16 to interact with the femoral component 10. With reference to Figures 1A, 1B, 3A, and 3B, an illustration of a typical design of a post and cam mechanism is provided. The articular insert 22 includes an extension portion 24 that projects into the opening 12 of the femoral component 10. A box 11 having an upwardly projecting wall is formed on the inner side of the femoral component 10 and includes an inner region that intersects with the opening 12. The extension portion 24 includes a posterior surface 25 that is intended to be in frictional contact with the posterior surface 14 of the opening 12 when the joint is flexed. The resistance generated when the extension portion 24 bears against the posterior surface 14 of the opening 12 in the femoral component 10 is intended to simulate the resistance that would be generated by a healthy posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).

[0005] Cam and post mechanisms have been produced that partially replace the function of the ACL by creating a camming surface between the anterior surface of the extension 24 and the anterior surface of the opening 12. However, this solution only provides a partial replacement for the ACL because the anterior side of the extension 24 can only contact the anterior side of the opening at most between 0-20 degrees of flexion.

[0006] Another solution is to connect the femoral and tibial components with a cable-like material, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,935,133, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. However, this artificial material is typically only used to replace the PCL, and not the ACL.

[0007] The lack of an anatomically correct replacement can result in a TKR that is less functional than the original knee. This can cause difficulties during post-surgical physical therapy and limit the patient's ability or desire to participate in physical activities after therapy. Nearly all modern total knee replacements sacrifice the ACL or inadequately substitute the knee joint with an immature cam and post mechanism, leaving the reconstructed knee with kinematic function similar to that of an ACL-deficient knee. Thus, normal knee kinematic function remains elusive. Furthermore, the lack of proper interaction between the ACL and PCL, which together drive normal knee kinematics, keeps TKR reconstructions from creating a relatively normal knee for the patient.

[0008] Due to the complexity of knee joint mechanics and the difficulty patients have in adapting to a prosthetic knee after surgery, there is a need for an anatomically correct knee replacement system that more accurately simulates the restoring forces and support previously provided by the removed ligaments. In order to provide a more anatomically correct TKR, prosthetic embodiments that replicate the functions provided by both the ACL and PCL are desired.

[0009] 4, a healthy human knee is illustrated with loop 30 representing an exemplary artificial ACL / PCL ligament depicted over the location of the natural anatomical ACL and PCL. The section of loop 30 that constitutes the artificial PCL is bounded by points 26A and 26B. The section of loop 30 that constitutes the artificial ACL is bounded by points 28A and 28B.

[0010] 5, 6A and 6B illustrating an embodiment disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,993,333 to Garino, the connection points 26a, 26b, 28a and 28b of artificial material provided as ligament 44 and the length spanning between the connection points provided as the contour of artificial ligament 44 are configured to simulate the dimensions and attachment points of the ACL and PCL in the human knee illustrated in FIG 4. At least one length of artificial ligament can be provided to connect the femoral component 10 and the glenoid insert 22 of the TKR.

[0011] Although US Pat. No. 5,999,333 to Garino provides a solution to these complications, developments in this area are continually being sought to improve knee joint mechanics. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0252173 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Pat. No. 5,935,133 Summary of the Invention

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a knee joint prosthesis is capable of moving between an extension position and a flexion position. The knee joint prosthesis includes a femoral component configured to be assembled to a femur and a tibial component configured to be assembled to a tibia, the tibial component configured to be engaged with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis. A first post is fixedly connected to one of the femoral and tibial components, and a first cam recess is defined on the other of the femoral and tibial components, the first cam recess being configured to be engaged by the first post in either an extension or flexion position of the knee joint prosthesis. A second post is fixedly connected to one of the femoral and tibial components, and a second cam recess is defined on the other of the femoral and tibial components, the second cam recess being configured to be engaged by the second post in either an extension or flexion position of the knee joint prosthesis.

[0014] In another embodiment of the present invention, a knee joint prosthesis includes a femoral component configured to be assembled to the femur and a tibial component configured to be assembled to the tibia, the tibial component configured to be engaged with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis. A post is fixedly connected to one of the femoral and tibial components, and a cam recess is defined on the other of the femoral and tibial components and configured to be engaged by the first post in either an extension or flexion position of the knee joint prosthesis. An artificial ligament is fixedly connected to the femoral and tibial components to simulate either an anterior cruciate ligament or a posterior cruciate ligament. The post and ligament are oriented to intersect when viewed in a sagittal plane, a frontal plane, or both a sagittal plane and a frontal plane.

[0015] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a knee joint prosthesis includes a femoral component configured for assembly to the femur and a tibial component configured for assembly to the tibia, the tibial component configured to engage with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis, the femoral component and the tibial component being coupled together at least in part by a geared arrangement. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] The drawings are as follows: [Figure 1A] 1 is a side view of a femoral component for a knee prosthesis known to those skilled in the art; [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a bottom view of the femoral component of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] 1 is a top view of a tibial component for a knee prosthesis known to those skilled in the art; [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a side view of the tibial component of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] 1 is a top view of a joint insert for a knee joint prosthesis known to those skilled in the art; [Figure 3B] FIG. 3C is a front view of the articular insert of FIG. 3B assembled onto the base plate of the tibial component. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a lateral view of a knee joint illustrating the anatomical location of the ACL and PCL and the configuration of artificial materials intended to replace the ACL and PCL. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a side view of a femoral component, articular insert and artificial ligament for TKR according to the prior art. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6 is a top view of a cross section taken along line II in FIG. 5. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6 is a bottom view of a cross section taken along line II in FIG. 5. [Figure 7A] 1 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a knee prosthesis taken in a sagittal plane according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the knee prosthesis being shown in an extended position; FIG. [Figure 7B]7B is another view of the knee prosthesis of FIG. 7A, in which the knee prosthesis is shown in a flexed position. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane, with a post disposed on the femoral portion and a cam disposed on the tibial portion. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane, with one post and one cam located on each of the femoral and tibial portions. [Figure 10A] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis in a sagittal plane, with posts mimicking the ACL and PCL positioned on the tibial portion and engaging with cams on the femoral portion. [Figure 10B] 10B illustrates the knee prosthesis of FIG. 10A as viewed in the coronal plane. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane, with posts mimicking the ACL and PCL positioned on the femoral portion and engaging with cams on the tibial portion. [Figure 12] 1 depicts an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane in which a post mimicking the PCL is positioned on the tibial portion and engages with a cam on the femoral portion, and an artificial ligament mimicking the ACL is positioned between the tibial and femoral portions. [Figure 13] 1 depicts an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane in which a post mimicking the ACL is positioned on the tibial portion and engages a cam on the femoral portion, and an artificial ligament mimicking the PCL is positioned between the tibial and femoral portions. [Figure 14] 1 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane, with posts mimicking the ACL and PCL positioned on the femoral portion and engaging with cams on the femoral portion. [Figure 15A] 1 illustrates a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis in a sagittal plane, in which the tibial portion is connected to the femoral portion by a geared arrangement. The knee joint prosthesis is shown in an extended position. [Figure 15B]1 illustrates a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis in a sagittal plane, in which the tibial portion is connected to the femoral portion by a geared arrangement. The knee joint prosthesis is shown in a flexed position. [Figure 16A] FIG. 13 illustrates a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis in a sagittal plane, in which the tibial portion is coupled to the femoral portion by a geared arrangement configured to cause medial movement of the tibial portion to an extended position upon rotation. [Figure 16B] The knee joint is shown from the posterior side. [Figure 16C] The knee joint is shown from the anterior side. [Figure 17] 1 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane in which the tibial portion is connected to the femoral portion by a post and cam arrangement. [Figure 18] 1 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis viewed in the sagittal plane in which the tibial portion is connected to the femoral portion by a post and cam arrangement. [Figure 19] 13 is a plan view illustrating an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis in which the tibial portion is connected to the femoral portion by a pin and slot arrangement. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] The present invention provides various embodiments of knee joint prostheses, in which "A" represents anterior side or direction, "P" represents posterior side or direction, "M" represents medial side or direction, the articular insert represents lateral side or direction, "F" represents the femoral component, and "T" represents the tibial component (or the articular insert is part of the tibial component).

[0018] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional side elevational view of a knee joint prosthesis 100 in a sagittal plane according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, where the knee joint prosthesis 100 is shown in an extended position. Figure 7B is another view of the knee joint prosthesis 100 of Figure 7A, where the knee joint prosthesis 100 is shown in a flexed position. The knee joint prosthesis 100 has the ability to rotate between the extended position of Figure 7A and the flexed position of Figure 7B.

[0019] The prosthesis 100 generally includes a femoral component 102 and an articular insert 104 that is assembled to or forms part of the tibial component.

[0020] The femoral component 102 shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B may represent a femoral component having condyles (such as item 10) or a box (such as box 11) assembled to a femoral component. A recess 108 is formed at the lower end of the femoral component 102. The recess 108 is located between the condyles 106 along the medial-lateral direction. Where the recess 108 intersects with the exterior surface of the femoral component 102, an edge 111 is formed at the semicircular boundary of the recess 108. The recess 108 is located in the same approximate location as the opening 12 in the femoral component 10. However, unlike the opening 12, the recess 108 is blind and includes a smooth, rounded interior surface. Two cam surfaces 110a and 110b (individually or collectively referred to as cam surfaces 110) are formed at opposite ends of the interior surface of the recess 108. Each cam 110 is a smooth, rounded, concave surface. The radii of the cams 110 may be the same or different. The cams 110 are configured to interact with rounded posts 112a and 112b extending from the top surface of the joint insert 104.

[0021] The articular insert 104 is similar to the articular insert 22, with the main differences between them being described below. The articular insert 104 includes two posts 112a and 112b (individually or collectively referred to as post surfaces 112) extending from a bearing surface 113. The post 112a corresponds to the ACL, while the post 112b corresponds to the PCL. Each rounded post 112 terminates in a convexly rounded surface. The radius of each post 112 may be identical or substantially the same as the radius of each cam 110. The height and radius of the extensions of the posts 112 may be different (as shown) or the same to complement the geometry of the mating cam 110. According to this embodiment, the ACL post 112a has a greater height than the PCL post 112b. The posts 112 extend along respective axes Z that are perpendicular to the bearing surface 113. Alternatively, the post 112 may extend at an angle relative to axis Z. The post 112 of FIG. 7A, as well as all other posts described herein, may be integral with the glenoid insert 22 (or other component to which it is connected) as shown, or may be connected to the glenoid insert 22 using mechanical threads, bolts, friction, adhesives, cement, or any other means for assembling two components together known to those of skill in the art.

[0022] The articular insert 104 has the ability to rotate relative to the femoral component 102 between the extended position of FIG. 7A and the flexed position of FIG. 7B. In the extended position of the knee joint prosthesis 100, the condyles may rest on the bearing surface 113 of the articular insert 104, and the post 112 is positioned against its respective cam 110. As the femoral component 102 rotates relative to the articular insert 104 or vice versa, the post 112 rides along the surface of the cam 110 until the edge 111 of the recess 108 bears against the base of the posterior post 112. The ACL post 112a may bear on its cam 110a. Although not shown, the collateral ligaments (MCL and LCL) adjacent to the knee joint prosthesis 100 prevent the femoral component 102 from herniating from the articular insert 104.

[0023] The provision of two posts 112 and two cams 110 more closely mimics the arrangement of the PCL and ACL as compared to a conventional knee prosthesis having a single post and a single cam.

[0024] As mentioned above, the recess 108 may be formed in a separate insert that can be attached to the femoral component 102, similar to the box 11. A series of inserts having different recess geometries may be provided in a kit, thus allowing a medical professional to select an insert having a geometry that best suits a patient's particular anatomy.

[0025] 8 illustrates a knee joint prosthesis 118 in which the posts 122a and 122b are disposed on the femoral component 124 and the cam 128 is defined on a recess 130 disposed on an articular insert 132 of the tibial component. The knee joint prosthesis 118 is similar to the knee joint prosthesis 100, except that the locations of the posts and cams are interchanged. The operation of the knee joint prosthesis 118 is substantially similar to the operation of the knee joint prosthesis 100. Although not shown, the posts 122a and 122b may be formed in a separate insert that can be attached to the femoral component 124, similar to the box 11.

[0026] FIG. 9 illustrates a knee prosthesis 136. The knee prosthesis 136 is similar to the knee prosthesis 100, except that one post 138 and one cam recess 140 are disposed on the femoral component 142, and one post 144 and one cam recess 146 are disposed on the articular insert 148 of the tibial component. In the extended position shown in FIG. 9, the post 138 of the femoral component 142 is assembled with the cam recess 146 of the tibial articular insert 148, and the post 144 of the tibial articular insert 148 is assembled with the cam recess 140 of the femoral component 142. Although the post 138 is disposed anterior to the recess 140, it should be understood that the locations of the post 138 and recess 140 (along with the locations of the recess 146 and post 144) can be interchanged. The operation of the knee prosthesis 136 is substantially similar to the operation of the knee prosthesis 100 .

[0027] 10A and 10B depict an embodiment of a partial cross-sectional view of a knee joint prosthesis 150. The prosthesis 150 is similar to the prosthesis 100, and only the main differences between them will be described. In the knee joint prosthesis 150, posts 152a and 152b (collectively referred to as posts 152), which more closely mimic the PCL and ACL, respectively, are disposed on the articular insert 154 of the tibial part (or the tibial part itself) and engage with cams 156a and 156b (collectively referred to as cams 156), respectively, disposed on a recess 157 formed on the femoral component 158. The recess 157 extends upward from a bearing surface 155 of the prosthesis 150.

[0028] Specifically, post 152a, which extends from the lateral and posterior side of articular insert 154 to the medial and anterior side of femoral component 158, more closely mimics the location and geometry of the PCL. Post 152b, which extends from the medial and anterior side of articular insert 154 to the lateral and posterior side of femoral component 158, more closely mimics the location and geometry of the ACL. Posts 152a and 152b are oriented to intersect when viewed in the sagittal plane and in the coronal plane, although posts 152a and 152b may also be oriented to intersect only when viewed in one of these planes.

[0029] The angle "B" of each post 152 relative to the bearing surface 155 when viewed in the sagittal plane may vary from that shown and may be adjusted to approximate the exact angle of the ACL or PCL. Similarly, the angle "D" of each post 152 relative to the bearing surface 155 of the articular insert 154 when viewed in the coronal plane may vary from that shown and may be adjusted to approximate the exact angle of the ACL or PCL. It is noted that angles B and D may be exaggerated in the figures. The length and diameter of each post 152 may vary from that shown and may be adjusted to approximate that of the ACL or PCL. Each post 152 does not necessarily need to extend straight along the longitudinal axis as shown, but instead may be curved to approximate the curved shape of the ACL or PCL.

[0030] Each post 152 includes a convex rounded surface that rotatably and slidably engages a concave surface of cam 156 in recess 157. It is noted that posts 152 and cams 156 are in sliding contact but are physically separate from one another. Although not shown, recess 157 may be formed in a separate insert, such as box 11, that is removably attached to femoral component 158.

[0031] 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis 160 similar to the knee joint prosthesis 150, except that posts 159a and 159b are disposed on the femoral component 162 and engage with cams 161a and 161b, respectively, disposed on a recess 163 formed on the articular insert 165 of the tibial part (or the tibial part itself). It is noted that while the locations of the posts and cams are interchangeable, the locations and geometry of the posts 159a and 159b continue to mimic those of the ACL and PCL, respectively. Similarly, as with the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, each of the articular insert 165 and the femoral component 162 may include an angled post and a cam, although not shown.

[0032] FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis 180. The knee prosthesis 180 is similar to the knee prosthesis 150, with the main differences being described below. In the knee prosthesis 180, a post 182 that mimics the PCL is positioned on the tibial portion 184 and engages with a cam recess 186 on the femoral portion 188. An artificial ligament 190 that mimics the ACL is fixed to the tibial portion 184 and the femoral portion 188. The fixation is indicated in FIG. 12 by the lowercase letters "xxx."

[0033] The post 182 extends from the lateral and posterior side of the glenoid insert 184 to the medial and anterior side of the femoral component 188 to mimic the location of the PCL. The ligament 190 extends from the medial and anterior side of the glenoid insert 184 to the lateral and posterior side of the femoral component 188 to mimic the location of the ACL. The ligament 190, unlike the post 182, is fixedly connected to both the glenoid insert 184 and the femoral component 188. The post 182 and ligament 190 are oriented to intersect when viewed in the sagittal and coronal planes, although the post 182 and ligament 190 may be oriented to intersect only when viewed in one of these planes.

[0034] Figure 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis 192 that is similar to prosthesis 180 except that the locations of ligament 190' and post 182' are swapped so that ligament 190' represents the PCL and post 182' represents the ACL. As an alternative to Figures 12 and 13, post 182 can be eliminated entirely if the patient's natural ACL or PCL is to be preserved in a partial knee replacement.

[0035] The ligaments shown herein are formed from artificial materials, preferably synthetic fibers or yarns, to replace the ACL or PCL, such that the artificial material is configured in a manner similar to the orientation and location of the ACL and PCL, respectively, in a normal knee. Specifically, the configuration is such that the origin and insertion points of the artificial material in the TKR are similar to the origin and insertion points of the ACL and PCL in a normal knee.

[0036] FIG. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis 200 that is similar to the knee prosthesis 150, except that the free end of the PCL post 202 includes a helical protrusion 204, which may be a mechanical thread. A cam 206 in the femoral component that receives the helical protrusion 204 includes a helical recess 208. The helical recess 208 interacts with the helical protrusion 204 to induce a slight rotation about axis Y as the knee prosthesis 200 moves between the extension and flexion positions. The slight rotation mimics the slight rotation felt in a real knee joint when fully extended. The helical surfaces 204 and 208 may alternatively be provided in the form of wedged, angled, or beveled surfaces.

[0037] The term "artificial" only means that it is not the original anatomical ACL or PCL ligament in its original form before TKR, and should not be interpreted as a limitation to the use of only synthetic materials. Thus, artificial ligaments can include "natural" materials, such as materials created from biologically created materials, and / or can include hybrids of synthetic and natural materials. Other exemplary materials can include woven polyethylene variations similar to the material previously marketed as Secure Strand® cable, a braided ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) cable used for surgical fixation in posterior spinal reconstruction, the material currently marketed as Super Cables® (Kinamed, Inc., Camarillo, CA) made from UHMWPE and Nylon 6 / 6.6, Gore-tex® (PTFE fiber manufactured by WL Gore and Associates, Inc. Newark, DE), carbon fiber, or other similar woven materials.

[0038] According to various embodiments of the present invention, artificial material, for example in the form of an artificial ligament, can be incorporated into the TKR at the time of surgery, or the TKR can be preassembled with the artificial material prior to surgery. Various methods and devices for connecting ligaments to the tibial and femoral components are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0252173 to Garino. As described in this reference, locking mechanisms for the ends of the artificial ligament are not limited to any particular configuration and can include spherical retainers, metal clips, hooks, loops, claw-shaped fasteners, and the like.

[0039] In consideration of the above-described embodiments, it should be recognized that the posts, cams and ligaments can be connected to different components in different locations, and therefore the above-described embodiments should not be considered limiting.

[0040] Figures 15A and 15B depict side elevational views of an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis 300 as viewed in the sagittal plane, in which the tibial portion 302 is coupled to the femoral portion 304 by a rack-and-pinion type geared arrangement. It should be understood that the portion of the knee joint prosthesis 300 shown in Figures 15A and 15B does not represent the entire knee joint prosthesis. Rather, the portion of the knee joint prosthesis 300 shown in Figures 15A and 15B represents the portions of the tibial portion 302 and the femoral portion 304 that contact each other within the area of ​​a box (such as box 11). The knee joint prosthesis 300 is shown in an extended position in Figure 15A and in a flexed position in Figure 15B. Teeth 306 on the tibial portion 302 mesh with teeth 308 on the femoral portion 304 such that rotation of the tibial portion 302 causes rotation of the femoral portion 304 and vice versa.

[0041] 16A-16C depict an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis 400 in which a tibial portion 402 is coupled to a femoral portion 404 by a geared arrangement. The knee joint prosthesis 400 is substantially similar to the knee joint prosthesis 300, with the main differences between these embodiments being described below.

[0042] The tibial portion 402 includes a rounded convex exterior surface on which the teeth 406 are disposed. The convex exterior surface includes a posterior segment 406a having a simple curvilinear path that follows a circular arc and an anterior segment 406b that follows a helical path. The helical path extends medially when viewed in an anterior direction. The teeth similarly follow the trajectory of the helical path of the anterior segment 406b. The posterior segment 406a intersects with the anterior segment 406b in stages.

[0043] In a similar manner, the femoral portion 404 includes a convex exterior surface on which the teeth 408 are disposed. The convex exterior surface includes a posterior segment 408a having a simple curvilinear path that follows a circular arc and an anterior segment 408b that follows a helical path. The helical path extends medially when viewed in an anterior direction. It should be understood that the teeth similarly follow the trajectory of the helical path of the anterior segment 408b. The posterior segment 408a intersects with the anterior segment 406b in stages.

[0044] Although the rear segment 408a and the front segment 408b are both shown and described as following a helical trajectory, it is possible that only one of these segments follows a helical trajectory.

[0045] The teeth 406 on the tibial portion 402 mesh with the teeth 408 on the femoral portion 404, such that rotation of the tibial portion 402 causes rotation of the femoral portion 404, and vice versa. Similarly, as the tibial portion 402 rotates anteriorly into an extended position, the tibial portion 402 moves medially as well. The slight medial rotation of the tibial portion 402 mimics the slight rotation felt in an actual knee joint when in full extension. The medial rotation is due to the helical geometry of the mating anterior portions 406b and 408b.

[0046] 17 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a knee joint prosthesis 500 as viewed in the sagittal plane, in which the tibial portion is connected to the femoral portion by a post 502 and cam 504 arrangement. The knee joint prosthesis 500 is substantially similar to the knee joint prosthesis 300, except that the teeth 306 and 308 are replaced by the post 502 and cam 504, respectively. It should be understood that the teeth 406 and 408 of the knee joint prosthesis 300 may be similarly replaced by a post cam arrangement such as the post cam arrangement of the knee joint prosthesis 500.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 18, the location of posts 506 and cams 508 may be interchanged without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 19 is a plan view illustrating an alternative embodiment of a knee prosthesis 600 in which a tibial portion T is coupled to a femoral portion F by an arrangement of pins 602 and slots 604. The knee prosthesis 600 is shown in a flexed position in Figure 19. As with the other embodiments, the portion of the knee prosthesis 600 shown in Figure 19 represents only the portions of the tibial portion T and the femoral portion F that contact each other within the area of ​​a box (such as box 11) rather than the entire knee prosthesis.

[0049] According to this embodiment, the pin 602 is located on the femoral portion F and the slot 604 is located on the tibial component T, although it is contemplated that the reverse may be true. The pin 602 extends vertically into the depth of the slot 604. In operation, the pin 602 travels along the length of the slot 604. The slot 604 curves in a medial direction when viewed in an anterior direction.

[0050] During movement, as the tibial portion T rotates anteriorly into an extended position and the pin 602 advances along the length of the slot 604, the tibial portion T also rotates medially. The slight rotation of the tibial portion T in the medial direction mimics the slight rotation felt in an actual knee joint when in full extension. The medial movement is due to the curvature of the slot 604.

[0051] The components of the knee prosthesis may be made of the same or similar materials. In general, however, all materials are preferably inert, not prone to causing infection, and otherwise safe, approved for use as surgical implants. Exemplary materials include polyethylene, surgically approved metal alloys, surgically approved ceramic materials, or combinations thereof. Any of the various embodiments or portions thereof of the present invention may be manufactured using any of the well-known materials in the field of surgical implants.

[0052] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such variations which come within the spirit and scope of the invention. The present disclosure also includes the following aspects. [Aspect 1] 1. A knee joint prosthesis configured to move between an extension position and a flexion position, comprising: a femoral component configured for assembly to the femur; a tibial component configured for assembly to a tibia and engagement with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis; a first post fixedly coupled to one of the femoral component and the tibial component, and a first cam recess defined on the other of the femoral component and the tibial component configured to engage the first post in either the extension position or the flexion position of the knee prosthesis; a second post fixedly connected to one of the femoral and tibial components, and a second cam recess defined on the other of the femoral and tibial components and configured to engage the second post in either the extension or the flexion position of the knee prosthesis; Knee joint prosthesis including. [Aspect 2] 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the first post is fixedly connected to the femoral component and the second post is fixedly connected to the femoral component. [Aspect 3] 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the first post is fixedly connected to the tibial component and the second post is fixedly connected to the tibial component. Aspect 4 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the first post is fixedly connected to the tibial component and the second post is fixedly connected to the femoral component. Aspect 5 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the first post is fixedly connected to the femoral component and the second post is fixedly connected to the tibial component. Aspect 6 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the tibial component includes an articular insert. Aspect 7 2. The knee joint prosthesis of embodiment 1, wherein each post includes a rounded convex surface and each cam recess is a rounded concave surface. Aspect 8 2. The knee joint prosthesis of embodiment 1, wherein each post is slidingly engaged with and decoupled from a respective cam recess. Aspect 9 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein either the post or the cam recess forms part of a removable insert configured to be coupled to either the femoral component or the tibial component. Aspect 10 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the first post and the second post are oriented to intersect when viewed in a sagittal plane, a frontal plane, or both the sagittal plane and the frontal plane. Aspect 11 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the femoral component and the tibial component contact each other at a bearing surface and the post extends away from the bearing surface. Aspect 12 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein at least one of the posts and one of the cams include a helical surface to cause rotation of the knee joint prosthesis as the knee joint prosthesis moves between flexed and extended positions. Aspect 13 1. A knee joint prosthesis configured to move between an extension position and a flexion position, comprising: a femoral component configured for assembly to the femur; a tibial component configured to be assembled to a tibia, the tibial component configured to engage with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis; a post fixedly coupled to one of the femoral and tibial components, and a cam recess defined on the other of the femoral and tibial components configured to engage the post in either the extension or the flexion position of the knee prosthesis; an artificial ligament fixedly connected to the femoral component and the tibial component, simulating either the anterior cruciate ligament or the posterior cruciate ligament; Including, the posts and the ligaments are oriented so as to intersect when viewed in a sagittal plane, a frontal plane, or both the sagittal and frontal planes; Knee joint prosthesis. Aspect 14 14. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 13, wherein the post is fixedly connected to the femoral component and the cam recess is defined in the tibial component. Aspect 15 14. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 13, wherein the post is fixedly connected to the tibial component and the cam recess is defined in the femoral component. Aspect 16 14. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 13, wherein the posts and ligaments are oriented to intersect in both the sagittal and frontal planes. Aspect 17 14. The knee joint prosthesis of embodiment 13, wherein the tibial component includes an articular insert. Aspect 18 14. The knee joint prosthesis of embodiment 13, wherein each post includes a rounded convex surface and each cam recess is a rounded concave surface. Aspect 19 14. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 13, wherein the post is slidingly engaged with and disengaged from the cam recess. Aspect 20 A knee joint prosthesis as described in aspect 13, wherein the post, the cam recess or the ligament forms part of a removable insert configured to be coupled to either the femoral component or the tibial component. Aspect 21 1. A knee joint prosthesis configured to move between an extension position and a flexion position, comprising: a femoral component configured for assembly to the femur; a tibial component configured to be assembled to a tibia, the tibial component configured to engage with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis; Including, The knee prosthesis, wherein the femoral component and the tibial component are coupled together at least in part by a geared arrangement. Aspect 22 A knee joint prosthesis as described in aspect 21, wherein the gears of the tibial component mesh with the gears of the femoral component and at least one of the gears follows a helical trajectory to cause movement of the tibial component in a medial direction as the knee joint prosthesis is moved toward the extended position. [Explanation of symbols]

[0053] 10 Femoral components 12 Opening 16 Tibial Component 20 Upper assembly part 22 Joint Insert 24 Extension 25 Rear surface 30 Loop 44, 190 Ligament 100, 118, 150, 192, 200, 3000, 400, 500 Knee prosthesis 102, 124, 142, 150, 158, 162, 188 Femoral components 104, 132, 148, 154 Joint Inserts 106 Condylar process 108, 130, 140, 146, 157, 163 Depression 110, 128, 156, 504, 508 Cam 111 Edge 112, 122, 138, 144, 152, 182, 502, 506 Posts 113, 155 Support surface

Claims

1. 1. A knee joint prosthesis configured to move between an extension position and a flexion position, comprising: a femoral component configured to be assembled to the femur; a tibial component configured to be assembled to a tibia, the tibial component configured to engage with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis; a post fixedly connected to one of the femoral and tibial components, and a cam recess defined on the other of the femoral and tibial components configured to engage the post in either the extension or the flexion position of the knee prosthesis; an artificial ligament fixedly connected to the femoral component and the tibial component, simulating either the anterior cruciate ligament or the posterior cruciate ligament; Including, the posts and the ligaments are oriented so as to intersect when viewed in a sagittal plane, a frontal plane, or both the sagittal and frontal planes; Knee joint prosthesis.

2. The knee prosthesis of claim 1 , wherein the post is fixedly connected to the femoral component and the cam recess is defined in the tibial component.

3. The knee prosthesis of claim 1 , wherein the post is fixedly connected to the tibial component and the cam recess is defined in the femoral component.

4. The knee prosthesis of claim 1 , wherein the posts and the ligaments are oriented to intersect in both the sagittal and frontal planes.

5. The knee prosthesis of claim 1 , wherein the tibial component includes an articular insert.

6. 2. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1, wherein each post includes a rounded convex surface and each cam recess is a rounded concave surface.

7. The knee prosthesis of claim 1 , wherein the post is slidingly engaged with and disengaged from the cam recess.

8. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 1 , wherein the post, the cam recess or the ligament form part of a removable insert configured to be coupled to either the femoral component or the tibial component.

9. 1. A knee joint prosthesis configured to move between an extension position and a flexion position, comprising: a femoral component configured to be assembled to the femur; a tibial component configured to be assembled to a tibia, the tibial component configured to engage with the femoral component to form the knee joint prosthesis; Including, The knee prosthesis, wherein the femoral component and the tibial component are coupled together at least in part by a geared arrangement.

10. 10. The knee joint prosthesis of claim 9, wherein the gears of the tibial component mesh with the gears of the femoral component, and at least one of the gears follows a helical trajectory to cause movement of the tibial component in a medial direction as the knee joint prosthesis is moved into the extended position.

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