Orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanisms and related assemblies and systems

Abstract

To provide orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanisms capable of reducing the possibility of prolongation of surgery time.SOLUTION: Orthopedic medical device connection mechanisms and related assemblies and systems generally comprise: a first medical device having a protrusion, the protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along the height of a body of the protrusion, the body of the protrusion comprising an interrupted threaded portion disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end; and a second medical device having an interior sidewall, the interior sidewall defining a hole extending within the second medical device, and a discontinuous threaded portion disposed inside the hole, the discontinuous threaded portion defining a threadless channel extending along a discontinuous threaded portion height, and the discontinuous threaded portion configured to receive the interrupted threaded portion of the protrusion of the first medical device through the threadless channel.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 511,407, filed June 30, 2023. The disclosure of this related application is hereby incorporated in its entirety into this disclosure.

[0002] Technical Field The present disclosure relates generally to the field of orthopaedic surgery, and more particularly to orthopaedic surgical instrument connection mechanisms and related systems and assemblies.

[0003] Related Technology In many minimally invasive orthopedic procedures, surgeons use a variety of tools to prepare and place endoprosthetic implants. Many of these instruments consist of handles and adapters that can connect to various broaching, reaming, and placement tools that are selectively used throughout the procedure. To work efficiently and minimize the time the patient is under anesthesia, surgeons typically work with a team of technicians, nurses, and other medical professionals to assemble and prepare a variety of sterile surgical instruments prior to use.

[0004] Some conventional orthopedic medical device connection mechanisms consist of a single point of engagement, which are typically quick to connect and disconnect, but these designs can lead to improper device attachment or loosening, while other designs include delicate and complex spring and pin mechanisms that are prone to failure when subjected to repeated impacts.

[0005] Other prior devices, such as the device disclosed by Dees et al. in International Application No. PCT / US2016 / 032346, require the use of guide rods, which can limit alignment possibilities, and placement and adjustment of such guide rods can increase surgical time. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] International Application No. PCT / US2016 / 032346 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Summary of the Invention SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE Problems of the prior art are solved by an exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism according to the present disclosure. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Exemplary orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanisms include: a first medical instrument having a protrusion, the protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including a grooved thread portion disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end; a second medical device having a body, an interior sidewall defining a bore extending within the body, and a discontinuous thread disposed within the bore, the discontinuous thread defining an unthreaded channel extending along the discontinuous thread height and configured by the unthreaded channel to receive a groove thread of the protrusion of the first medical device; Contains:

[0009] Certain exemplary embodiments described herein are believed to enable quick, precise and safe assembly and disassembly of orthopedic surgical instruments while enabling the connection mechanism components to withstand repeated blunt forces from the impaction instruments.

[0010] Additionally, it is believed that certain exemplary embodiments described herein enable the use of a variety of modular orthopaedic medical instrument assemblies that can be configured to be assembled and disassembled via the exemplary medical instrument connection mechanisms in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0011] Additionally, it is believed that certain exemplary embodiments described herein may allow for the use of less manual orthopaedic surgical instruments during surgery as compared to conventional designs that utilize complex connection mechanisms.

[0012] Moreover, it is believed that certain exemplary embodiments described herein allow a user to use an orthopedic medical instrument in a free-form manner (eg, without being restricted by a guide instrument such as an intramedullary rod).

[0013] Additionally, certain exemplary embodiments described herein are believed to enable the use of modular medical instruments, such as modular broaches, whose modular broach components can be used together with other modular broach components in the supply of such components, thereby better adapting to each patient's unique anatomy while minimizing inventory.

[0014] The foregoing will become apparent from the following more detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which: The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the disclosed embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary first medical instrument, the first medical instrument being an adapter for an orthopaedic implant assembly. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of an exemplary second medical instrument, the second medical instrument being an orthopedic surgical instrument configured to receive an adapter. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a detailed perspective view of the medical device of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly having an exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism and positioning instrument, the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly shown in an assembled configuration. [Diagram 5] 5 is a close up perspective cross-sectional side view of the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly of FIG. 4; [Figure 6] 6 is an isometric close-up view of an exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly having an exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism. The exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly includes stacked modular orthopaedic surgical instruments shown in exploded form. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly of FIG. 6 shown in an assembled configuration. [Figure 8A] 8A is a bottom view of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly of FIG. 7 shown in a partially assembled configuration. [Figure 8B] 8B is a bottom view of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly of FIG. 7 shown in a fully assembled configuration. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view of an exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly in a pre-engaged configuration. [Figure 10] 10 is an isometric view of an exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly in an assembled configuration. The second medical instrument of the illustrated orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly is an auxiliary adapter. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly of FIG. 10 further showing an endoprosthetic implant engaged to a complementary adaptor. [Figure 12] Fig. 12 is an isometric view of the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly of Fig. 11 engaged with a positioning tool and an endoprosthetic implant being inserted into the resected proximal tibia.

[0016] The following detailed description of the preferred embodiments is presented for purposes of illustration and description only, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope and spirit of the present invention. The embodiments have been chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention disclosed herein can be subject to many modifications without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0017] Unless otherwise noted, like reference characters designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings depict embodiments of various features and components according to the present disclosure, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate the embodiments of the present disclosure, and such illustrations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] Except as expressly stated herein, the following rules of interpretation shall apply herein: (a) all words used herein shall be interpreted according to the gender or number (singular or plural) of the context; (b) the singular terms "a," "an," and "the" used in this specification and the appended claims include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise; (c) the antecedent "about" applied to a recited range or value indicates an approximation due to the deviation of the range or value known or expected in the art from the measured value; (d) the words "herein," "hereby," "hereto," "hereinbefore," and "hereinafter," and words of similar meaning, refer to this specification as a whole and not to any particular paragraph, claim, or other portion, unless otherwise specified; (e) explanatory headings are for convenience only and do not control or affect the meaning of the interpretation of any portion of the specification. (f) "Or" and "any" are not exclusive, and "include" and "including" are not limiting. Further, the terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including but not limited to").

[0019] References herein to "one embodiment," "embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," and the like indicate that the embodiment being described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is asserted that it is within the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0020] To the extent necessary to provide explanatory support, the subject matter and / or text of the appended claims are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0021] The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is intended only as a shorthand method of individually referring to each individual value in all subranges therebetween, unless otherwise stated herein. Each individual value in a recited range is incorporated into the specification or claims as if each individual value were individually recited herein. When a particular range of values ​​is presented, it is understood that each intermediate value between the upper and lower limits of that range, to the nearest tenth of the unit of the lower limit, and any other stated or intermediate value within that recited range subrange, is included herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. All subranges are also included. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges are also included herein, unless there is a limit specifically and explicitly excluded within the recited range.

[0022] The terms "horizontal" and "vertical" are used to indicate orientation relative to an absolute reference, i.e., the earth's surface. However, these terms should not be interpreted as requiring that structures be perfectly parallel or perfectly perpendicular to one another. For example, a first vertical structure and a second vertical structure do not necessarily have to be parallel to one another.

[0023] Throughout this disclosure, various location terms such as "distal," "proximal," "medial," "lateral," "anterior," and "posterior" are used in a conventional manner when referring to anatomical structures of the human body unless otherwise specified. More specifically, "distal" refers to the area away from the site of attachment to the body, and "proximal" refers to the area closer to the site of attachment to the body. For example, the distal femur refers to the portion of the femur closer to the tibia, and the proximal femur refers to the portion of the femur closer to the hip joint. Also, the terms "medial" and "lateral" are essentially opposites. "Medial" refers to something closer to the midline of the body. "Lateral" refers to something closer to the right or left side of the body than the midline of the body. With respect to "anterior" and "posterior," "anterior" refers to something closer to the front of the body, and "posterior" refers to something closer to the back of the body.

[0024] "Varus" and "valgus" are broad terms that include, but are not limited to, medial and / or lateral rotational motion relative to the knee joint.

[0025] The term "femoral functional axis" refers to an imaginary line drawn from the center of the femoral head to the center of the femur distal to the knee.

[0026] The term "anatomical axis" refers to an imaginary line drawn vertically down the middle of the femoral shaft or tibial shaft, depending on the application.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary first medical instrument 105 of an orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 (FIG. 4) including an exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150 (FIG. 5). It will be appreciated that the medical instruments disclosed herein are generally intended for use in surgical procedures, and orthopaedic surgical procedures in particular. In certain exemplary embodiments, it is contemplated that the medical instrument may be an orthopaedic surgical instrument, an orthopaedic implant, an orthopaedic surgical instrument adaptor, or a combination or component thereof. However, this disclosure is not intended to limit the contemplated "medical instruments" to the examples provided. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first medical instrument 105 is an adaptor including a protrusion 115 having a proximal end 117 and a distal end 119 disposed distally from the proximal end 117 along a height bH of the protrusion body 113. The protrusion body 113 may include a shank portion 111 disposed closer to the proximal end 117 than the distal end 119, if desired. The groove threads 118 are located closer to the distal end 119 than to the proximal end 117. In other exemplary embodiments, the non-threaded shank portion 111 may not be present and the groove threads 118 may extend to the proximal end 117.

[0028] The grooved threads 118 desirably include timing threads 135 that extend generally radially outward from a non-grooved portion of the projection body 113. In the illustrated embodiment, the grooved portion of the projection body 113 includes two sheared surfaces 114 that are disposed on opposite sides of the projection body 113 and extend generally along the height bH of the projection body 113.

[0029] 2 illustrates an exemplary second medical instrument 110 of the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 including an exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150. The second medical instrument 110 includes a body 126 having a proximal side 124 disposed distally from a distal side 147, and an interior sidewall 129 (FIG. 3) extending between the proximal side 124 and the distal side 147. The interior sidewall 129 defines a bore 127 extending into the body 126 of the second medical instrument 110. The discontinuous threads 121 are disposed within the bore 127. In the illustrated embodiment, the threads 133 (FIG. 3) of the discontinuous threads 121 extend radially inward from the interior sidewall 129 toward a central longitudinal axis C (FIG. 8A) of the bore 127. The discontinuous threads 121 define an unthreaded channel extending along a discontinuous thread height tpH. In other words, the absence of threads 133 along a portion of the discontinuous thread height tpH defines an unthreaded channel 123. The distance D between adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b (FIG. 3) on either side of the unthreaded channel 123 is desirably sized to snugly receive the groove threads 118 of the projection 115 when the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 begin to engage (i.e., when placed in a "pre-engagement" or "pre-assembly" configuration, see FIG. 8A). In this manner, the discontinuous threads 121 can be said to be "configured to receive" the groove threads 118 of the projection 115 of the first medical device 105 by the unthreaded channel 123. Furthermore, the unthreaded channel 123 that can snugly receive the groove threads 118 of the projection 115 of the first medical device 105 can be said to be a "key slot" or a "keyed unthreaded channel" 123.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, the distance D between adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b on either side of the unthreaded channel 123 is substantially uniform among the plurality of adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that this arrangement is desirable because it facilitates quick guidance of the groove threads 118 of the projection 115 into the discontinuous threads 121, especially in situations where visibility is limited. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to embodiments including an unthreaded channel 123 defined by adjacent discontinuous threads 133a, 133b spaced at a uniform distance D. In certain embodiments, with respect to a pair of adjacent reference discontinuous threads 133a, 133b spaced at the opposite sides of the unthreaded channel 123 spaced at the distance D, one or more discontinuous threads located above or below may be spaced at an unthreaded channel distance that is greater or less than the distance D of the reference discontinuous threads 133a, 133b.

[0031] As can be seen more clearly in FIG. 3, the unthreaded channel 123 can be fitted into the body 126 of the second medical device 110. In other words, the inner sidewall 125 of the unthreaded channel is disposed radially outward from the inner sidewall 129. A step 128 extends radially between an edge 141 of the inner sidewall 129 and an edge 143 of the adjacent unthreaded channel 123. In this manner, the unthreaded channel 123 can be said to be "fitted into the body 126 of the second medical device 110." It will be understood that the same step and edge structure will typically be present on the opposite side of the unthreaded channel 123. In the illustrated embodiment, the second key slot 123b is disposed opposite the first key slot (FIG. 2). It will be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the inner sidewall 125 of the unthreaded channel is not present and the unthreaded channel 123 extends radially further through the body 126 of the second medical device 110. However, in certain exemplary embodiments, the discontinuous threads 121 may be interrupted by a single key slot 123a. In other exemplary embodiments, more than two key slots may be configured in the discontinuous threads 121.

[0032] Without being bound by theory, it is further believed that the fitted key slot 123 within the body 126 of the second medical instrument 110 may further facilitate alignment and guidance of the groove threads 118 of the protrusion 115 of the first medical instrument 105 when connecting or disconnecting the exemplary connection mechanism 150 disclosed herein. This may be particularly beneficial when visibility is limited. The fitted key slot 123 may allow the first medical instrument 105 to be guided into the second medical instrument 110 by feel, which may contribute to efficient assembly or disassembly of the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 including the exemplary connection mechanism 150.

[0033] It will be appreciated that if a similar edge 141, 143 and step 128 structure is present in the orthopedic implant, the key slot 123 can be said to be "inset within the body of the orthopedic implant." Similarly, if a similar edge 141, 143 and step 128 structure is present in the auxiliary adaptor (see FIG. 10), it will be appreciated that the key slot 123 can be said to be "inset within the body of the auxiliary adaptor." In such an embodiment, the opposing step 128 and the inner sidewall 125 of the unthreaded channel can be said to further define the key slot 123. The illustrated exemplary embodiment includes two opposing unthreaded channels 123. Thus, the illustrated discontinuous threads 121 can be said to include a first portion 121a of the discontinuous threads opposed to a second portion 121b of the discontinuous threads. However, it will be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments, there can be a single unthreaded channel 123. In still other exemplary embodiments, there can be more than two unthreaded channels 123. In embodiments having a plurality of unthreaded channels 123, it is desirable for the unthreaded channels to be regularly spaced with respect to an adjacent unthreaded channel 123 or plurality of unthreaded channels 123. However, it will be understood that in other exemplary embodiments the plurality of unthreaded channels 123 may be irregularly spaced with respect to an adjacent unthreaded channel 123 or plurality of unthreaded channels 123.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121 and the threads 135 of the complementary groove threads 118 of the projection 115 desirably have a trapezoidal cross section when bisected radially (see FIG. 3). Without being bound by theory, it is believed that threads 133, 135 having a trapezoidal cross section, such as an ACME thread form or a trapezoidal metric thread form, generally have fewer threads per axial distance, greater strength at the base of the thread form, and greater thread shear capacity, thereby allowing for some increased engagement speed compared to standard threads. Furthermore, it is believed that such trapezoidal threads 133, 135, when cam-locked together, are able to more uniformly and efficiently transmit insertion forces through the engaged threads 133, 135, and therefore are able to withstand repeated insertions longer than non-trapezoidal threads. However, the present disclosure is not intended to limit the threads to ACME, trapezoidal metric, or other trapezoidal threads. All types of threads are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure, including but not limited to standard threads, V-threads, American Standard threads, Unified threads, Metric threads, Square threads, ACME threads, British Standard (Whitworth) threads, Knuckle threads, and Buttress-type threads.

[0035] Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the threads 133 of the discontinuous thread portion 121 and the threads 135 of the groove thread portion 118 are desirably "timed" or "clocked" such that when a given orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is in an assembled configuration, it results in a known angular displacement and a known depth of travel of the projection 115 relative to the starting position of the projection 115 (i.e., the pre-assembled configuration).

[0036] "Screw timing" or "screw clocking" is a function of the pitch and spacing of the threads. In practice, when the threads 135, 133 are in a pre-assembled form (see FIG. 8A), the threads 135 of the groove-threaded portion 118 are located in the unthreaded channels 123a, 123b of the discontinuous threaded portion 121. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, a first transverse axis TA can be assumed to extend between the opposing unthreaded channels 123a, 123b and to laterally bisect the groove-threaded portion 118. When in a pre-assembled form, the groove-threaded portion 118 and the discontinuous threaded portion 121 share a common central longitudinal axis C. In the case of a timing screw, the starting point of the thread engagement is determined by the thread pitch relative to the shared axis of rotation between the inner thread 135 and the outer thread 133 and the length of the projection 115. As the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is rotated from a pre-assembled configuration to an assembled configuration, the threads 135 of the groove threads 118 begin to mesh with the threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121. In the case of a timing screw, the length of the lug moves a known distance into the second medical instrument 110 with each angular displacement. To facilitate a quick connection, it may be desirable for the respective threads 135, 133 to fully mesh and thread together in less than one turn. It is contemplated that a single point thread mill may be used to create the thread profiles described herein.

[0037] A timing screw is believed to be particularly advantageous for the exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism discussed herein due to visibility and time constraints in the operating room. If a surgeon or technician can assemble an orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 with an exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150 without seeing the assembly, and knows that rotating the first medical instrument 105 a known angle ("°") (e.g., 90° in certain embodiments) will result in the assembly being fully assembled and secured, the surgeon can proceed with the procedure with minimal interruption. This can ultimately contribute to reducing the patient's anesthesia time and improving patient safety.

[0038] Furthermore, without being bound by theory, it is believed that the use of trapezoidal and timing threads in the exemplary embodiment, along with grooved threads 118 and discontinuous threads 121, allow the respective threads 133, 135 to mesh (i.e., assume an assembled configuration) more quickly (e.g., in one quarter turn) than a fully threaded connection, which requires several turns to engage the respective components and may not fully thread together, compromising the stability of the connection, especially when subjected to impact forces common in orthopedic surgery.

[0039] Moreover, it will be appreciated that the exemplary orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism 150 of the present disclosure efficiently transmits impact forces around the mating threads 133, 135 when the orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism 150 is in an assembled configuration. This feature reduces wear on the connection mechanism 150 during use and allows for quick assembly and disassembly of orthopedic medical instruments having mating components of the connection mechanism 150, ultimately contributing to reduced anesthesia times for patients.

[0040] Although the protrusion 115 is described herein as extending from the first medical device 105 and the discontinuous thread portion 121 is disposed within the hole 127 of the second medical device 110, it will be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the protrusion 115 may be configured to extend from the second medical device 110 and mate with the discontinuous thread portion 121 disposed within the hole 127 of the first medical device 105 (in all of the manners described throughout this disclosure).

[0041] It will be understood that while the complementary threads 133, 135 are believed to be the most robust and reliable type of engagement mechanism for the exemplary medical device engagement mechanisms described herein, all other rotationally engaged mechanical engagement mechanisms are also considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Non-limiting examples of such other rotationally engaged mechanical engagement mechanisms include one or more additional protrusions extending from the first medical device 105 (further examples include one or more hooks, clamps, clasps, ramps, ledges, or ridges) and one or more receivers disposed within the second medical device 110 (configured to snugly receive one or more additional protrusions from the first medical device 105). The additional receivers include (further examples) one or more complementary rods, clamps, clasps, ramps, loops, arches, ledges, recesses, gaps, or ridges configured to snugly receive one or more additional protrusions from the first medical device 105. It will be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the receivers can be on the first medical device 105 and the additional protrusions can be on the second medical device 110. All of the above combinations and sequences are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] 1 and 2, the exemplary first medical instrument 105 (FIG. 1B) and the exemplary second medical instrument 110 (FIG. 2) are shown in disassembled configuration. Similarly, it will be understood that the exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150 (FIG. 5) is also shown in disassembled configuration. To place the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 with the exemplary connection mechanism 150 in an assembled configuration, the grooved threads 118 of the protrusion 115 can be slid into the unthreaded channel 123 of the discontinuous threads 121 of the second medical instrument 110. Because the unthreaded channel 123 is desirably a keyed slot 123, it is believed that the grooved threads 118 can be quickly inserted into the unthreaded channel 123 with limited or no visibility. When the grooved threads 118 are inserted into the unthreaded channel 123, the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly (and, for that matter, the exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150 itself) 100 is said to be in a "pre-assembled" configuration (see FIGS. 8A and 9). When the projection 115 and groove threads 118 are rotated to engage the threads of the discontinuous threads 121, the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is in an "assembled" configuration (see Figures 7 and 8B).

[0043] 1-8B, the protrusion 115 is fixedly engaged to the base 116 such that the entire first medical instrument 105 (which in the illustrated exemplary embodiment is an adapter) rotates with the protrusion 115 to bring the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 into the assembled configuration. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the protrusion 115 could be capable of rotating independently of the base 116.

[0044] In embodiments, it is contemplated that markings or other indicia may be provided to indicate the starting position in the pre-assembled configuration and the engaged position in the fully assembled configuration.

[0045] With reference to FIG. 9, which illustrates an exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 in a pre-assembled configuration, the movable ridgeless spacer 112 is desirably disposed within a gap G formed between the distal side 103 of the base 116 of the first medical instrument 105 and the proximal side 124 of the second medical instrument 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable ridgeless spacer 112 is stored within the base 116 of the first medical instrument 105 when the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is reoriented from the pre-assembled configuration (FIG. 9) to the assembled configuration (see FIG. 7) by rotation R. It will be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments, the movable ridgeless spacer 112 may be stored within the second medical instrument 110 when the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is reoriented from the pre-assembled configuration to the fully assembled configuration. Any type of spacer capable of being compressed, deformed, or retracted is considered within the scope of the present disclosure. Non-limiting examples of the movable ridgeless spacer 112 include a ball plunger, a retractable pin, or an O-ring.

[0046] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-3, two movable ridgeless spacers 112 are desirably provided at equal and opposite positions within the base 116 to evenly reduce friction as the orientation of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is rotated from a pre-assembled configuration to an assembled configuration. However, it will be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, a single movable ridgeless spacer 112 may be provided. In still other exemplary embodiments, more than two movable ridgeless spacers 112 may be provided. It will be understood that in exemplary embodiments including two or more movable ridgeless spacers 112, the two or more movable ridgeless spacers 112 may be evenly spaced or unequally spaced relative to one another.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, a movable ridgeless spacer receiver 134 is disposed on the proximal surface 122 of the proximal side 124 of the second medical instrument 110. The movable ridgeless spacer 112 of the first medical instrument 105 is disposed within the movable ridgeless spacer receiver 134 when the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is in the assembled configuration. It will be understood that the movable ridgeless spacer 112 and, if present, the movable ridgeless spacer receiver 134 may be disposed on either the first medical instrument 105, the second medical instrument 100, or both the first medical instrument 105 and the second medical instrument 110 in an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] The illustrated first medical instrument 105 further includes a pin 104 extending from the distal side 103 of the base 116. The pin 104 may be used to align the first medical instrument 105 with the second medical instrument 110 in a pre-assembled configuration. A user aligns the pin 104 with a first end 166 of an arcuate groove 136 located on the proximal side 124 of the second medical instrument 110 while inserting the protrusion 115 of the first medical instrument 105 into the unthreaded channel 123 of the discontinuous threads 121 of the second medical instrument 110. The use of the pin 104 in conjunction with the arcuate groove 136 provides quick visual and tactile feedback that the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is in a pre-assembled configuration and properly aligned for full assembly. In other words, the pin 104 and arcuate groove 136 may provide a desirable user indicator of proper alignment of the timing threads 133 , 135 of the connection mechanism 150 .

[0049] As a user rotates the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 to place it in the assembled configuration, the pin 104 rotates with the base 116 and extends further into the opposing arcuate groove 126 until the pin 104 reaches the second arcuately spaced end 167 of the arcuate groove 136. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the pin 104 and groove 136 (if both are present) may be disposed on either the first medical instrument 105, the second medical instrument 100, or on both the first medical instrument 105 and the second medical instrument 110. It will further be appreciated that the threads 133, 135 may be arranged to rotate in a clockwise or counterclockwise manner.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment including timing threads 133, 135, as the user rotates the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 from the pre-assembled configuration to the assembled configuration, the gap G is effectively eliminated, thereby providing further tactile feedback to the user that the first medical instrument 105 has completed engagement with the second medical instrument 110.

[0051] Referring collectively to the specific embodiment of Figures 1-11, these specific examples show an orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 configured for use in knee arthroplasty.

[0052] Briefly, in a typical knee arthroplasty surgery, the surgeon makes a nearly vertical medial parapatellar incision approximately 5 to 6 inches long on the anterior or anteromedial aspect of the knee.

[0053] The surgeon then continues dissection of the fatty tissue to expose the anterior or anteromedial aspect of the joint capsule. The surgeon then performs a medial parapatellar arthrotomy to create a hole in the joint capsule. The surgeon then uses a retractor to move the patella generally laterally (approximately 90 degrees) to expose the cartilage meniscus overlying the distal condyles of the femur and the proximal tibial plateau. The surgeon then removes the meniscus and uses instruments to measure and resect the distal femur and proximal tibia to accommodate the trial implant and ultimately the definitive implant.

[0054] To prepare the resected tibia 180 (FIG. 12) for the tibial component of an endoprosthetic knee implant, the surgeon can insert a series of progressively larger broaches into the proximal tibial metaphysis and shaft to create a bone pocket that reflects the shape and size of the selected implant(s). Broaching instruments often include a broach with a mating mounting feature (see FIGS. 2 and 3) and an adapter (see FIG. 1) that attaches to an impact handle (see FIGS. 4 and 5).

[0055] The proximal tibia 180 may have voids or areas of poor bone quality that compromise the overall stability of the tibial implant construct. Using a cone-shaped implant (see FIGS. 11 and 12), the surgeon can fill and reinforce these areas, preventing further bone deterioration and improving the structural integrity of the bone around the tibial implant.

[0056] Returning to FIG. 1, in the illustrated example, the first medical instrument 105 is an adapter configured to mate with the broach of FIG. 2 (i.e., an example of the second medical instrument 110). The protrusion 115 is a shaft extending from the base 116 of the adapter, preferably from the distal side 103 of the base 116. In a preferred embodiment, a pin 104 and a ball plunger (i.e., an example of a movable ridgeless spacer 112) also extend from the distal side 103 of the base 116. Either the pin 104, the movable ridgeless spacer 112, or both the pin 104 and the movable ridgeless spacer 112 can be used to align the timing threads 133, 135 to allow the first medical instrument 105 and the second medical instrument 110 to be assembled in the manner previously described.

[0057] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first medical instrument 105 (i.e., the adapter) further includes a receiver structure 101 extending from a proximal side 108 of the base 116. The receiver structure 101 includes a receiver structure base 106 extending from the proximal side 108 of the base 116, a bridge 102 extending proximally from the receiver structure base 106, and a receiver backstop 107 extending proximally from the bridge 102. The bridge 102 desirably has a cross-sectional area, when bisected along a transverse plane, that is smaller than the cross-sectional areas of the receiver structure base 106 and the receiver backstop 107. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiver structure 101 is generally cylindrical, with the bridge 102 and the adjacent walls of the receiver structure base 106 and the receiver backstop 107 defining an annular gap 131. The annular gap 131 may be filled by an engagement protrusion (eg, annular follower 156) of the positioning device (FIGS. 4 and 5) to selectively engage the first medical device 105.

[0058] Returning to FIGS. 2 and 3, in the illustrated example, the second medical device 110 is a broach configured to mate with the adapter of FIG. 1. The illustrated second medical device 110 includes an interior sidewall 129. The interior sidewall 129 defines a bore 127 that extends into the body 126 of the second medical device 110. The discontinuous threads 121 are disposed within the bore 127. The threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121 extend radially inward from the interior sidewall 129 toward the central longitudinal axis C of the bore 127 (FIG. 8A). The discontinuous threads 121 define an unthreaded channel 123 that extends along the discontinuous thread height tpH. The unthreaded channel 123 allows the discontinuous threads 121 to receive the groove threads 118 of the protrusion 115 of the first medical device 105. The illustrated outer side 146 of the second medical instrument 110 further includes a number of broach teeth 149 disposed generally circumferentially along the height of the second medical instrument 110. The outer side 146 and the number of broach teeth 149 may define one or more tip breeches 148. When one of the medical instruments according to the present disclosure is a broach, the tip breech 148 disposed on the outer side of the broach allows bone marrow and other metaphyseal and / or diaphyseal tissue to be broken down as "chips" and ejected through the tip breech 148 to facilitate broaching. The tip breech 148 is preferably disposed at an angle on the outer side 146 such that an end of the tip breech 148 disposed near the distal side 147 of the second medical instrument 110 is offset from an end of the tip breech 148 disposed near the proximal side 124 of the second medical instrument 110. Without the angled tip breech 148, tissue may be ejected as longer ribbons or may be prevented from ejecting altogether.

[0059] It will be appreciated that the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 may be manufactured from materials having desirable physical and chemical properties for the intended purpose. For example, if the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 are reusable orthopedic devices, the material may be stainless steel or other suitable clinically tested materials. In examples where the first medical device 105, the second medical device 110, or components thereof are designed for single use or for limited use, the material may be selected from a group essentially including polyetheretherketone ("PEEK"), polyethylene (including but not limited to ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene ("UHMWPE") and cross-linked polyethylene ("XLPE")) ("PE"), and polyamide (including but not limited to glass-filled polyamide and carbon fiber-filled polyamide).

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment where it is desirable to minimize scratches between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 or components thereof, the first medical device 105, the second medical device 110, or the mating components thereof may be manufactured from PEEK. In one exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 118 are manufactured from PEEK and the remainder of the first medical device 110 are not manufactured from PEEK. In other exemplary embodiments, the first medical device 105, the second medical device 110, or components thereof may be coated to further reduce visible signs of wear, to further reduce the coefficient of friction, or to accommodate patient allergies. A non-limiting list of examples of coatings includes cobalt chromium molybdenum alloy, zirconium oxide, and niobium nitride. In other exemplary embodiments, the threads 135 of the groove threads 118 may indirectly engage the threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121 in the assembled configuration. In such an exemplary embodiment, a liner or other intermediate structure may be disposed between the respective threads 133, 135 in the assembled configuration. Such liners may be made from materials selected for the desired purpose, which may include any of the materials listed herein.

[0061] 4 and 5 show an exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 selectively fixedly engaged to a positioning instrument 153 (e.g., a handle) in an assembled configuration. As shown in FIG. 5, which is a detailed perspective cross-sectional side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the positioning instrument 153 engages the bridge 102 of the receiver structure 101 by a biased engagement mechanism 155. Any biased engagement mechanism 155 known to those of skill in the art is considered within the scope of this disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the biased engagement mechanism 155 includes a biasing spring 157 disposed within a housing 159 of the positioning instrument 153. The biasing spring 157 exerts a biasing force on an annular follower 156 that surrounds the bridge 102 of the receiver structure 101 of the first medical instrument 105 when the receiver structure 101 is disposed within the positioning instrument 153. The annular follower 156, in turn, exerts a biasing force on the bridge 102. The bridge 102 distributes these forces to the adjacent housing 159 of the positioning instrument 153 by way of the receiver backstop 107 and receiver structural base 106, thereby securely engaging the first medical instrument 105 of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100.

[0062] To release the first medical instrument 105 from the positioning instrument 153, a user depresses the exposed button 154 of the biased engagement mechanism 155, removing the biasing force of the bias spring 157, thereby disengaging the bridge 102 from the annular follower 156 and allowing the first medical instrument 105 to be removed from the positioning instrument 153. In this manner, the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 is said to be “selectively fixedly engaged” to the positioning instrument 153.

[0063] 5 further illustrates the exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150 in an assembled configuration. The threads 135 of the grooved threads 118 are inserted into the unthreaded channel 123 of the discontinuous threads 121 of the second medical instrument 110 (e.g., a broach). The threads 135 are then rotated so that they are disposed between and snugly received within adjacent threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121, thereby engaging the threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121. To remove the medical instrument connection mechanism 150, thereby placing the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly in a disassembled configuration, the user can rotate the second medical instrument 110 relative to the first medical instrument 105 such that the threads 135 of the grooved threads 118 are disengaged from the threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121 and move toward the unthreaded channel 123 relative to the second medical instrument 110. When the threads 135 of the groove thread portion 118 are within the unthreaded channel 123, the first medical instrument 105 can be pulled longitudinally from the second medical instrument 110, thereby placing the exemplary orthopedic surgical instrument assembly in a disassembled configuration.

[0064] 6 and 7 are perspective views of another exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 including an exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150 in an assembled configuration with a plurality of additional medical instruments 110b, 110c disposed between a first medical instrument 105 and a second medical instrument 110a. In the illustrated embodiment, each additional medical instrument 110b, 110c disposed between the first medical instrument 105 and the second medical instrument 110a includes two opposing unthreaded channels 123b, 123c, each of which may engage with the groove threads 118 of the protrusion 115 of the first medical instrument 105, as described above. The first medical instrument 105 of the illustrated embodiment has a longer protrusion 115 than the protrusion 115 shown in FIG. In practice, the distal ends 119 of the projections 115 shown in Figures 6 and 7 may extend through the opposing unthreaded channels 123c, 123b of the additional medical instruments 110b, 110c, and into the opposing unthreaded channel 123a of the second medical instrument 110, placing the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 in a pre-assembled configuration. When the groove threads 118 rotate out of the opposing unthreaded channel 123a of the second medical instrument 110 and engage the adjacent threads 133 of the discontinuous threads 121 of the second medical instrument 110, the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 (and thus the exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150) is said to be in an "assembled configuration." In Figures 6-7, the second medical instrument 110a and each of the additional medical instruments 110b, 110c (e.g., the third medical instrument 110b and the fourth medical instrument 110c) are stackable broaches. However, it will be appreciated that other types of medical devices may be used in other embodiments.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth medical instrument 110c is sized smaller than the third medical instrument 110b to accommodate the natural taper of the bone into which the assembled orthopaedic surgical instrument 100 is inserted. In an exemplary embodiment, the third medical instrument 110b may be the same size as the second medical instrument 100a. In other exemplary embodiments, the size of the medical instruments provided may all be different than the size of one or more of the other additional medical instruments provided. It is believed that the additional medical instruments 110b, 110c having an exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism 150 according to the present disclosure allows for true modularity (i.e., the second, third, fourth, or further medical instruments 110a, 110b, 110c, . . . may all be used interchangeably with the first medical instrument 105 (e.g., an adapter)). Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the true modularity of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 contemplated in this disclosure enables a user to quickly assemble a desired broach assembly to better broach a desired site of a desired bone in a manner that accommodates a patient's unique natural anatomy while minimizing inventory.

[0066] It will be appreciated that in other exemplary embodiments, the protrusion 115 may include a plurality of groove threads, one of which may further engage the discontinuous threads 121b, 121c of an additional medical device 110b, 110c disposed between the first medical device 105 and the second medical device 110 in the assembled configuration. The threads 135, 133 of the respective threads are preferably timed as described above. It will be appreciated that in embodiments including a plurality of additional medical devices 110b, 110c, the angular displacement of the protrusion 115 (when moving from the pre-assembled configuration to the assembled configuration) may be less than in embodiments without the additional medical devices 110b, 110c.

[0067] Figure 8A is a bottom view of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 of Figures 6 and 7 shown in a pre-assembled configuration. Figure 8B is a bottom view of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 of Figures 6 and 7 shown in an assembled configuration.

[0068] Although the figures generally show the hole 127 extending through the center of the body 126 of the second medical instrument 110 being generally symmetric about the bisecting coronal and sagittal planes, nothing in this disclosure is intended to limit the invention to the illustrated embodiment. In other exemplary embodiments, the hole 127, and therefore the discontinuous threads 121, may be located closer to a portion of the distal side 147 of the body 126 of the second medical instrument 110 than other portions of the distal side 147. Additionally, in other exemplary embodiments, the first or second medical instruments 105, 110 may be asymmetric, symmetric about a single bisecting plane, symmetric about multiple bisecting planes, or radially symmetric.

[0069] In the embodiment shown and described with reference to Figures 2-8B, the second medical instrument 110 is an osteogenic instrument. Common osteogenic instruments include broaches (see Figures 2-8B), rasps, reamers, keel punches, and other cutting instruments. However, it will be understood that in other exemplary embodiments, the second medical instrument 110 can be an orthopedic instrument other than an osteogenic instrument. Such instruments include measuring instruments, visualization instruments, and combinations thereof. Combinations and arrangements of measuring or visualization instruments with osteogenic instruments are considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0070] The exemplary embodiment shown and described with reference to FIGS. 2-8B may be particularly adapted to prepare the proximal tibia 180 for one or more conical tibial inserts 160 (see FIGS. 11 and 12). The conical tibial insert 160 is a type of orthopaedic endoprosthetic implant. The conical tibial insert 160 is typically used when the surgical tibia 180 has a void or poor bone quality. The surgeon may ream, broach, or otherwise remove cancellous bone from the metaphysis and / or diaphysis to create a pocket that generally complements and mirrors the external dimensions of the conical tibial insert 160. When inserted, the conical tibial insert 160 reinforces the metaphysis and / or diaphysis of the tibia 180, further reducing bone deterioration and improving the structural integrity of the bone surrounding the tibial component of the endoprosthetic knee implant.

[0071] The modular orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 of FIGS. 6 and 7 is an example of a broaching instrument with an exemplary mechanical connection mechanism 150. The illustrated broaching instrument also preferably includes a complementary conical tibial insert 160 having external dimensions that mirror or complement the external dimensions of the broach structure (i.e., additional medical instruments 110b, 110c to be positioned between the first medical instrument 105 and the second medical instrument 110). The conical tibial insert 160 is preferably a modular conical tibial insert. In this manner, the surgeon may select the size and shape of the additional medical instruments 110b, 110c (e.g., modular tibial broaches having components of an exemplary connection mechanism 150 according to the present disclosure) that are appropriate for the unique anatomy of the surgical patient's tibia 180. The surgeon may then assemble the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 in the manner described above. Once assembled, the surgeon can place a broaching instrument over the resected tibia 180 and use a hammer or other impactor to broach the proximal tibia 180 to create a pocket that complements the outer dimensions of the prepared conical tibial insert 160 (FIG. 12).

[0072] The prepared conical tibial insert 160 matches the outer dimensions of the broach so that the pocket created in the tibia 180 can snugly receive the conical tibial insert 160. Figures 10-12 illustrate this concept.

[0073] Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 in an assembled configuration where the first medical instrument 105 is an adaptor and the second medical instrument 110 is a complementary adaptor configured to selectively engage a conical tibial insert 160 (Figure 11). Figure 11 illustrates the conical tibial insert 160 selectively engaged to the orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 by a wedge taper. Figure 12 illustrates the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 of Figure 11 further attached to a positioning instrument 153 (e.g., a handle) where the conical tibial insert 160 is positioned within a pocket in a resected proximal tibia 180 created by a broaching orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100, such as those shown in any of Figures 1-8B.

[0074] In other exemplary embodiments, the second medical instrument 110 may be an orthopedic implant configured to receive the protrusion 115 of the first medical instrument 105 (see FIG. 11 ). A non-limiting list of examples of orthopedic implants includes, but is not necessarily limited to, tibial cones, femoral cones, tibial and femoral components of an endoprosthetic implant, and trial implants of any of the foregoing.

[0075] In other exemplary embodiments, the second medical instrument 110 may be an auxiliary adaptor (FIG. 10). In such exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary adaptor may be further configured to selectively engage an orthopedic surgical instrument, an orthopedic implant, or another adaptor (see FIG. 11). In such exemplary embodiments including an auxiliary adaptor, the orthopedic implant, orthopedic instrument, or another adaptor may be said to be configured to indirectly engage the first medical instrument 105.

[0076] Other common orthopaedic implants include implants or components thereof that extend into the metaphyseal or diaphyseal bone when implanted, other arguments, spacing elements, and void fillers. It will be understood that all content of this disclosure is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure to the knee joint. All orthopaedic instruments, orthopaedic implants, and auxiliary adaptors having the exemplary connection mechanism 150 are considered within the scope of this disclosure.

[0077] The components of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 may be provided in the form of a surgical kit. The kit components are preferably arranged in a convenient format, such as a surgical tray or case. However, the kit components do not need to be packaged or shipped together, so long as they are assembled or collected together in the operating room for use during surgery.

[0078] The exemplary kits may include all suitable embodiments of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100, variations of the exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly 100 described herein, and all other exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assemblies according to embodiments. The exemplary kits may include one or more first medical instruments 105 (preferably different sizes), one or more second medical instruments (preferably different sizes), and one or more additional medical instruments 110b, 110c (preferably different sizes) configured to be positioned between the first medical instrument 105 and the second medical instrument 110 in an assembled configuration, although it will be understood that a particular kit may lack some or all of these elements.

[0079] All suitable embodiments of the first medical device 105, variations of the first medical device 105 described herein, and all other first medical devices 105 according to embodiments are considered within the scope of this disclosure. All suitable embodiments of the second medical device 110, variations of the second medical device 110 described herein, and all other second medical devices 110 according to embodiments are considered within the scope of this disclosure. All suitable embodiments of the additional medical device 110b, variations of the additional medical device 110b described herein, and all other additional medical devices 110b according to embodiments are considered within the scope of this disclosure.

[0080] The appropriate number or types of first medical instrument 105, second medical instrument 110, and additional medical instruments 110b (e.g., 110c) to include in a kit according to a particular embodiment may be selected based on various considerations, such as the procedure intended to be performed using the components included in the kit.

[0081] An exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly may include an adapter and an orthopaedic surgical instrument. The adapter has a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the shaft body, the shaft body including a shank portion disposed closer to the proximal end than the distal end and a groove thread portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end. The orthopaedic surgical instrument has a body and an interior sidewall defining a bore extending into the orthopaedic surgical instrument body, the bore configured to receive a shaft of an adapter with discontinuous threads that define an unthreaded channel extending longitudinally therethrough.

[0082] Certain exemplary assemblies may further include an engagement arrangement, where the shaft threads of the grooved threads on the distal end of the shaft adjacently engage the threads of the discontinuous threads of the orthopaedic surgical instrument.

[0083] In certain exemplary assemblies, the shaft threads and the discontinuous threads are trapezoidal.

[0084] An exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly may include an adapter and an orthopaedic surgical instrument. The adapter has a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the shaft body, the shaft body including a grooved thread disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end. The orthopaedic surgical instrument has a body, an interior sidewall, and a discontinuous thread. The interior sidewall defines a bore extending into the body. The discontinuous thread includes a series of threads extending radially inward from the interior sidewall toward the central longitudinal axis. The discontinuous thread defines an unthreaded channel extending along a height of the discontinuous thread. The unthreaded channel interior sidewall has a first unthreaded channel edge and a second unthreaded channel edge. The first unthreaded channel edge is disposed radially outward from and adjacent to a first edge of the interior sidewall in a circular configuration, defining a first radially disposed step between the first edge of the interior sidewall and the first unthreaded channel edge. The second unthreaded channel edge is disposed radially outward from and adjacent to a second edge of the interior sidewall in a circular configuration, defining a second radially disposed step between the second edge of the interior sidewall and the second unthreaded channel edge. The threads terminate at or before a first step and a second step, and the first step, the second step and the unthreaded channel interior sidewall define a key slot extending longitudinally along the orthopaedic surgical instrument. The key slot is configured to snugly receive the groove threads of the adapter.

[0085] An exemplary orthopaedic surgical instrument assembly may include an adapter and an orthopaedic surgical instrument. The adapter has a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the shaft body, the shaft body including a grooved thread disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end. The orthopaedic surgical instrument has a body, an interior sidewall, and a discontinuous thread. The interior sidewall defines a bore extending into the body. The discontinuous thread includes a series of threads extending radially inward from the interior sidewall toward the central longitudinal axis. The discontinuous thread defines an unthreaded channel extending along a height of the discontinuous thread. The first unthreaded channel interior sidewall has a first unthreaded channel edge and a second unthreaded channel edge. The first unthreaded channel edge is disposed radially outward from and adjacent to a first edge of the interior sidewall in a circular configuration, defining a first radially disposed step between the first edge of the interior sidewall and the first unthreaded channel edge. The second unthreaded channel edge is disposed radially outward from and adjacent to a second edge of the interior sidewall in a circular configuration, defining a second radially disposed step between the second edge of the interior sidewall and the second unthreaded channel edge. The threads terminate at or before a first step and a second step, and the first step, second step, and unthreaded channel inner sidewall define a first key slot extending longitudinally along the orthopaedic surgical instrument. The second unthreaded channel inner sidewall has a third unthreaded channel edge and a fourth unthreaded channel edge. The third unthreaded channel edge is disposed radially outwardly from and adjacent to the third edge of the inner sidewall in a circular configuration, defining a third step radially disposed between the third edge of the inner sidewall and the third unthreaded channel edge. The fourth unthreaded channel edge is disposed radially outwardly from and adjacent to the fourth edge of the inner sidewall in a circular configuration, defining a fourth step radially disposed between the fourth edge of the inner sidewall and the fourth unthreaded channel edge. The threads terminate at or before a third step and a fourth step, and the third step, the fourth step and the second unthreaded channel interior sidewall define a second key slot extending longitudinally along the orthopaedic surgical instrument. The key slot is configured to snugly receive the groove threads of the adapter.

[0086] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism includes a first medical instrument and a second medical instrument. The first medical device has a protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including a grooved thread portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end. The second medical device has a body, an interior sidewall, and a discontinuous thread. The interior sidewall defines a bore extending into the body. The discontinuous threads are disposed in the bore and define an unthreaded channel extending along the discontinuous threads height. The discontinuous threads are configured to receive the groove threads of the protrusion of the first medical device through the unthreaded channel.

[0087] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism may have a prong that further includes a shank portion located closer to the proximal end than to the distal end of the prong.

[0088] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism may have groove threads and discontinuous threads with a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.

[0089] An exemplary orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism may have a discontinuous thread defining a plurality of unthreaded channels extending along the discontinuous thread height. Such exemplary embodiments may optionally have a discontinuous thread configured with the plurality of unthreaded channels to receive a groove-threaded portion of a protrusion of a first medical instrument.

[0090] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism may have groove threads and discontinuous threads that are timing threads.

[0091] An exemplary orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism may have a first medical instrument further including a base. A protrusion extends from a distal side of the base and a movable ridgeless spacer extends from the distal side of the base. Such exemplary embodiment may optionally further include a pin extending from the distal side of the base. It will be appreciated that such exemplary medical instrument connection mechanism may have a second medical instrument further including a proximal side of the second medical instrument, the proximal side of the second medical instrument further including a movable ridgeless spacer receiver. In such exemplary embodiment, the proximal side of the second medical instrument may optionally further define an arcuate groove configured to snugly receive the pin of the first medical instrument when the configuration of the medical instrument connection mechanism changes from a pre-assembled configuration to an assembled configuration.

[0092] The exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism may further include a number of additional medical instruments disposed between the first medical instrument and the second medical instrument when the medical instrument connection mechanism is in the assembled configuration.

[0093] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism may select the first medical instrument from a group essentially including an adapter, a handle, and a positioning member.

[0094] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism may include a second medical instrument selected from the group essentially including a broach, a reamer, a file, a keel punch, and an osteotomy device.

[0095] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism may select the second medical instrument from a group essentially including an endoprosthetic cone, an endoprosthetic implant, and an endoprosthetic implant component.

[0096] In an exemplary orthopaedic medical device connection mechanism, the second medical instrument may be an auxiliary adaptor configured to engage with an orthopaedic surgical instrument, an orthopaedic endoprosthetic implant, or a component thereof.

[0097] In an exemplary orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism, the unthreaded channel can be a keyed slot that is fitted into the body of the second medical instrument.

[0098] In an exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism, the threaded portion of the prong may be a keyed threaded portion.

[0099] An exemplary orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism includes a first medical instrument and a second medical instrument. The first medical device has a protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including a grooved thread portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end. The second medical device has a body, an interior sidewall, and a discontinuous thread. The interior sidewall defines a bore extending into the body. The discontinuous thread is disposed in the bore and defines an unthreaded channel extending along the discontinuous thread height. The discontinuous thread is configured to receive the groove thread of the prong of the first medical device through the unthreaded channel. The threads of the groove thread and the threads of the discontinuous thread are timing threads.

[0100] While the present invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments, it is anticipated that modifications and improvements thereon will no doubt become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore intended that the following claims be interpreted as covering all such modifications and improvements which fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. a first medical device having a protrusion, the protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including a grooved thread portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end; a second medical device having a body, an interior sidewall defining a bore extending within the body, and a discontinuous thread disposed within the bore, the discontinuous thread defining an unthreaded channel extending along a discontinuous thread height and configured to receive the groove thread of the protrusion of the first medical device through the unthreaded channel; An orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism comprising:

2. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the prong further includes a shank portion located closer to the proximal end of the prong than to the distal end.

3. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the cross-sectional shape of the threads of the groove thread portion and the threads of the discontinuous thread portion are trapezoidal.

4. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the discontinuous threads define a plurality of unthreaded channels extending along a height of the discontinuous threads.

5. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 4 , wherein the discontinuous threads are configured to receive the groove threads of the protrusion of the first medical instrument by a plurality of unthreaded channels.

6. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the grooved threads and the discontinuous threads are timed threads.

7. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the first medical instrument further comprises a base, the protrusion extending from a distal side of the base, and a movable ridgeless spacer extending from the distal side of the base.

8. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 7 , further comprising a pin extending from the distal side of the base.

9. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 8 , wherein the second medical instrument further comprises a proximal side of the second medical instrument, the proximal side of the second medical instrument further comprising a movable ridgeless spacer receiving portion.

10. The orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 9 , wherein the proximal side of the second medical instrument further defines an arcuate groove configured to snugly receive the pin of the first medical instrument when the configuration of the medical instrument connection mechanism changes from a pre-assembled configuration to an assembled configuration.

11. The orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of additional medical instruments disposed between the first medical instrument and the second medical instrument when the medical instrument connection mechanism is in an assembled configuration.

12. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the first medical instrument is selected from the group consisting of an adapter, a handle, and a positioning member.

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

14. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the second medical instrument is selected from the group consisting of an endoprosthetic cone, an endoprosthetic implant, and an endoprosthetic implant component.

15. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the second medical instrument is an auxiliary adaptor configured to engage an orthopaedic surgical instrument, an orthopaedic endoprosthetic implant, or a component thereof.

16. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the unthreaded channel is a key slot recessed into the body of the second medical instrument.

17. The orthopaedic medical instrument connection mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the groove threads of the projection are keyed groove threads.

18. a first medical device having a protrusion, the protrusion including a proximal end and a distal end disposed distally from the proximal end along a height of the protrusion body, the protrusion body including a grooved thread portion disposed closer to the distal end than the proximal end; a second medical device having a body, an interior sidewall defining a bore extending within the body, and a discontinuous thread disposed within the bore, the discontinuous thread defining an unthreaded channel extending along a discontinuous thread height and configured to receive the groove thread of the protrusion of the first medical device through the unthreaded channel, the threads of the groove thread and the threads of the discontinuous thread being timing threads; An orthopedic medical instrument connection mechanism comprising:

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