Shoulder stem with modular sensors

Abstract

An implant configured for implantation into a human body includes a stem (102) having an elongate body (114) with a distal portion (110). The stem includes a cavity (116) extending through the distal portion and into the elongate body. The stem also includes an attachment mechanism (128) at an opposite end (112) of the stem from the cavity. The attachment mechanism is configured to receive a second implant component (106).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (Priority Claim) This patent application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 319,552, filed March 14, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 409,388, filed September 23, 2022, both of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. [Background technology]

[0002] The shoulder joint is a complex joint in which the scapula, clavicle, and humerus all work together to allow a wide range of motion, at least in a properly functioning joint. In a properly functioning shoulder joint, the head of the humerus typically fits into a shallow cavity in the scapula called the glenoid cavity. Shoulder articulation involves movement of the head of the humerus within the cavity, and the structure of the mating surfaces and surrounding tissues provide a wide range of motion.

[0003] The shoulder joint may undergo degenerative changes resulting from a variety of problems, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, vascular necrosis, or fracture. When significant joint damage occurs and no other effective means of treatment are found, total, partial, or reverse shoulder replacement or reconstruction may be necessary. A total shoulder replacement may involve a humeral prosthesis that includes a stem and head portion that is used to replace the natural humeral head. A total shoulder replacement also typically involves resurfacing of the glenoid cavity with a prosthetic implant. The glenoid implant will generally include an articulating cup that is shaped to accommodate the prosthetic humeral head. A reverse shoulder replacement (arthroplasty) involves a different set of humeral and glenoid replacement prostheses. In a reverse shoulder replacement, a spherical glenoid component is used to provide the articular surface for the humeral cup, while the humeral component includes a cup-shaped articular surface attached to a stem that is implanted within the humerus. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may depict similar components in different figures. Like numerals with different suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings generally illustrate, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed herein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a smart implant installed within the human body. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of multiple stems. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the sensor assembly. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly mounted within an implant stem. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of the first sensor assembly. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a second sensor assembly. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of a system including a first plurality of stems and a second portion of the plurality of stems. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of the implant and sizing fixture. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an implant plug. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an implant plug mounted within an implant stem. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of an implant plug. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of the sensor assembly. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows another embodiment of one of the stems. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the sensor assembly of FIG. 12 mounted within multiple stems of FIG. [Figure 15]FIG. 15 shows another embodiment of a plurality of stems with a sensor assembly mounted therein. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of the sensor assembly during installation on another embodiment of the multiple stems. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows the sensor assembly of FIG. 16 mounted within a plurality of the stems of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] The present disclosure relates generally to a system (hereinafter "system") configured for implantation within the human body. The system may include a plurality of implant stems (hereinafter "implant stems"). The implant stems may be of different sizes (e.g., different diameters around the circumference of the implant stem). The system may include multiple implant stems, each of which is different in size from the other implant stems. Although described in the context of a system for shoulder arthroplasty, the instruments and system may be used for implants in other joints, such as stems for knees, hips, etc.

[0007] The system may also include a sensor assembly that may be inserted into any one of the implant stems. The sensor assembly may include a number of different types of sensors (e.g., accelerometers, gyro sensors, piezoelectric sensors, or combinations thereof, including any other sensor that may be used to detect motion within the body) that may record and store information. The sensor assembly may also include an antenna that may communicate the stored information to an external controller. The sensor assembly may include a nose cone that includes one diameter. In another example, the system may include multiple sensor assemblies. Each sensor assembly of the multiple sensor assemblies may have a nose cone with a different diameter.

[0008] The system may also include at least one implant plug (hereinafter referred to as "implant plug") that is mountable into any one of the implant stems. Each sensor and each implant plug may include a mechanical interface that allows each sensor and each implant plug to be attached to and removed from any one of the implant stems using a tool that includes a mechanical interface complementary to the mechanical interface on each sensor and each implant plug. When inserted into the implant stem, the implant plug may define the shape of an implant plug without a cavity for a sensor. Thus, the implant plug may allow an implant stem with a cavity to be inserted into a patient's body without a sensor.

[0009] The system can be shipped to a customer (e.g., a surgeon) with an implant plug coupled to each implant stem, or the system can include a single implant plug that can be attached into any of the implant stems. Each implant plug can be attached into any of the implant stems before the implant stem is inserted into the sizing fixture. The sizing fixture is a safety device to ensure that the implant stem selected from the system matches the size of the ream in the patient's bone. After the size of the implant stem is confirmed, the customer can use the sizing fixture to couple one of the implant stems to a second implant component (e.g., a humeral head adapter or any other component that can be attached to the modular implant stem). Sizing and fitting of the modular implant stem can introduce stresses and pressures into the implant stem. Additionally, the end of the implant stem can come into contact with the sizing fixture during sizing of the implant stem and fitting of the second implant component to the implant stem. Therefore, to prevent the sensor from being damaged and to prevent deformation of the implant stem, an implant plug can be installed within the implant stem prior to the sizing and fitting process.

[0010] After the second implant component is coupled to the implant stem, the implant plug can be removed from the implant stem and the sensor assembly can be coupled to the implant stem. The implant stem with the sensor assembly can be installed in the reamed bone of the patient. Once installed in the patient, the sensor of the sensor assembly can be switched on using an external controller and the sensor can be used to measure or detect various parameters related to the patient's motion. In an embodiment, the parameters captured by the sensor can be analyzed (e.g., by a doctor, nurse, or by software) to ensure that the patient is achieving fitness goals, such as a desired range of motion for the shoulder. In an embodiment, the parameters captured by the sensor can assist a doctor in prescribing physical therapy to help the patient achieve their shoulder range of motion goals and can be used proactively to diagnose shoulder conditions. A system including an implant stem, an implant plug, and a sensor assembly is discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 17.

[0011] The above discussion is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive description of the invention. The following description is included for the purpose of providing further information about this patent application.

[0012] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a smart implant 100 installed within a human body. The smart implant 100 can include an implant stem 102, a sensor assembly 104, a second implant component 106, and a controller 108. The implant stem 102 can include a first end 110 and a second end 112. An elongated body 114 can extend between the first end 110 and the second end 112. The elongated body 114 can include a cavity 116 formed therein. The elongated body 114 can extend from the first end 110 of the implant stem 102 toward the second end 112 of the implant stem 102. The cavity 116 can form an opening 118 at the first end 110 of the implant stem 102.

[0013] The sensor assembly 104 can be configured to fit within the cavity 116 of the implant stem 102. The sensor assembly 104 can include a sensor 124. The sensor assembly 104 can also include an antenna 126 mounted within the nose cone 122. The antenna 126 can be in electrical communication with the sensor 124. The sensor assembly 104 is discussed in more detail below with reference to FIG.

[0014] The controller 108 may include one or more processors, microprocessors, microcontrollers, electronic control modules (ECMs), electronic control units (ECUs), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), or any other suitable means for electronically communicating with the smart implant 100. The controller 108 may be configured to operate according to a predetermined algorithm or instruction set for communicating with the smart implant 100. Such algorithms or instruction sets may be stored in a database, may be loaded into on-board memory of the controller 108, or may be pre-programmed onto a storage medium or memory accessible by the controller 108, for example, in the form of a floppy disk, a hard drive, an optical medium, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), or any other suitable computer-readable storage medium commonly used in the art, which may be in the form of a physical, non-transitory storage medium (each of which may be referred to as a "database").

[0015] The controller 108 may be in electrical communication with or connected to a display (not shown), etc., and to various other components or multiple smart implants, such as smart implant 100. By such connection, the controller 108 may receive data related to rehabilitation or diagnostic data stored within the sensor assembly 104. In response to such inputs, the controller 108 may make various decisions and transmit output signals corresponding to the results of such decisions or corresponding to actions that need to be taken, such as alerting a physician of any recommended physical therapy exercises or alerting a physician of any potential diagnosis.

[0016] The controller 108 including human machine interface may include various output devices, such as screens, video displays, monitors, etc., that can be used to display information, alerts, and data, such as text, numbers, graphics, icons, etc., regarding the status of the smart implant 100. The controller 108 including human machine interface may further include a number of input interfaces for receiving information and command signals from various sensors associated with the smart implant 100, and a number of output interfaces for transmitting control signals to the smart implant 100. Being suitably programmed, the controller 108 may serve many additional similar or completely disparate purposes.

[0017] The second end 112 of the implant stem 102 can include an attachment mechanism 128. The attachment mechanism 128 can be configured to accommodate any of a variety of different types of second implant components 106. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the second implant component 106 can be a humeral head adaptor configured to interface with a mating implant component (e.g., a glenoid component). In another embodiment, the second implant component 106 can be a humeral cap configured to interface with a mating implant component (e.g., a glenosphere). In yet another embodiment, the second implant component 106 can be a component used in a knee, hip, or any other joint replacement configured to interface with a respective mating implant component.

[0018] 2 shows a schematic diagram of a plurality of implant stems 102. As shown in FIG. 2, each implant stem of the plurality of implant stems 102 can have an elongate body diameter 130. The elongate body diameter 130 of the implant stem 102 can be within a range of 4.0 millimeters to 20.0 millimeters (0.157 inches to 0.787 inches). The elongate body diameter 130 can be selected to match a reamed portion of the patient's bone.

[0019] 3 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the sensor assembly 104. The sensor assembly 104 can include a sensor housing 120, a nose cone 122, and at least one sensor 124. The at least one sensor 124 can include different types of sensors capable of recording and storing information (e.g., accelerometers, gyro sensors, piezoelectric sensors, thermometers, strain gauges, or combinations thereof, including any other sensor that can be used to detect movement within the body). As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the sensor 124 can be inside the sensor housing 120. The sensor 124 can be configured to fit within the cavity 116 (FIG. 1) of the implant stem 102 (FIG. 1).

[0020] In one embodiment, the nosecone 122 may include the mechanical interface 132 and the threads 134. In another embodiment, the nosecone 122 may include the mechanical interface 132 and the sensor housing 120 may include the threads 134. A tool (e.g., tool 706 first shown in FIG. 7 ) may engage the mechanical interface 132 to couple or decouple the sensor assembly 104 and the implant stem 102. The mechanical interface 132 is discussed in more detail below.

[0021] 4 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a sensor assembly 104 mounted within an implant stem 102. A portion of the sensor assembly 104 can be configured to fit within a cavity 116 of the elongate body 114. When mounted within the first end 110 of the implant stem 102, a nose cone 122 of the sensor assembly 104 can form one end of the implant stem 102.

[0022] The cavity 116 of the implant stem 102 may include an inner surface 136. The inner surface 136 may include threads 138. The sensor assembly 104 may also include threads 134 (e.g., formed on the sensor housing 120, the nosecone 122, or the sensor 124). The threads 138 of the implant stem 102 may be complementary to the threads 134 of the sensor assembly 104. In this manner, the threads 138 of the implant stem 102 and the threads 134 of the sensor assembly 104 may couple the implant stem 102 and the sensor assembly 104.

[0023] For example, a tool can engage the mechanical interface 132 of the sensor assembly 104 to rotate the sensor assembly 104 clockwise about the central axis CAs, and can engage the threads 134 of the sensor assembly 104 and the threads 138 of the implant stem 102 to couple the sensor assembly 104 and the implant stem 102. A tool can also engage the mechanical interface 132 of the sensor assembly 104 to rotate the sensor assembly 104 counterclockwise about the central axis CAs to decouple the sensor assembly 104 and the implant stem 102.

[0024] 5 and 6 are discussed together. FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a first sensor assembly 500. FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a second sensor assembly 600. The first sensor assembly 500 can be, for example, the sensor assembly 104 (FIGS. 1 and 4) or any other sensor that can be inserted into the implant stem 102 (FIGS. 1, 2 and 4) to create the smart implant 100 (FIG. 1). The nose cone 522 of the first sensor assembly 500 can have a diameter D1. The nose cone 522 can include a mechanical interface 532 of size S1. The first sensor assembly 500 can include a thread 534 and the second sensor assembly 600 can include a thread 634.

[0025] The second sensor 600 can be, for example, the sensor assembly 104 or any other sensor that can be inserted into a larger off-the-shelf sized implant stem 102 to create a smart implant 100. The nose cone 622 of the second sensor assembly 600 can have a diameter D2. The nose cone 622 can include a mechanical interface 632 of size S2.

[0026] In a first embodiment, diameter D1 of nose cone 522 may be smaller than diameter D2 of nose cone 622. In a second embodiment, diameter D1 of nose cone 522 may be larger than diameter D2 of nose cone 622. In a first embodiment, size S1 of mechanical interface 532 may be smaller than size S2 of mechanical interface 632. In a second embodiment, size S1 of mechanical interface 532 may be larger than size S2 of mechanical interface 632.

[0027] 7 shows a schematic diagram of a system 700 including a first plurality of stems 702 and a second plurality of stems 704. The first plurality of stems 702 may be a plurality of implant stems (e.g., may include implant stems 102). The second plurality of stems 704 may be a plurality of implant stems (e.g., may include implant stems 102). The diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stems 102 of the first plurality of stems 702 may be smaller than the diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stems 102 of the second plurality of stems 702. The first plurality of stems 702 may have a different stock size than the second plurality of stems 704 and may generally be relatively smaller, including in diameter. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0028] 7, the first plurality of stems 702 can be configured to accommodate the first sensor assembly 500. The diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the first plurality of stems 702 can be similar to the diameter D1 of the nose cone 522 of the first sensor assembly 500. Because the diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the first plurality of stems 702 and the diameter D1 of the nose cone 522 of the first sensor assembly 500 can be similar, when the first sensor assembly 500 is installed within any of the implant stems 102 of the first plurality of stems 702, there is a minimal step in the transition from the nose cone 522 to the first end 110 of the implant stem 102.

[0029] The second plurality of stems 704 can be configured to accommodate the second sensor assembly 600. The diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the second plurality of stems 704 can be similar to the diameter D2 of the nose cone 622 of the second sensor assembly 600. Because the diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the second plurality of stems 704 and the diameter D2 of the nose cone 622 of the second sensor assembly 600 can be similar, when the second sensor assembly 600 is installed within any of the implant stems 102 of the second plurality of stems 704, there is a minimal step in the transition from the nose cone 622 to the first end 110 of the implant stem 102.

[0030] The system 700 may include a tool 706 having a first end 708 opposite a second end 710. The first end 708 may include a first mechanical interface 712. The first end 708 may be configured to engage a mechanical interface (e.g., mechanical interface 532) that is a size S1. In this manner, the first end 708 of the tool 706 may be used to couple or decouple the first sensor assembly 500 to the implant stems 102 of the first plurality of stems 702.

[0031] The second end 710 can include a second mechanical interface 714. The second end 710 can be configured to engage a mechanical interface (e.g., mechanical interface 632) that is a size S2. In this manner, the second end 710 of the tool 706 can be used to couple or decouple the second sensor assembly 600 to the implant stems 102 of the second plurality of stems 704.

[0032] 7, the system 700 may include a first sensor assembly 500 and a second sensor assembly 600. In another embodiment, the system 700 may include either the first sensor assembly 500 or the second sensor assembly 600. In some embodiments, the system 700 may include only the first sensor assembly 500. However, if the system 700 includes only the first sensor assembly 500, a large step may occur between the nose cone 522 of the first sensor assembly 500 and the diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the second plurality of stems 704.

[0033] In other embodiments, the system 700 may include only the second sensor assembly 600. However, if the system 700 includes only the second sensor assembly 600, a large step may occur between the nose cone 622 of the second sensor assembly 600 and the diameter 130 of the elongate body of the implant stem 102 of the first plurality of stems 702.

[0034] 8 shows a schematic diagram of a smart implant 100 and a sizing fixture 800. The sizing fixture 800 includes a plurality of sizing holes (hereinafter referred to as "sizing holes 802"). Each sizing hole 802 can correspond to at least one of the diameters 130 of the elongate body of any of the implant stems 102 of the system 700 (FIG. 7). The sizing holes 802 can be configured to accommodate the elongate body 114 of at least one implant stem 102 of the system 700.

[0035] The sizing fixture 800 can be configured to hold the implant stem 102 while the second implant component 106 ( FIG. 1 ) is mated into the attachment feature 128 ( FIG. 1 ) on the second end 112 ( FIG. 1 ) of the implant stem 102. The mating of the second implant component 106 and the attachment feature 128 of the implant stem 102 can expose the implant stem 102 to stresses. Moreover, if the sensor assembly 104 is attached within the implant stem 102 during the mating process, the sensor assembly 104 can be damaged.

[0036] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of an implant plug 900. Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the implant plug 900 from Figure 9 installed within the implant stem 102. Figures 9 and 10 will be discussed together.

[0037] The implant plug 900 may include a nose cone 902 and a rod 904. The nose cone 902 of the implant plug 900 may include a mechanical interface 906. The rod 904 may extend from the nose cone 902. The rod 904 of the implant plug 900 can be configured to fit within the cavity 116 of the implant stem 102.

[0038] The mechanical interface 906 can be configured to be engaged by a tool 706 (FIG. 7). The mechanical interface 906 can be either a size S1 or a size S2. The mechanical interface 906 can be configured to rotate the implant plug 900 about its central axis CAp when engaged by a tool (e.g., tool 706). As described above, the inner surface 136 of the implant stem 102 can include threads 138. As shown in FIG. 9, the rod 904 can include an outer surface 908 having threads 910 formed thereon. The threads 910 on the rod 904 of the implant plug 900 can be complementary to the threads 138 on the inner surface 136 of the implant stem 102. In this manner, the implant plug 900 can be coupled to and decoupled from the implant stem 102. When the implant plug 900 is coupled to the implant stem 102, the nose cone 902 can form one end of the implant stem 102.

[0039] As discussed above, the sizing fixture 800 (FIG. 8) can be configured to hold the implant stem 102 while the second implant component 106 (FIG. 1) is engaged into the attachment feature 128 (FIG. 1) on the second end 112 (FIG. 1) of the implant stem 102. The engagement of the second implant component 106 and the attachment feature 128 of the implant stem 102 can subject the implant stem 102 to stress. As shown in FIG. 10, an implant plug 900 can be coupled to the implant stem 102. A tool (e.g., tool 706 (FIG. 7)) can be used to engage the mechanical interface 906 of the implant plug 900. The tool can rotate the implant plug 900 clockwise about the central axis CAp, which causes the threads 910 on the rod 904 to engage the threads 138 on the inner surface 136 of the implant stem 102, thereby coupling the implant plug 900 to the implant stem 102. When the implant plug 900 is coupled to the implant stem 102, the implant plug 900 can help protect the implant stem 102 during sizing and fitting within the sizing fixture 800. After fitting, the implant plug 900 can be uncoupled from the implant stem 102 by using a tool 706 to engage a mechanical interface 906 of the implant plug 900 to rotate the implant plug 900 counterclockwise about a central axis CAp of the implant plug 900.

[0040] In embodiments, the implant plug 900 may be made of titanium, steel, copper, nickel, carbon fiber, polymers, and any alloy or composite thereof, or any other material that can be machined to form an implant plug.

[0041] In one embodiment, the system 700 may include one of the implant plugs 900 that may be coupled to any of the implant stems 102 of the system 700. In another embodiment, the system 700 may include one of the implant plugs 900 coupled to the implant stems 102 of the system 700. When the implant plug 900 is coupled to the implant stem 102, the implant plug 900 may retain the shape of the implant stem without the cavity. Thus, the implant plug 900 may be installed within the implant stem 102 to allow the implant stem 102 to be inserted into the human body without the sensor assembly 104.

[0042] 11 illustrates one embodiment of an implant plug 1100. The implant plug 1100 may be insertable into a humeral stem (e.g., implant stem 102 of FIG. 1) for the purpose of protecting the humeral stem during engagement of the stem with a second implant component (e.g., second implant component 106 from FIG. 1). The implant plug 1100 may include an expander plug 1110, an expander wedge 1120, and an expander screw 1130.

[0043] In embodiments, the expander plug 1110 can be made of titanium, stainless steel, ceramic, any other biocompatible material, etc. The expander plug 1110 can include a hollow head 1150 and at least two expanding walls (expanding walls 1160). In embodiments, the expander plug 1110 can be a monolithic component. In another embodiment, the expander plug 1110 can be a composite material with the hollow head 1150 made of a first material and the expanding walls 1160 made of a second material.

[0044] The hollow head 1150 can define a portion of a channel 1170. The channel 1170 can be internal to the implant plug 1100. The hollow head 1150 can have a larger diameter than any other portion of the implant plug 1100 such that when the implant plug 1100 is installed within the cavity of the humeral stem, the hollow head 1150 engages the humeral stem. In an embodiment, the outer contour of the hollow head 1150 can match the curvature of the humeral stem such that there is no change in diameter between the portion of the hollow head 1150 adjacent the humeral stem and the humeral stem adjacent the installed expander plug 1110.

[0045] The expansion wall 1160 can be configured to expand and retract to change the diameter of the implant plug 1100. The expansion wall 1160 can retract to allow for insertion or removal of the implant plug 1100 into the cavity of the humeral stem. The expansion wall 1160 can expand to couple the implant plug 1100 to the humeral stem. The expansion wall 1160 can include a distal portion 1180. In one embodiment, the expansion wall 1160 can have a rest position that is smaller than the cavity of the humeral stem such that the expansion wall 1160 has clearance within the cavity of the humeral stem. Thus, the expansion wall 1160 can return to the rest position after the expander wedge 1120 is removed from the expander plug 1110.

[0046] The expander wedge 1120 can be configured to engage a distal portion 1180 of the expansion wall 1160 to expand or retract the expansion wall 1160. As shown in FIG. 11, the expander wedge 1120 can be a cylindrical body with a wedge formed on one end. The expander wedge 1120 can define a portion of the channel 1170. In some embodiments, the expander wedge 1120 can include a threaded inner surface 1190 (shown in dashed lines).

[0047] The expander screw 1130 can be configured to extend within the channel 1170 to actuate the implant plug 1100 to interact with the expander wedge 1120 to expand or retract the expander plug 1110. In some embodiments, the expander screw 1130 can include a head 1200 and a stem 1210. The head 1200 can have a wider diameter than the stem 1210 such that the head 1200 engages the hollow head 1150 when the expander screw 1130 is inserted into the channel 1170. The stem 1210 can include a threaded surface 1220 (shown in dashed lines).

[0048] In one operational example, the threaded inner surface 1190 of the expander wedge 1120 and the threaded surface 1220 on the stem 1210 of the expander screw 1130 are complementary, such that when the expander screw 1130 is rotated clockwise, the threads (e.g., the threaded inner surface 1190 and the threaded surface 1220) pull the expander wedge 1120 toward the head 1200 of the expander screw 1130, causing the expander wedge 1120 to engage the distal portions 1180 of the at least two expansion walls 1160 and move the at least two expansion walls 1160 radially outward.

[0049] In another example operation, the threaded inner surface 1190 of the expander wedge 1120 and the threaded surface 1220 on the stem 1210 of the expander screw 1130 are complementary, such that when the expander screw 1130 is rotated counterclockwise, the threads (e.g., the threaded inner surface 1190 and the threaded surface 1220) push the expander wedge 1120 away from the head 1200 of the expander screw 1130, causing the expander wedge 1120 to disengage from the distal portions 1180 of the at least two expansion walls 1160 and move the at least two expansion walls 1160 radially inward.

[0050] In an embodiment, the expander plug 1110 can be made of titanium, stainless steel, any other biocompatible material, etc. The expander plug 1110 can then be mounted in the patient's bone using a humeral stem. Here, the system (e.g., system 100) can be delivered to the surgeon with the expander plug 1110 mounted in the cavity of each of the stems. The surgeon can then decide to remove the expander plug 1110 and insert the sensor assembly into the humeral stem during surgery.

[0051] One embodiment of a sensor assembly and humeral stem is discussed in Figures 12-14.

[0052] 12 illustrates one embodiment of a sensor assembly 1250. The sensor assembly 1250 can include a sensor housing 1252, a sensor 1254, and an end cap 1256. The sensor assembly 1250 can be fitted within a cavity in the humeral stem to detect movement of the implant after the humeral stem is installed within the patient's shoulder.

[0053] The sensor housing 1252 can be sized so that the sensor housing fits inside the cavity of the humeral stem. The sensor housing 1252 can be manufactured from titanium, stainless steel, any other biocompatible material, etc. The sensor housing 1252 can protect the sensor 1254 and can provide support to the cavity of the humeral stem to prevent collapse of the humeral stem.

[0054] The sensor 1254 can be mounted inside the sensor housing 1252. In another embodiment, the sensor 1254 can form the sensor housing 1252 such that the exterior of the sensor 1254 is the sensor housing 1252.

[0055] The end cap 1256 can be attached to the sensor housing 1252. In some embodiments, the end cap 1256 can be removably attached to the sensor housing 1252. When attached onto the sensor housing 1252, the end cap 1256 can form one end of the sensor assembly 1250. The end cap 1256 can include an antenna 1258 and a coupling interface 1260.

[0056] The antenna 1258 can communicatively connect the sensor 1254 to the controller. The antenna 1258 can be integral with the end cap 1256. In an embodiment, the antenna 1258 can be inside the end cap 1256. In another embodiment, the antenna 1258 can be mounted at a location other than the end cap 1256. Here, the antenna 1258 can be mounted inside the sensor housing 1252.

[0057] The mating interface 1260 can interact with a mating receptacle in the cavity of the humeral stem. As shown in FIG. 12, the mating interface 1260 can be a tab extending radially outward from the sensor housing 1252. In another embodiment, the mating interface 1260 can extend radially outward from the end cap 1256. The mating interface 1260 can be a post, a dome, any other protrusion, any other engagable shape that can engage with a mating receptacle in the humeral stem to retain the sensor assembly 1250 within the cavity of the humeral stem, etc. The mating interface 1260 can be positioned around the sensor housing 1252 or the end cap 1256 such that when the mating interface 1260 engages with the mating receptacle in the humeral stem, the sensor 1254 is positioned at a specific location within the cavity of the humeral stem.

[0058] 13 illustrates another embodiment of a stem of the stems, such as the implant stem 102, hereinafter referred to as stem 1300. The stem 1300 can include a docking receptacle 1310 and an alignment indicator 1320.

[0059] The docking receptacle 1310 may be engageable with the docking interface 1260 (FIG. 12) to hold a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 1250) within either of the stems 1300. The docking receptacle 1310 may be a cavity or any other docking feature that can receive or engage with the docking interface 1260. In an embodiment, the docking receptacle 1310 may ensure a specific alignment of the sensor within the humeral stem. For example, the docking receptacle 1310 may maintain the orientation of the sensor assembly within the humeral stem to create a specific alignment between data from various sensors within the humeral stem. The various sensors within the humeral stem may be gyroscopes, accelerometers, etc. Thus, the docking receptacle 1310 can be configured to position the sensor within the humeral stem to control the orientation of the sensor when the implant is installed within a patient's bone.

[0060] The alignment indicator 1320 can mark the location of the mating receptacle 1310 to aid in installation of the sensor assembly and stem 1300. The alignment indicator 1320 can be formed on the exterior surface of the stem 1300. In another embodiment, the alignment indicator 1320 can be a marking or graphic on the exterior surface of the stem 1300. In another embodiment, the stem 1300 can include a poka-yoke graphic to prevent improper installation of the sensor assembly. For example, the opening of the cavity in the stem 1300 can include a notch that allows the mating interface 1260 to slide inside the cavity and engage with the mating receptacle 1310.

[0061] 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an implant 1400. The implant 1400 can include a sensor assembly 1250 and a stem 1300. The sensor assembly 1250 can be mounted inside the stem 1300 such that an end cap 1256 extends outside the stem 1300. Here, the end cap 1256 can form one end of the stem 1300. In another embodiment, the sensor assembly 1250 can be mounted completely inside the stem 1300.

[0062] 15 illustrates an embodiment of an implant 1500. The implant 1500 may include a stem 1502 and a sensor assembly 1510. The sensor assembly 1510 may be mountable within the stem 1502. For example, the sensor assembly 1510 may be partially mountable such that a portion of the sensor housing 1520 and the end cap 1530 extend outside the stem 1502. Here, the sensor housing 1520, together with the stem 1502, forms part of the shaft of the smart implant 100. Thus, the length of the stem 1502 may be reduced by using the sensor housing 1520 as part of the implant 1500 that interfaces with the patient's bone. In one embodiment, a portion of the sensor housing 1520 may face a portion of the bone, rather than being housed within the stem 1502.

[0063] To support the sensor assembly 1510, the stem 1502 may include an axially extending tapered edge 1540 for supporting the sensor assembly 1510 within the stem 1502. The additional support provided by the tapered edge 1540 helps support the sensor assembly 1510 when the implant 1500 is installed within a patient's bone. For example, the implant 1500 can be installed within a reamed portion of a humerus, femur, or the like.

[0064] 16 and 17 are discussed together below. FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of an implant 1600. FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of the implant 1600 with a tool 1700 engaged. The implant 1600 can include a stem 1602 and a sensor assembly 1610. The stem 1602 can include a cavity 1604 formed therein. The stem 1602 can also include a tapered portion 1606 formed on a distal portion of the cavity 1604. The cavity 1604 can house the sensor assembly 1610. The sensor assembly 1610 can include a sensor housing 1612 and an end cap 1614. The sensor housing 1612 can include a protrusion 1616 extending radially outward from the sensor housing 1612.

[0065] The sensor assembly 1610 is mountable within the stem 1602 such that at least a portion of the sensor housing 1612 and the end cap 1614 extend axially outside the stem 1602. The protrusion 1616 is positionable on the sensor housing 1612 such that the protrusion 1616 contacts the tapered portion 1606 when the sensor assembly 1610 is mounted within the cavity 1604 of the stem 1602. The protrusion 1616 helps distribute forces from the sensor assembly 1610 to the stem 1602. Thus, the protrusion 1616 helps protect the sensor housing 1612 from stress during installation of the implant 1600 within the patient's bone.

[0066] As discussed above, the surface of the stem 1602 and the surface of the sensor assembly 1610 may include complementary threads to removably attach the sensor assembly 1610 to the stem 1602. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the threads may be configured to removably couple the sensor assembly 1610 to the stem 1602 by clockwise rotation of the sensor assembly 1610 within the stem 1602. In another embodiment, the threads may be configured to removably couple the sensor assembly 1610 to the stem 1602 by counterclockwise rotation of the sensor assembly 1610 within the stem 1602. In yet another embodiment, another removable coupling mechanism may be used as the interface between the stem 1602 and the sensor assembly 1610. For example, a retaining ring, pin, set screw, or the like may be utilized to secure the sensor assembly 1610 within the stem 1602. In some embodiments, a tool 1700 can be used to engage the protrusions 1616 to attach or remove the sensor assembly 1610 from the stem 1602. As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the tool 1700 can have a notch to receive the protrusions 1616 and can engage the protrusions 1616 upon rotation of the tool 1700.

[0067] (Example) The following non-limiting examples detail certain aspects of the present subject matter that, among other things, solve the problems and provide the benefits discussed herein.

[0068] Example 1 is a system configured for implantation into a human body, the system including a plurality of stems, each having a different size from the others, configured for insertion into a patient's bone, and each having an elongated body including a cavity with an opening at one end, and a sensor assembly configured to be removably coupled to one or more of the plurality of stems, the sensor assembly including a sensor configured for insertion within the cavity, and a nose cone extending from the sensor and protruding from the cavity, covering the opening when the sensor assembly is coupled to one of the plurality of stems.

[0069] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes that each stem of the plurality of stems includes an attachment mechanism formed in the elongate body opposite the cavity, the attachment mechanism being configured to accommodate a second implant component.

[0070] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally includes, wherein the cavity of each stem of the plurality of stems further includes an interior surface having threads formed thereon adjacent an opening of the cavity of each stem of the plurality of stems.

[0071] In Example 4, the subject matter of Example 3 optionally includes that the sensor assembly includes a sensor housing having a sensor therein, the sensor housing configured to be inserted within a cavity in the elongated body of one or more of the plurality of stems.

[0072] In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 4 optionally includes that the sensor housing includes an exterior surface having a thread, the thread on the exterior surface of the sensor assembly being complementary to threads formed on the interior surfaces of the cavities of the multiple stems, and the sensor assembly is configured to be screwed into the cavities of one or more of the multiple stems.

[0073] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 optionally includes the system including a first sensor assembly of a first size and a second sensor assembly of a second size, a nose cone of the first sensor assembly having a first diameter and a nose cone of the second sensor assembly having a second diameter.

[0074] In Example 7, the subject matter of Example 6 optionally includes a first group of a plurality of stems and a second group of a plurality of stems, each stem of the first group of a plurality of stems having a smaller outer diameter than each stem of the second group of a plurality of stems, and at least a first sensor assembly configured to couple with the first group of a plurality of stems and at least a second sensor assembly configured to couple with the second group of a plurality of stems.

[0075] In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 optionally includes an implant plug including a nose cone and a rod extending from the nose cone, the rod having threads formed on an outer surface that are complementary to threads formed on an inner surface of a cavity of each stem of the plurality of stems, the implant plug forming an end of each stem of the plurality of stems when mounted within each stem of the plurality of stems, and the implant plug configured to provide structural support during assembly of a second implant component with each stem of the plurality of stems when mounted within each stem of the plurality of stems.

[0076] In Example 9, the subject matter of Example 8 optionally includes a sizing fixture having a plurality of holes, each hole of the plurality of holes corresponding to at least one of the outer diameters of the elongated body of at least one of the plurality of stems, each hole of the plurality of holes in the sizing fixture configured to receive the elongated body of at least one of the plurality of stems and to hold the at least one stem of the plurality of stems while the second implant component is engaged within the attachment mechanism.

[0077] In Example 10, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1 to 9 optionally further includes an implant plug assembly including an expander plug having a hollow head defining a portion of a channel within the implant plug assembly and an expander wall extending from the hollow head and including a distal portion, an expander wedge defining a portion of a channel within the implant plug assembly and having a threaded inner surface, and an expander screw having a head and a stem extending from the head, extending through the channel within the implant plug assembly and including a threaded surface.

[0078] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 optionally includes that the threaded surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary such that, when the expander screw is rotated clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw and the expander wedge engages a distal portion of the expansion wall causing the expansion wall to move radially outward.

[0079] In Example 12, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 10 to 11 optionally includes a threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and a threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw that are complementary such that, when the expander screw is rotated counterclockwise, the threaded surfaces urge the expander wedge away from the head of the expander screw, causing the expander wedge to disengage from a distal portion of the expansion wall and move the expansion wall radially inward.

[0080] In Example 13, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1 to 12 optionally includes that the sensor assembly includes a sensor housing having a coupling interface and a sensor at least partially mounted within the sensor housing, the cavity of each humeral stem includes a coupling receptacle that is complementary to the coupling interface of the sensor housing such that the sensor assembly can be removably mounted to each humeral stem, and the sensor housing forms an end of the implant when coupled to the humerus.

[0081] In Example 14, the subject matter of Example 13 optionally includes the humeral stem including an alignment mark indicating the location of the docking receptacle.

[0082] In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1 to 14, optionally further comprising an antenna within the nose cone, the antenna in electrical communication with the sensor.

[0083] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 3 to 15 optionally further includes an implant plug including a nose cone and a rod extending from the nose cone, the rod having threads formed on an outer surface that are complementary to threads formed on an inner surface of a cavity of each stem of the plurality of stems, wherein the implant plug forms an end of each stem of the plurality of stems when mounted within each stem of the plurality of stems, and wherein the implant plug is configured to provide structural support during assembly of each stem of the plurality of stems with a second implant component when mounted within each stem of the plurality of stems, and wherein the nose cone of the implant plug and the nose cone of the sensor assembly include a mechanical interface configured to assist in rotating the implant plug and the sensor assembly about their central axes to mount or remove the implant plug or the sensor assembly within any one of the plurality of stems.

[0084] In Example 17, the subject matter of Example 16 optionally includes a tool configured to engage with the mechanical interface to remove and install the implant plug and sensor assembly within the cavity extending through the distal portion of any of the multiple stems.

[0085] Example 18 is an implant insertable into a patient's shoulder, comprising: a joint interface; and a humeral stem coupled to the joint interface, the humeral stem including an elongated body with a distal portion, a cavity extending through the distal portion and into the elongated body, and an attachment mechanism on an opposite end of the humeral stem from the cavity, the attachment mechanism configured to accommodate the joint interface.

[0086] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally includes an implant plug having a cylindrical body extending between a first end and a second end, a nose cone extending from the first end of the cylindrical body, and a shaft extending from the second end of the cylindrical body, the cavity in the humeral stem and the shaft of the implant plug having complementary threads such that the implant plug can be removably attached to the humeral stem, and the nose cone forms an end of the implant when the implant plug is coupled to the humeral stem.

[0087] In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 19 optionally includes a sensor assembly including a sensor housing, a nose cone extending from the sensor housing, and a sensor at least partially mounted within the sensor housing, the cavity in the humeral stem and the sensor housing having complementary threads such that the sensor assembly can be removably mounted to the humeral stem, and the nose cone of the sensor assembly forms an end of the implant when the sensor housing is coupled to the humeral stem.

[0088] In Example 21, the subject matter of Example 20 optionally includes that at least a portion of the sensor housing and the nose cone extend outside the humeral stem, and a distal portion of the humeral stem includes a tapered surface tapering toward the cavity of the humeral stem.

[0089] In Example 22, the subject matter of Example 21 optionally includes that the sensor housing includes a protrusion extending radially outward from the sensor housing, the protrusion being positioned on the sensor housing to contact a distal portion of the humeral stem when the sensor housing is mounted within the cavity of the humeral stem.

[0090] In Example 23, the subject matter of Example 22 optionally includes, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage a tool to install and remove the sensor assembly from the cavity of the humeral stem.

[0091] In Example 24, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 23 optionally includes, wherein the sensor includes an antenna mounted inside the nose cone.

[0092] In Example 25, the subject matter of Example 24 optionally includes that the nose cone of the implant plug and the nose cone of the sensor assembly include a mechanical interface configured to assist in rotating the implant plug and the sensor assembly about their central axes to facilitate coupling or uncoupling of the nose cone of the implant plug and the nose cone of the sensor assembly from the humeral stem.

[0093] In Example 26, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 18 to 25 optionally includes an implant plug assembly including an expander plug having a hollow head defining a portion of a channel within the implant plug assembly and an expander wall extending from the hollow head and including a distal portion, an expander wedge defining a portion of a channel within the implant plug assembly and including a threaded inner surface, and an expander screw including a head and a stem extending from the head, extending through the channel within the implant plug assembly and including a threaded surface.

[0094] In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 optionally includes, wherein the threaded surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and when the expander screw is rotated clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, and the expander wedge engages a distal portion of the expansion wall to move the expansion wall radially outward.

[0095] In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 26 to 27 optionally includes, wherein the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and when the expander screw is rotated counterclockwise, the threaded surface pushes the expander wedge away from the head of the expander screw, causing the expander wedge to disengage from a distal portion of the expansion wall and move the expansion wall radially inward.

[0096] In Example 29, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 18 to 28 optionally includes a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly including a sensor housing having a coupling interface and a sensor at least partially mounted within the sensor housing, a cavity in the humeral stem including a coupling receptacle that is complementary to the coupling interface of the sensor housing such that the sensor assembly can be removably mounted to the humeral stem, and the sensor housing forms one end of the implant when coupled to the humeral stem.

[0097] In Example 30, the subject matter of Example 29 optionally includes, wherein the humeral stem includes an alignment mark indicating the location of the docking receptacle.

[0098] Example 31 is an apparatus including means for implementing any of examples 1 to 30.

[0099] Example 32 is a system for implementing any of Examples 1 to 30.

[0100] Example 33 is a method for implementing any of examples 1 to 30.

[0101] In Example 34, the apparatus or method of any one of Examples 1 to 30 or any combination thereof can be optionally configured such that all of the listed elements or options are available for use or selection.

[0102] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, for illustrative purposes, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown and described are provided. Moreover, the inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those illustrated or described elements (or one or more aspects thereof) with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof) or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0103] In the event of a conflict of usage between this specification and any document so incorporated by reference, the usage in this specification will control. In this specification, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain English equivalents of the terms "comprising" and "wherein," respectively. Similarly, in the claims that follow, "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, i.e., systems, devices, articles, compositions, formulations, or processes that include elements in addition to the elements recited after such term in the claim are still deemed to be within the scope of that claim.

[0104] As used herein, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, regardless of any other instance or usage of "'' or "one or more." As used herein, the term "or" is used to mean a non-exclusive or, thus, unless otherwise indicated, "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B." As used herein, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Similarly, in the following claims, "including" and "comprising" are open ended, i.e., systems, devices, articles, compositions, formulations, or processes that include elements in addition to the elements recited after such terms in the claim are still deemed to be within the scope of the claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the words "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0105] The above description is intended to be illustrative, not limiting. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art may use other embodiments upon review of the above description. The Abstract is provided in accordance with 37 C.FR §1.72(b) to enable the reader to quickly ascertain the contents of the technical disclosure. The Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Similarly, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to simplify the disclosure. This should not be construed as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may be present in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, it is contemplated that the following claims are herein incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. 1. A system adapted for implantation into a human body, comprising: a plurality of stems, each of said stems having a different size from one another and each of said stems having an elongated body configured for insertion into a bone of a patient, said stems including a cavity having an opening at an end; a sensor assembly configured to releasably couple to one or more of the stems, the sensor assembly comprising: a sensor configured for insertion within the cavity; the sensor assembly including: a nose cone extending from the sensor and projecting from the cavity and covering the opening when the sensor assembly is coupled to one of the stems; A system comprising:

2. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the stems of the plurality of stems includes an attachment mechanism formed in the elongate body opposite the cavity, the attachment mechanism configured to receive a second implant component.

3. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the cavity of each of the stems of the plurality of stems further includes an interior surface having threads formed thereon adjacent the opening of the cavity of each of the stems of the plurality of stems.

4. The sensor assembly includes:

4. The system of claim 3, comprising a sensor housing having the sensor therein, the sensor housing configured to be inserted within the cavity of the elongated body of one or more of the stems.

5. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the sensor housing includes an exterior surface having a thread, the thread of the exterior surface of the sensor assembly being complementary to the thread formed on the interior surface of the cavity of the plurality of stems, and the sensor assembly is configured to be threaded into the interior of the cavity of one or more of the plurality of stems.

6. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the system includes a first sensor assembly of a first size and a second sensor assembly of a second size, the nosecone of the first sensor assembly having a first diameter and the nosecone of the second sensor assembly having a second diameter.

7. a first group of a plurality of said stems; a second group of the stems, each of the stems in the first group of the stems having a smaller outer diameter than each of the stems in the second group of the stems; Further comprising: At least the first sensor assembly is configured to couple with the first group of the plurality of stems, and at least the second sensor assembly is configured to couple with the second group of the plurality of stems. The system of claim 6.

8. An implant plug, comprising: Nose cone and a rod extending from the nosecone, the rod having threads formed on an outer surface thereof that are complementary to the threads formed on the inner surface of the cavity of each of the stems of the plurality of stems; and wherein the implant plug further comprises:

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the implant plug forms an end of each of the stems of the plurality of stems when attached within the stem, and the implant plug is configured to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component with each of the stems of the plurality of stems when attached within the stem.

9. a sizing fixture having a plurality of holes, each of the plurality of holes corresponding to at least one of the outer diameters of the elongate body of at least one of the stems; Further comprising:

9. The system of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of holes in the sizing fixture is configured to receive the elongated body of at least one of the plurality of stems and retain the at least one of the plurality of stems while the second implant component is fitted within the attachment mechanism.

10. 1. An implant plug assembly comprising:

1. An expander plug, comprising: a hollow head defining a portion of a channel within said implant plug assembly; an extension wall extending from the hollow head and including a distal portion; the expander plug having an expander wedge defining a portion of the channel within the implant plug assembly and having a threaded interior surface; An expander screw, Head and a stem extending from the head and extending through the channel within the implant plug assembly and including a threaded surface; The expander screw having The system of claim 1 , further comprising the implant plug assembly comprising:

11. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the threaded interior surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and when the expander screw is rotated clockwise, the threaded surfaces pull the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw and the expander wedge engages the distal portion of the expansion wall causing the expansion wall to move radially outward.

12. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the threaded interior surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and when the expander screw is rotated counterclockwise, the threaded surfaces push the expander wedge away from the head of the expander screw, causing the expander wedge to disengage from the distal portion of the expansion wall and move the expansion wall radially inward.

13. The sensor assembly includes: a sensor housing having a mating interface; the sensor mounted at least partially within the sensor housing; Including, the cavity of each of the stems of the plurality of stems includes a mating receptacle that is complementary to the mating interface of the sensor housing such that the sensor assembly can be removably attached to each of the stems of the plurality of stems; the sensor housing, when coupled to any one of the stems, forms an end of the system; The system of claim 1 .

14. The system of claim 13 , wherein each of the stems of the plurality of stems includes an alignment mark indicating a location of the mating receptacle.

15. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an antenna internal to the nose cone, the antenna in communication with the sensor.

16. An implant plug, comprising: Nose cone and a rod extending from the nosecone, the rod having threads formed on an outer surface thereof that are complementary to the threads formed on the inner surface of the cavity of each of the stems of the plurality of stems; and wherein the implant plug further comprises the implant plug forms an end of each of the stems when mounted within the stem of the plurality of stems, and the implant plug is configured to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component with each of the stems when the second implant component is mounted within the stem of the plurality of stems; 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the nose cone of the implant plug and the nose cone of the sensor assembly include a mechanical interface configured to assist in rotating the implant plug and the sensor assembly about their central axes to attach or remove the implant plug or the sensor assembly within any one of the stems.

17. 17. The system of claim 16, further comprising a tool configured to engage the mechanical interface to remove and install the implant plug and the sensor assembly within the cavity extending through a distal portion of any of the plurality of stems.

18. 1. An implant insertable into a patient's shoulder, comprising: A joint interface; A humeral stem coupled to the joint interface, an elongate body having a distal portion; a cavity extending through the distal portion into the elongate body; the humeral stem including an attachment mechanism at an end of the humeral stem opposite the cavity, the attachment mechanism configured to receive the joint interface; An implant comprising:

19. An implant plug, comprising: a cylindrical body extending between a first end and a second end; a nosecone extending from the first end of the cylindrical body; a shaft extending from the second end of the cylindrical body; and and further comprising an implant plug having the cavity within the humeral stem and the shaft of the implant plug have complementary threads such that the implant plug can be removably attached to the humeral stem; the nosecone forms an end of the implant when the implant plug is coupled to the humeral stem.

20. The implant of claim 18.

20. Further comprising a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly comprising: A sensor housing; a nose cone extending from the sensor housing; a sensor at least partially mounted within the sensor housing; the cavity within the humeral stem and the sensor housing have complementary threads for removably mounting the sensor assembly to the humeral stem; the nosecone of the sensor assembly forms an end of the implant when the sensor housing is coupled to the humeral stem.

20. The implant of claim 19.

21. 21. The implant of claim 20, wherein at least a portion of the sensor housing and the nosecone extend outside the humeral stem, and the distal portion of the humeral stem includes a tapered surface tapering toward the cavity of the humeral stem.

22. 22. The implant of claim 21, wherein the sensor housing includes a protrusion extending radially outward from the sensor housing, the protrusion being positioned on the sensor housing such that the protrusion contacts the distal portion of the humeral stem when the sensor housing is mounted within the cavity of the humeral stem.

23. 23. The implant of claim 22, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage a tool for installing or removing the sensor assembly from the cavity of the humeral stem.

24. 21. The implant of claim 20, wherein the sensor includes an antenna mounted inside the nosecone.

25. 25. The implant of claim 24, wherein the nosecone of the implant plug and the nosecone of the sensor assembly include a mechanical interface configured to assist in rotating the implant plug and the sensor assembly about their central axes to facilitate coupling or decoupling of the nosecone of the implant plug and the nosecone of the sensor assembly from the humeral stem.

26. 1. An expander plug, comprising: a hollow head defining a portion of a channel within the implant plug assembly; an extension wall extending from the hollow head and including a distal portion; the expander plug having an expander wedge defining a portion of the channel within the implant plug assembly and including a threaded interior surface; An expander screw, Head and a stem extending from the head and extending through the channel within the implant plug assembly, the stem including a threaded surface; The expander screw including:

20. The implant of claim 18, further comprising the implant plug assembly comprising:

27. 27. The implant of claim 26, wherein the threaded surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and when the expander screw is rotated clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, and the expander wedge engages the distal portion of the expansion wall and moves the expansion wall radially outward.

28. 27. The implant of claim 26, wherein the threaded interior surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and when the expander screw is rotated counterclockwise, the threaded surfaces urge the expander wedge away from the head of the expander screw, causing the expander wedge to disengage from the distal portion of the expansion wall and move the expansion wall radially inward.

29. Further comprising a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly comprising: a sensor housing having a mating interface; a sensor mounted at least partially within the sensor housing; Including, the cavity within the humeral stem includes a mating receptacle that is complementary to the mating interface of the sensor housing such that the sensor assembly is removably mountable to the humeral stem; the sensor housing, when coupled to the humeral stem, forms an end of the implant.

20. The implant of claim 18.

30. 30. The implant of claim 29, wherein the humeral stem includes alignment marks indicating the location of the docking receptacle.

Images