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] (Claim of Priority) This patent application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 319,552, filed Mar. 14, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 409,388, filed Sep. 23, 2022, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Background Art

[0002] The shoulder joint is a complex joint that, at least in a properly functioning joint, allows the scapula, clavicle, and humerus to work together to enable a wide range of movement. In a properly functioning shoulder joint, the humeral head typically fits within a shallow socket in the scapula, typically referred to as the glenoid fossa. The articulation of the shoulder joint involves the movement of the humeral head within the glenoid fossa, and the structure of the mating surfaces and surrounding tissues provides a wide range of mobility.

[0003] The shoulder joint can be subject to degenerative changes resulting from various problems such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, avascular necrosis, or fractures. In cases where significant joint damage occurs and no other effective treatment options are found, total, partial, or reverse shoulder replacement or reconstruction may be necessary. Total shoulder replacement may involve a humeral prosthesis that includes a stem and head portion used to replace the natural humeral head. Total shoulder replacement typically also includes, similarly, resurfacing of the glenoid fossa with a prosthetic implant. Glenoid implants generally will include an articulating cup shaped to accommodate the prosthetic humeral head. Reverse shoulder replacement (arthroplasty) involves a different set of humeral and glenoid replacement prostheses. In reverse shoulder replacement, a spherical glenoid component is used to provide an articular surface for the humeral cup, while the humeral component includes a cup-shaped articular surface attached to a stem implanted within the humerus.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In drawings that are not necessarily drawn to actual size, similar numbers may depict similar components in different drawings. Similar numbers with different subscripts may represent different instances of similar components. Drawings generally illustrate, but not limited to, various embodiments discussed herein. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0005] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a smart implant placed inside the human body. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of multiple stems. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the sensor assembly. [Figure 4] Figure 4 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the sensor assembly mounted within the implant stem. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the first sensor assembly. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of the second sensor assembly. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of a system including a first set of stems and a second set of stems. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the implant and sizing fixture. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the implant plug. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the implant plug installed inside the implant stem. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows another embodiment of the implant plug. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows another embodiment of the sensor assembly. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows another embodiment of one of the multiple stems. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the sensor assembly from Figure 12, which is mounted inside multiple stems from Figure 13. [Figure 15]Figure 15 shows another embodiment of multiple stems with a sensor assembly mounted inside. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows another embodiment of the sensor assembly being mounted in a different embodiment of multiple stems. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows the sensor assembly of Figure 16 mounted within the multiple stems of Figure 16. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] This disclosure generally relates to a system (hereinafter referred to as the "System") configured to be implanted in the human body. The System may include a plurality of implant stems (hereinafter referred to as the "Implant Stems"). The Implant Stems may be of different sizes (e.g., different diameters around the Implant Stem). The System may include a large number of Implant Stems, each of which is different in size from the others. Although described in relation to a system for shoulder joint formation, the device and System can be used for implants in other joints, such as stems for the knee, hip, etc.

[0007] The system may also include a sensor assembly that can be inserted into any one of the implant stems. The sensor assembly may include multiple different types of sensors capable of recording and storing information (e.g., accelerometers, gyroscopes, piezoelectric sensors, or a combination thereof, including any other sensors that can be used to detect movement within the body). The sensor assembly may also include an antenna that can communicate the stored information to an external controller. The sensor assembly may include a nose cone having one diameter. In another embodiment, the system may include a number of sensor assemblies. Each of the number of sensor assemblies may have a nose cone having a different diameter.

[0008] The system may also include at least one implant plug (hereinafter referred to as "implant plug") that can be attached to 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 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 an implant stem, the implant plug can define the shape of an implant plug without a cavity for the sensor. Thus, the implant plug can allow an implant stem with a cavity to be inserted into the patient's body without a sensor.

[0009] The system can be shipped to the customer (e.g., surgeon) with the implant plugs already attached to each implant stem, or the system can include a single implant plug that can be fitted into any of the implant stems. Each implant plug can be fitted 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 reamer in the patient's bone. After the implant stem size is confirmed, the customer can use the sizing fixture to attach 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 the modular implant stem can introduce stress and pressure into the implant stem. Furthermore, the ends of the implant stem may come into contact with the sizing fixture during the sizing of the implant stem and the fitting of the second implant component to the implant stem. Therefore, to prevent damage to the sensor and deformation of the implant stem, the implant plug can be installed inside the implant stem before the sizing and insertion process.

[0010] After the second implant component is coupled to the implant stem, the implant plug can be detached from the implant stem, and the sensor assembly can be coupled to the implant stem. The implant stem with the sensor assembly can be implanted in the patient's reamed bone. Once implanted in the patient's body, the sensors of the sensor assembly can be switched on using an external controller, and the sensors can be used to measure or detect various parameters related to the patient's movement. In the embodiment, the parameters captured by the sensors can be analyzed (e.g., by a physician, nurse, or software) to ensure that the patient is achieving fitness goals, such as a desired range of motion for the shoulder. In the embodiment, the parameters captured by the sensors can assist physicians in prescribing physiotherapy to help the patient achieve their shoulder range of motion goals and can be actively used to diagnose shoulder diseases. The system including the implant stem, implant plug, and sensor assembly will be discussed below with reference to Figures 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] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a smart implant 100 implanted in the human body. The smart implant 100 may include an implant stem 102, a sensor assembly 104, a second implant component 106, and a controller 108. The implant stem 102 may include a first end 110 and a second end 112. An elongated body 114 may extend between the first end 110 and the second end 112. The elongated body 114 may include a cavity 116 formed inside. The elongated body 114 may extend from the first end 110 of the implant stem 102 toward the second end 112 of the implant stem 102. The cavity 116 may form an opening 118 at the first end 110 of the implant stem 102.

[0013] The sensor assembly 104 can be configured to fit inside the cavity 116 of the implant stem 102. The sensor assembly 104 may include a sensor 124. The sensor assembly 104 may also include an antenna 126 mounted inside the nose cone 122. The antenna 126 may be in electrical communication with the sensor 124. The sensor assembly 104 will be discussed in more detail below with reference to Figure 3.

[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 can be configured to operate according to a predetermined algorithm or set of instructions for communicating with the smart implant 100. Such an algorithm or set of instructions can be stored in a database, loaded into the memory of the controller 108, or pre-programmed on a storage medium or memory accessible by the controller 108 in the form of, for example, a floppy disk, hard drive, optical medium, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or any other suitable computer-readable storage medium (each referred to as a "database") commonly used in the art that can be in the form of a physical, non-transitory storage medium.

[0015] The controller 108 can be in an electrical communication state with, or connected to, a display (not shown), etc., and various other components, or a number of smart implants such as the smart implant 100. Through such a connection, the controller 108 can receive data regarding rehabilitation or diagnostic data stored in the sensor assembly 104. In response to such an input, the controller 108 makes various decisions and can transmit an output signal corresponding to the result of such a decision or for performing actions that need to be taken, such as alerting the physician about some recommended physical therapy exercises or alerting the physician about some potential diagnosis.

[0016] <000009Controller 108 including a human machine interface may include various output devices, such as a screen, a video display, a monitor, etc., that can be used to display information, warnings, data, such as text, numbers, graphics, icons, etc., regarding the state of the smart implant 100. Controller 108 including a human machine interface may further include a plurality of input interfaces for receiving information and command signals from various sensors associated with the smart implant 100, and a plurality of output interfaces for transmitting control signals to the smart implant 100. Since it is programmed in a suitable form, controller 108 can serve many additional similar or completely different purposes.

[0017] The second end 112 of the implant stem 102 may 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 adapter configured to interact with an opposing implant component (such as a glenoid fossa component). In another example, the second implant component 106 can be a humeral cap configured to interact with an opposing implant component (such as a glenosphere). In yet another example, the second implant component 106 can be a component used in a knee, hip joint or any other joint replacement configured to interact with its respective opposing implant component.

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

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

[0020] In one embodiment, the nose cone 122 may include a mechanical interface 132 and a thread 134. In another embodiment, the nose cone 122 may include a mechanical interface 132, and the sensor housing 120 may include a thread 134. A tool (e.g., the tool 706 first shown in Figure 7) can engage with the mechanical interface 132 to couple the sensor assembly 104 with the implant stem 102, or to discouple the sensor assembly 104 with the implant stem 102. The mechanical interface 132 will be discussed in more detail below.

[0021] Figure 4 schematically shows a 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 inside the cavity 116 of an elongated body 114. When mounted within the first end 110 of the implant stem 102, the 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 similarly include threads 134 (formed, for example, on the sensor housing 120, nose cone 122, or sensor 124). The threads 138 of the implant stem 102 may be complementary to the threads 134 of the sensor assembly 104. Thus, the threads 138 of the implant stem 102 and the threads 134 of the sensor assembly 104 can be coupled together.

[0023] For example, the tool can engage with the mechanical interface 132 of the sensor assembly 104 to rotate the sensor assembly 104 clockwise around the central axis CAs, and can engage with the threads 134 of the sensor assembly 104 and the threads 138 of the implant stem 102 to connect the sensor assembly 104 to the implant stem 102. Similarly, the tool can also engage with the mechanical interface 132 of the sensor assembly 104 to rotate the sensor assembly 104 counterclockwise around the central axis CAs to disconnect the sensor assembly 104 from the implant stem 102.

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

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

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

[0027] Figure 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 include a plurality of implant stems (e.g., implant stem 102). The second plurality of stems 704 may include a plurality of implant stems (e.g., implant stem 102). The diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the first plurality of stems 702 may be smaller than the diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 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 small, including in diameter. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0028] As shown in Figure 7, the first plurality of stems 702 can be configured to house the first sensor assembly 500. The diameter 130 of the elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the first plurality of stems 702 may be similar to the diameter D1 of the nose cone 522 of the first sensor assembly 500. Since 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 may be similar, when the first sensor assembly 500 is mounted in any of the implant stems 102 of the first plurality of stems 702, there is only 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 may be similar to the diameter D2 of the nose cone 622 of the second sensor assembly 600. Since 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 may be similar, when the second sensor assembly 600 is mounted in any of the implant stems 102 of the second plurality of stems 704, there is only a minimal step in the transition portion 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 to the second end 710. The first end 708 may include a first mechanical interface 712. The first end 708 can be configured to engage with a mechanical interface of size S1 (e.g., mechanical interface 532). Thus, the first end 708 of the tool 706 can be used to connect or disconnect the first sensor assembly 500 to the implant stem 102 of the first plurality of stems 702.

[0031] The second end 710 may include a second mechanical interface 714. The second end 710 can be configured to engage with a mechanical interface of size S2 (e.g., mechanical interface 632). Thus, the second end 710 of the tool 706 can be used to connect or disconnect the second sensor assembly 600 and the implant stem 102 of the second plurality of stems 704.

[0032] As shown in Figure 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 the embodiment, 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 elongated body of the implant stem 102 of the first plurality of stems 702.

[0034] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the smart implant 100 and the sizing fixture 800. The sizing fixture 800 includes a plurality of sizing holes (hereinafter referred to as "sizing holes 802"). Each sizing hole 802 may correspond to at least one of the diameters 130 of the elongated body of any implant stem 102 of the system 700 (Figure 7). The sizing holes 802 can be configured to accommodate the elongated 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 (Figure 1) is fitted into the mounting mechanism 128 (Figure 1) on the second end 112 (Figure 1) of the implant stem 102. The fitting of the second implant component 106 and the mounting mechanism 128 of the implant stem 102 may subject the implant stem 102 to stress. Furthermore, if the sensor assembly 104 is mounted inside the implant stem 102 during the fitting process, the sensor assembly 104 may be damaged.

[0036] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the 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 engage with a tool 706 (Figure 7). The mechanical interface 906 can be either size S1 or size S2. The mechanical interface 906 can be configured to rotate the implant plug 900 around its central axis CAp when engaged with a tool (e.g., tool 706). As described above, the inner surface 136 of the implant stem 102 may include threads 138. As shown in Figure 9, the rod 904 may include an outer surface 908 having threads 910 formed thereon. The threads 910 on the rod 904 of the implant plug 900 may be complementary to the threads 138 on the inner surface 136 of the implant stem 102. Thus, the implant plug 900 can be coupled to and uncoupled 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 (Figure 8) can be configured to hold the implant stem 102 while the second implant component 106 (Figure 1) is fitted into the mounting mechanism 128 (Figure 1) on the second end 112 (Figure 1) of the implant stem 102. The fitting of the second implant component 106 and the mounting mechanism 128 of the implant stem 102 may subject the implant stem 102 to stress. The implant plug 900 can be coupled to the implant stem 102 as shown in Figure 10. A tool (e.g., tool 706 (Figure 7)) can be used to engage with the mechanical interface 906 of the implant plug 900. The tool can rotate the implant plug 900 clockwise around the central axis CAp, so that the threads 910 on the rod 904 engage with the threads 138 on the inner surface 136 of the implant stem 102, thereby coupling the implant plug 900 to the implant stem 102. Once 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 insertion within the sizing fixture 800. After insertion, the implant plug 900 can be discoupled from the implant stem 102 by engaging the mechanical interface 906 of the implant plug 900 with a tool 706 to rotate the implant plug 900 counterclockwise around its central axis CAp.

[0040] In the examples, the implant plug 900 can be manufactured from titanium, steel, copper, nickel, carbon fiber, polymer, and any alloy or composite material thereof, or any other material that can be machined to form the implant plug.

[0041] In one embodiment, the system 700 may include one implant plug 900 that can be coupled to any of the implant stems 102 of the system 700. In another embodiment, the system 700 may include one implant plug 900 coupled to the implant stem 102 of the system 700. When the implant plug 900 is coupled to the implant stem 102, the implant plug 900 can maintain the shape of the implant stem without a cavity. Thus, the implant plug 900 can be installed inside the implant stem 102, enabling insertion of the implant stem 102 into the human body without the sensor assembly 104.

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

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

[0044] The hollow head 1150 can define a portion of the channel 1170, which may be located inside the implant plug 1100. The hollow head 1150 may have a larger diameter than any other portion of the implant plug 1100 so that it engages with the humeral stem when the implant plug 1100 is mounted inside the cavity of the humeral stem. In the embodiment, the outer contour of the hollow head 1150 can be aligned with the curvature of the humeral stem such that there is no change in diameter between the portion of the hollow head 1150 adjacent to the humeral stem and the portion of the humeral stem adjacent to the mounted 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 be retracted to allow insertion or removal of the implant plug 1100 into or out of the cavity of the humeral stem. The expansion wall 1160 can expand to allow the implant plug 1100 to be bonded to the humeral stem. The expansion wall 1160 may include a distal portion 1180. In one embodiment, the expansion wall 1160 may have a resting position smaller than the cavity of the humeral stem so that the expansion wall 1160 has clearance inside the cavity of the humeral stem. Thus, the expansion wall 1160 can return to its resting position after the expander wedge 1120 is removed from the expander plug 1110.

[0046] The expander wedge 1120 can be configured to engage with the distal portion 1180 of the expansion wall 1160 to expand or stow the expansion wall 1160. As shown in Figure 11, the expander wedge 1120 may be a cylindrical body with a wedge formed on one end. The expander wedge 1120 can define a portion of the channel 1170. In the embodiment, the expander wedge 1120 may include a threaded internal surface 1190 (shown by a dashed line).

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

[0048] In one example of 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, and provided that 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 with the distal portions 1180 of at least two expansion walls 1160, thereby moving at least two expansion walls 1160 radially outward.

[0049] In another example of 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, and provided that 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 at least two expansion walls 1160 and move at least two expansion walls 1160 radially inward.

[0050] In the embodiment, the expander plug 1110 can be manufactured from titanium, stainless steel, or any other biocompatible material. Thus, the expander plug 1110 can be implanted 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 already installed in the cavity of each stem of the multiple stems. In this case, the surgeon can decide to remove the expander plug 1110 and insert the sensor assembly into the humeral stem during surgery.

[0051] An embodiment of the sensor assembly and humeral stem is discussed in Figures 12 to 14.

[0052] Figure 12 shows one embodiment of the sensor assembly 1250. The sensor assembly 1250 may include a sensor housing 1252, a sensor 1254, and an end cap 1256. After the humeral stem is mounted inside the patient's shoulder, the sensor assembly 1250 can be housed inside the cavity of the humeral stem to detect the movement of the implant.

[0053] The sensor housing 1252 is sized to fit inside the cavity of the humeral stem. The sensor housing 1252 can be manufactured from titanium, stainless steel, or any other biocompatible material. The sensor housing 1252 can protect the sensor 1254 and provide support to the cavity of the humeral stem to prevent crushing of the humeral stem.

[0054] The sensor 1254 can be mounted inside the sensor housing 1252. In another embodiment, the sensor housing 1252 can be formed such that the outside of the sensor 1254 becomes the sensor housing 1252.

[0055] The end cap 1256 is attachable to the sensor housing 1252. In this embodiment, the end cap 1256 can be detachably attached to the sensor housing 1252. When attached to the sensor housing 1252, the end cap 1256 can form one end of the sensor assembly 1250. The end cap 1256 may include an antenna 1258 and a coupling interface 1260.

[0056] The antenna 1258 can connect the sensor 1254 to the controller in a manner that enables communication. The antenna 1258 may be integrated with the end cap 1256. In one embodiment, the antenna 1258 may be located inside the end cap 1256. In another embodiment, the antenna 1258 can be mounted in a location other than the end cap 1256. Here, the antenna 1258 can be mounted inside the sensor housing 1252.

[0057] The coupling interface 1260 can interact with the coupling receptacle of the cavity of the humerus stem. As shown in Figure 12, the coupling interface 1260 may be a tab extending radially outward from the sensor housing 1252. In another embodiment, the coupling interface 1260 may extend radially outward from the end cap 1256. The coupling interface 1260 may be a strut, a dome, any other arbitrary projection, any other engageable shape that can engage with the coupling receptacle of the humerus stem to hold the sensor assembly 1250 inside the cavity of the humerus stem, etc. The coupling interface 1260 can be positioned around the sensor housing 1252 or the end cap 1256 such that when the coupling interface 1260 engages with the coupling receptacle of the humerus stem, the sensor 1254 is positioned at a specific location inside the cavity of the humerus stem.

[0058] Figure 13 shows another embodiment of one of several stems (for example, implant stem 102, hereafter referred to as stem 1300). Stem 1300 may include a bonding receptacle 1310 and an alignment indicator 1320.

[0059] The coupling receptacle 1310 may be engageable with the coupling interface 1260 (Figure 12) to hold a sensor assembly (e.g., sensor assembly 1250) inside any part of the stem 1300. The coupling receptacle 1310 may be a cavity or any other coupling feature that accommodates or can engage with the coupling interface 1260. In the embodiment, the coupling receptacle 1310 can ensure a specific alignment of the sensor inside the humeral stem. For example, the coupling receptacle 1310 can maintain the orientation of the sensor assembly inside the humeral stem, creating a specific alignment between data from various sensors inside the humeral stem. The various sensors inside the humeral stem may be a gyroscope, accelerometer, etc. Therefore, the coupling receptacle 1310 can be configured to position the sensor inside the humeral stem to control the orientation of the sensor when the implant is mounted inside the patient's bone.

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

[0061] Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the implant 1400. The implant 1400 may include a sensor assembly 1250 and a stem 1300. The sensor assembly 1250 is mountable 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 is mountable entirely inside the stem 1300.

[0062] Figure 15 shows one embodiment of the implant 1500. The implant 1500 may include a stem 1502 and a sensor assembly 1510. The sensor assembly 1510 can be mounted inside the stem 1502. For example, the sensor assembly 1510 can be partially mounted such that a portion of the sensor housing 1520 and an 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. Therefore, the length of the stem 1502 can 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 can face a portion of the bone rather than being housed inside the stem 1502.

[0063] To support the sensor assembly 1510, the stem 1502 may include a tapered rim 1540 that extends axially within the stem 1502 for the purpose of supporting the sensor assembly 1510. The additional support provided by the tapered rim 1540 helps support the sensor assembly 1510 when the implant 1500 is mounted inside the patient's bone. For example, the implant 1500 can be mounted inside a reamed portion such as the humerus or femur.

[0064] Figures 16 and 17 will be discussed together below. Figure 16 shows another embodiment of the implant 1600. Figure 17 shows an embodiment of the implant 1600 with the tool 1700 engaged. The implant 1600 may include a stem 1602 and a sensor assembly 1610. The stem 1602 may include a cavity 1604 formed therein. The stem 1602 may also include a tapered portion 1606 formed on the distal portion of the cavity 1604. The cavity 1604 can accommodate the sensor assembly 1610. The sensor assembly 1610 may include a sensor housing 1612 and an end cap 1614. The sensor housing 1612 may include a projection 1616 extending radially outward from the sensor housing 1612.

[0065] The sensor assembly 1610 is mountable inside 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 projection 1616 is positionable on the sensor housing 1612 such that the projection 1616 contacts the tapered portion 1606 when the sensor assembly 1610 is mounted inside the cavity 1604 of the stem 1602. The projection 1616 helps distribute force from the sensor assembly 1610 to the stem 1602. Thus, the projection 1616 helps protect the sensor housing 1612 from stress during the implantation of the implant 1600 into the patient's bone.

[0066] As discussed above, the surfaces of the stem 1602 and the sensor assembly 1610 may include complementary threads to allow the sensor assembly 1610 to be detachably attached to the stem 1602. In the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the threads can be configured to detachably connect the sensor assembly 1610 and the stem 1602 by clockwise rotation of the sensor assembly 1610 inside the stem 1602. In another embodiment, the threads can be configured to detachably connect the sensor assembly 1610 and the stem 1602 by counterclockwise rotation of the sensor assembly 1610 inside the stem 1602. In yet another embodiment, another detachable coupling mechanism can be used as the interface between the stem 1602 and the sensor assembly 1610. For example, retaining rings, pins, set screws, etc., can be used to securely fix the sensor assembly 1610 inside the stem 1602. In the embodiment, a tool 1700 can be used to engage with the projection 1616 for the purpose of attaching or removing the sensor assembly 1610 from the stem 1602. As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the tool 1700 may have a notch for accommodating the projection 1616 and can engage with the projection 1616 as the tool 1700 rotates.

[0067] (Examples) The following non-limiting embodiments further elaborate on some aspects of the subject matter that address the problems discussed herein and provide benefits.

[0068] Example 1 is a system configured for implantation in the human body, comprising a plurality of stems, each having an elongated body containing a cavity with an opening at one end, each stem being of a different size from the others and configured for insertion into the bone of a patient, and a sensor assembly configured to be detachably coupled to one or more of the plurality of stems, the sensor assembly comprising a sensor configured for insertion into 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 of Example 1 optionally includes that each stem of the plurality of stems includes a mounting mechanism formed in an elongated body on the side opposite the cavity, and the mounting mechanism is configured to accommodate a second implant component.

[0070] In Example 3, the subject of Example 2 optionally includes further including an internal surface having threads formed thereon adjacent to the opening of the cavity of each of the multiple stems, where the cavity of each of the multiple stems comprises an internal surface having threads formed thereon.

[0071] In Embodiment 4, the subject of Embodiment 3 optionally includes a sensor assembly comprising a sensor housing having a sensor inside, configured to be inserted into the cavity of an elongated body of one or more of the stems.

[0072] In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 4 optionally includes the fact that the sensor housing includes an external surface having threads, the threads on the external surface of the sensor assembly are complementary to threads formed on the internal surface of the cavity of a plurality of stems, and the sensor assembly is configured to be screwed into the cavity of one or more of the stems.

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

[0074] In Example 7, the subject of Example 6 optionally includes a first group of multiple stems and a second group of multiple stems, wherein each stem of the first group of multiple stems has a smaller outer diameter than each stem of the second group of multiple stems, and at least the first sensor assembly is configured to be coupled with the first group of multiple stems, and at least the second sensor assembly is configured to be coupled with the second group of multiple stems.

[0075] In Example 8, the subject of Example 7 optionally includes an implant plug comprising 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 the inner surface of the cavity of each stem of a plurality of stems, wherein the implant plug forms the end of each stem of the plurality of stems when installed in each stem of the plurality of stems, and the implant plug is configured to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component and each stem of the plurality of stems when installed in each stem of the plurality of stems.

[0076] In Example 9, the subject of Example 8 optionally includes a sizing fixture having a plurality of holes, wherein each hole corresponds to at least one of the outer diameters of the elongated body of at least one of the plurality of stems, and each hole in the sizing fixture is configured to accommodate the elongated body of at least one of the plurality of stems and to hold at least one of the plurality of stems while the second implant component is fitted into the mounting 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 comprising an expander plug having a hollow head defining a portion of a channel inside the implant plug assembly and an expansion wall extending from the hollow head and including a distal portion; an expander wedge defining a portion of a channel inside 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 inside the implant plug assembly and including a threaded surface.

[0078] In Example 11, the subject of Example 10 is optionally complemented by the threaded surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw, such that, provided the expander screw rotates clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, and the expander wedge engages with the 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 the fact that the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates counterclockwise, the threaded surface pushes 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.

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

[0081] In Example 14, the subject of Example 13 optionally includes the humeral stem having alignment marks indicating the location of the bonding receptacle.

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

[0083] In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more embodiments of Examples 3 to 15 optionally further includes an implant plug comprising 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 the inner surface of the cavity of each stem of a plurality of stems, wherein the implant plug forms the end of each stem of the plurality of stems when mounted within each stem of the plurality of stems, and the implant plug is configured to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component and each stem of the plurality of stems when mounted within each stem of the plurality of stems, 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 sensor assembly around their central axis in order to mount or remove the implant plug or sensor assembly within the stem of any one of the plurality of stems.

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

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

[0086] In Example 19, the subject 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, wherein the cavity in the humeral stem and the shaft of the implant plug have complementary threads so that the implant plug can be detachably attached to the humeral stem, and the nose cone forms the end of the implant when the implant plug is coupled to the humeral stem.

[0087] In Example 20, the subject of Example 19 optionally includes a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly including a sensor housing, a nose cone extending from the sensor housing, and a sensor at least partially mounted inside the sensor housing, wherein the cavity in the humeral stem and the sensor housing have complementary threads so that the sensor assembly can be detachably attached to the humeral stem, and the nose cone of the sensor assembly forms the end of the implant when the sensor housing is coupled to the humeral stem.

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

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

[0090] In Example 23, the subject of Example 22 optionally includes the fact that the projection is configured to engage with a tool for mounting and removing 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 the sensor including an antenna mounted inside the nose cone.

[0092] In Example 25, the subject of Example 24 optionally includes a mechanical interface configured to assist in rotating the implant plug and sensor assembly around their central axis in order to facilitate coupling or uncoupling of the implant plug's nose cone and the sensor assembly's nose cone 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 comprising: an expander plug having a hollow head defining a portion of a channel inside the implant plug assembly and an expansion wall extending from the hollow head and including a distal portion; an expander wedge defining a portion of a channel inside 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 inside the implant plug assembly and including a threaded surface.

[0094] In Example 27, the subject of Example 26 optionally includes the condition that the threaded surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and that the expander screw rotates clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, and the expander wedge engages with the distal portion of the expansion wall, causing the expansion wall to move radially outward.

[0095] In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more embodiments of Examples 26 to 27 optionally includes, provided that the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and the threaded surface pushes 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.

[0096] In Example 29, the subject matter of any one or more embodiments 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 inside the sensor housing, the cavity in the humeral stem including a coupling receptacle complementary to the coupling interface of the sensor housing so that the sensor assembly can be detachably 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 of Example 29 optionally includes the humeral stem including alignment marks indicating the location of the bonding receptacle.

[0098] Example 31 is a device that includes means for implementing any of Examples 1 to 30.

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

[0100] Example 33 is a method for implementing any of Examples 1 through 30.

[0101] In Example 34, any one embodiment or any combination of the devices or methods from Examples 1 to 30 can optionally be configured such that all enumerated elements or options are available for use or selection.

[0102] The description described herein includes references to accompanying drawings that form part of the detailed description. The drawings illustrate specific embodiments that can put the invention into practice. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “Examples.” Such embodiments may include elements added to those illustrated or described. However, the inventors also intend embodiments in which only the illustrated and described elements are provided. Furthermore, the inventors also intend embodiments using any combination or substitution of these illustrated or described elements (or one or more of their embodiments) with respect to a particular embodiment (or one or more of its embodiments) or to other embodiments (or one or more of its embodiments) illustrated or described herein.

[0103] In the event of any usage conflict between this Specified and any document incorporated herein by reference, the usage herein shall prevail. In this Publication, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as plain English equivalents of the terms “comprising” and “wherein,” respectively. Similarly, in the following claims, “including” and “comprising” are open-ended; that is, any system, device, article, composition, preparation, or process containing elements added to the elements listed after such terms in the claim shall still be considered within the scope of that claim.

[0104] In this specification, the terms "a" or "an" are used to imply one or more, as is common in patent documents, independently of any other instances or uses of "a" or "one or more". In this document, the term "or" is used to mean non-exclusive "or", and therefore, unless otherwise indicated, "A or B" includes "A but not B", "B but not A", and "A and B". In this document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as plain English equivalents of the terms "comprising" and "wherein", respectively. Similarly, in the following claims, “including” and “comprising” are open-ended; that is, any system, device, article, composition, preparation, or process containing elements added to those listed after such terms in the claim is still considered to fall within the scope of that claim. Furthermore, in the following claims, “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 restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (or one or more of their embodiments) may be used in combination with each other. For example, a person skilled in the art may use other embodiments after reviewing the above description. An abstract is provided in accordance with 37 C. FR § 1.72(b) to allow the reader to quickly review 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 in order to simplify the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as meaning that any disclosed features not claimed are essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may reside in fewer features than all the features of a particular disclosed embodiment combined. Accordingly, the following claims are incorporated herein within the “Detailed Description” as embodiments or examples, and it is intended that each claim stands alone as a separate embodiment, and that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or substitutions. The scope of the present invention should be determined in conjunction with the appended claims and by reference to the widest range of equivalents to which such claims are authorized. According to embodiment (1), in a system configured to be implanted in the human body, A plurality of stems, each of which has a different size from the others, and which has an elongated body containing a cavity having an opening at the end, configured for insertion into the bone of a patient, A sensor assembly configured to be detachably coupled to one or more of the stems, A sensor configured for insertion into the cavity, The sensor assembly includes a nose cone extending from the sensor and protruding from the cavity to cover the opening when the sensor assembly is coupled to one of the stems of a plurality of stems, It is a system equipped with [this feature]. According to embodiment (2), each of the plurality of stems includes a mounting mechanism formed within the elongated body on the side opposite to the cavity, the mounting mechanism being configured to accommodate a second implant component. According to embodiment (3), the cavity of each of the plurality of stems further includes an internal surface having a thread formed adjacent to the opening of the cavity of each of the plurality of stems. According to embodiment (4), the sensor assembly is A sensor housing having the sensor inside, including a sensor housing configured to be inserted into the cavity of the elongated body of one or more of the stems. According to embodiment (5), the sensor housing includes an external surface having threads, the threads of the external surface of the sensor assembly being complementary to the threads formed on the internal surface of the cavity of the plurality of stems, and the sensor assembly is configured to be screwed into the cavity of one or more of the plurality of stems. According to embodiment (6), the system includes a first sensor assembly of a first size and a second sensor assembly of a second size, wherein the nose cone of the first sensor assembly has a first diameter and the nose cone of the second sensor assembly has a second diameter. According to embodiment (7), the first group of the plurality of stems, A second group of the plurality of stems, wherein each of the stems in the first group of the plurality of stems has a smaller outer diameter than each of the stems in the second group of the plurality of stems, It further includes, At least the first sensor assembly is configured to be coupled to the first group of the plurality of stems, and at least the second sensor assembly is configured to be coupled to the second group of the plurality of stems. According to embodiment (8), the implant plug is, The nose cone, A rod extending from the nose cone, having threads formed on an outer surface that is complementary to the threads formed on the inner surface of the cavity of each of the multiple stems, The implant plug further comprises, The implant plug is configured to form the end of each of the multiple stems when installed inside each of the multiple stems, and to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component and each of the multiple stems when installed inside each of the multiple stems. According to embodiment (9), a sizing fastener having a plurality of holes, wherein each of the plurality of holes corresponds to at least one of the outer diameters of the elongated body of at least one of the stems among the plurality of stems, It further includes, Each of the multiple holes in the sizing fixture is configured to accommodate the elongated body of at least one of the multiple stems and to hold at least one of the multiple stems while the second implant component is fitted inside the mounting mechanism. According to embodiment (10), the implant plug assembly is, It is an expander plug, A hollow head that defines a portion of the channel inside the implant plug assembly, An extended wall extending from the aforementioned hollow head, including a distal portion, The expander plug having, A portion of the channel is defined within the implant plug assembly, and an expander wedge having a threaded inner surface is provided. It is an expander screw, The head and, A stem extending from the head and through the channel within the implant plug assembly, including a threaded surface, The expander screw having, The implant plug assembly further comprises the said implant plug assembly. According to embodiment (11), the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, and the expander wedge engages with the distal portion of the expansion wall, causing the expansion wall to move radially outward. According to embodiment (12), the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates counterclockwise, the threaded surface pushes 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. According to embodiment (13), the sensor assembly is A sensor housing having a coupling interface, The sensor is at least partially mounted inside the sensor housing, Includes, The cavity of each of the multiple stems includes a coupling receptacle that is complementary to the coupling interface of the sensor housing, so that the sensor assembly can be detachably mounted to each of the multiple stems. The sensor housing forms the end of the system when it is coupled to any of the multiple stems. According to embodiment (14), each of the plurality of stems is provided with an alignment mark indicating the location of the coupling receptacle. According to embodiment (15), the antenna further includes an antenna located inside the nose cone that is in communication with the sensor. According to embodiment (16), the implant plug is, The nose cone, A rod extending from the nose cone, having threads formed on an outer surface that is complementary to the threads formed on the inner surface of the cavity of each of the multiple stems, The implant plug further includes, The implant plug is configured to form the end of each of the multiple stems when installed inside each of the multiple stems, and to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component and each of the multiple stems when the second implant component is installed inside each of the multiple stems. Within one of the multiple stems, 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 around their respective central axes for mounting or removing the implant plug or the sensor assembly. According to embodiment (17), the present invention further includes a tool configured to engage with the mechanical interface in order to remove and install the implant plug and the sensor assembly within the cavity extending through the distal portion of any of the multiple stems. According to embodiment (18), in an implant that can be inserted into a patient's shoulder, Joint interface and A humeral stem connected to the aforementioned joint interface, A long, slender body having a distal portion, A cavity extending through the distal portion into the interior of the elongated body, The humeral stem includes a mounting mechanism for the end of the humeral stem opposite to the cavity, the mounting mechanism configured to accommodate the joint interface, This is an implant equipped with [a specific feature / feature]. According to embodiment (19), the implant plug is, A cylindrical body extending between the first end and the second end, A nose cone extending from the first end of the cylindrical body, A shaft extending from the second end of the cylindrical body, Further includes an implant plug having, The cavity inside the humeral stem and the shaft of the implant plug have complementary threads so that the implant plug can be detachably attached to the humeral stem. The nose cone forms the end of the implant when the implant plug is connected to the humeral stem. According to embodiment (20), the sensor assembly further comprises, Sensor housing and A nose cone extending from the aforementioned sensor housing, The sensor comprises at least partially mounted inside the sensor housing, The cavity and the sensor housing inside the humeral stem have complementary threads so that the sensor assembly can be detachably attached to the humeral stem. The nose cone of the sensor assembly forms the end of the implant when the sensor housing is coupled to the humeral stem. According to embodiment (21), at least a portion of the sensor housing and the nose cone extend outward from the humeral stem, and the distal portion of the humeral stem includes a tapered surface that tapers toward the cavity of the humeral stem. According to embodiment (22), the sensor housing includes a projection extending radially outward from the sensor housing, the projection being positioned on the sensor housing so as to contact the distal portion of the humeral stem when the sensor housing is mounted inside the cavity of the humeral stem. According to embodiment (23), the projection is configured to engage with a tool for attaching the sensor assembly or removing it from the cavity of the humeral stem. According to embodiment (24), the sensor includes an antenna mounted inside the nose cone. According to embodiment (25), 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 around their central axis in order 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. According to embodiment (26), an expander plug, A hollow head that defines a portion of the channel inside the implant plug assembly, An extended wall extending from the aforementioned hollow head, including a distal portion, The expander plug having, A portion of the channel is defined within the implant plug assembly, and an expander wedge including a threaded inner surface is provided. It is an expander screw, The head and, Extending from the head, extending through the channel within the implant plug assembly, the stem includes a threaded surface, The expander screw includes, The implant plug assembly further includes the aforementioned implant plug assembly. According to embodiment (27), the threaded surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, the expander wedge engages with the distal portion of the expansion wall, and moves the expansion wall radially outward. According to embodiment (28), the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates counterclockwise, the threaded surface pushes 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. According to embodiment (29), the sensor assembly further includes, A sensor housing having a coupling interface, A sensor, at least partially mounted inside the sensor housing, Includes, The cavity inside the humeral stem includes a coupling receptacle that is complementary to the coupling interface of the sensor housing, so that the sensor assembly can be detachably attached to the humeral stem. When the sensor housing is coupled to the humeral stem, it forms the end of the implant. According to embodiment (30), the humeral stem is provided with alignment marks indicating the location of the bonding receptacle.

Claims

1. In a system designed to be implanted in the human body, A plurality of stems, each of which has a different size from the others, and which has an elongated body containing a cavity having an opening at the end, configured for insertion into the bone of a patient, A sensor assembly configured to be detachably coupled to one or more of the stems, A sensor configured for insertion into the cavity, The sensor assembly includes a nose cone that extends from the sensor and protrudes from the cavity to cover the opening when the sensor assembly is coupled to one of the stems of a plurality of stems, Equipped with, Each of the multiple stems includes a mounting mechanism formed within the elongated body on the side opposite to the cavity, and the mounting mechanism is configured to accommodate a second implant component. Each of the plurality of stems has an internal surface having threads formed adjacent to the opening of the cavity of each of the plurality of stems. The sensor assembly includes a sensor housing having the sensor inside, and the sensor housing is configured to be inserted into the cavity of the elongated body of one or more of the stems, The sensor housing includes an external surface having threads, the threads on the external surface of the sensor assembly are complementary to the threads formed on the internal surface of the cavity of the plurality of stems, and the sensor assembly is configured to be screwed into the cavity of one or more of the plurality of stems. The system includes a first sensor assembly of a first size and a second sensor assembly of a second size. The nose cone of the first sensor assembly has a first diameter, and the nose cone of the second sensor assembly has a second diameter. system.

2. A first group of the multiple stems, A second group of the plurality of stems, wherein each of the stems in the first group of the plurality of stems has a smaller outer diameter than each of the stems in the second group of the plurality of stems, It further includes, At least the first sensor assembly is configured to be coupled to the first group of the plurality of stems, and at least the second sensor assembly is configured to be coupled to the second group of the plurality of stems. The system according to claim 1.

3. It is an implant plug, The nose cone, A rod extending from the nose cone, having threads formed on an outer surface that is complementary to the threads formed on the inner surface of the cavity of each of the multiple stems, The implant plug further comprises, The system according to claim 2, wherein the implant plug, when installed inside each of the multiple stems, forms the end of each of the multiple stems, and the implant plug, when installed inside each of the multiple stems, is configured to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component and each of the multiple stems.

4. A sizing fixture having a plurality of holes, wherein each of the plurality of holes corresponds to at least one of the outer diameters of the elongated body of at least one of the stems among the plurality of stems, It further includes, The system according to claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of holes in the sizing fixture is configured to accommodate the elongated body of at least one of the plurality of stems and to hold at least one of the plurality of stems while the second implant component is fitted inside the mounting mechanism.

5. An implant plug assembly, It is an expander plug, A hollow head that defines a portion of the channel inside the implant plug assembly, An extended wall extending from the aforementioned hollow head, including a distal portion, The expander plug having, A portion of the channel is defined within the implant plug assembly, and an expander wedge having a threaded inner surface is provided. It is an expander screw, The head and, A stem extending from the head and through the channel within the implant plug assembly, including a threaded surface, The expander screw having, The system according to claim 1, further comprising the implant plug assembly including the said implant plug assembly.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, and the expander wedge engages with the distal portion of the expansion wall, causing the expansion wall to move radially outward.

7. The system according to claim 5, wherein the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates counterclockwise, the threaded surface pushes 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.

8. A system configured to be implanted in the human body, A plurality of stems, each of which has a different size from the others, and which has an elongated body containing a cavity having an opening at the end, configured for insertion into the bone of a patient, A sensor assembly configured to be detachably coupled to one or more of the stems, A sensor configured for insertion into the cavity, The sensor assembly includes a nose cone that extends from the sensor and protrudes from the cavity to cover the opening when the sensor assembly is coupled to one of the stems of a plurality of stems, Equipped with, The aforementioned sensor assembly is A sensor housing having a coupling interface, The sensor is at least partially mounted inside the sensor housing, Includes, The cavity of each of the multiple stems includes a coupling receptacle that is complementary to the coupling interface of the sensor housing, so that the sensor assembly can be detachably mounted to each of the multiple stems. When the sensor housing is coupled to any of the multiple stems, it forms the end of the system. Each of the plurality of stems is provided with an alignment mark indicating the location of the coupling receptacle. system.

9. It is an implant plug, The nose cone, A rod extending from the nose cone, having threads formed on an outer surface that is complementary to the threads formed on the inner surface of the cavity of each of the multiple stems, The implant plug further includes, The implant plug is configured to form the end of each of the multiple stems when installed inside each of the multiple stems, and to provide structural support during assembly of the second implant component and each of the multiple stems when the second implant component is installed inside each of the multiple stems. The system according to claim 1, wherein, inside any one of the multiple stems, 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 around their respective central axes for mounting or removing the implant plug or the sensor assembly.

10. In an implant that can be inserted into the patient's shoulder, Joint interface and A humeral stem connected to the aforementioned joint interface, A long, slender body with a distal portion, A cavity extending through the distal portion into the interior of the elongated body, The humeral stem includes a mounting mechanism for the end of the humeral stem opposite to the cavity, the mounting mechanism configured to accommodate the joint interface, A sensor assembly, wherein the sensor assembly is A sensor housing having a coupling interface, A sensor, at least partially mounted inside the sensor housing, The sensor assembly includes, Equipped with, The cavity inside the humeral stem includes a coupling receptacle that is complementary to the coupling interface of the sensor housing, so that the sensor assembly can be detachably attached to the humeral stem. When the sensor housing is coupled to the humeral stem, it forms the end of the implant. The humeral stem is provided with alignment marks indicating the location of the connecting receptacle. Dental implants.

11. It is an implant plug, A cylindrical body extending between the first end and the second end, A nose cone extending from the first end of the cylindrical body, A shaft extending from the second end of the cylindrical body, Further includes an implant plug having, The cavity inside the humeral stem and the shaft of the implant plug have complementary threads so that the implant plug can be detachably attached to the humeral stem. The nose cone forms the end of the implant when the implant plug is connected to the humeral stem. The implant according to claim 10.

12. Furthermore, it comprises a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly is Sensor housing and A nose cone extending from the aforementioned sensor housing, The sensor comprises at least partially mounted inside the sensor housing, The cavity and the sensor housing inside the humeral stem have complementary threads so that the sensor assembly can be detachably attached to the humeral stem. The nose cone of the sensor assembly forms the end of the implant when the sensor housing is coupled to the humeral stem. The implant according to claim 11.

13. At least a portion of the sensor housing and the nose cone extend outward from the humeral stem, and the distal portion of the humeral stem includes a tapered surface that tapers toward the cavity of the humeral stem. The sensor housing includes a projection extending radially outward from the sensor housing, the projection being positioned on the sensor housing so as to contact the distal portion of the humeral stem when the sensor housing is mounted inside the cavity of the humeral stem. The projection is configured to engage with a tool for attaching the sensor assembly or removing it from the cavity of the humeral stem. The implant according to claim 12.

14. The sensor includes an antenna mounted inside the nose cone. 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 around their central axis in order 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. The implant according to claim 12.

15. It is an expander plug, A hollow head that defines a portion of the channel inside the implant plug assembly, An extended wall extending from the aforementioned hollow head, including a distal portion, The expander plug having, A portion of the channel is defined within the implant plug assembly, and an expander wedge including a threaded inner surface is provided. It is an expander screw, The head and, Extending from the head, extending through the channel within the implant plug assembly, the stem includes a threaded surface, The expander screw includes, The implant according to claim 10, further comprising the implant plug assembly comprising the implant plug assembly.

16. The implant according to claim 15, wherein the threaded surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates clockwise, the threaded surface pulls the expander wedge toward the head of the expander screw, the expander wedge engages with the distal portion of the expansion wall, and moves the expansion wall radially outward.

17. The implant according to claim 15, wherein the threaded inner surface of the expander wedge and the threaded surface on the stem of the expander screw are complementary, and provided that the expander screw rotates counterclockwise, the threaded surface pushes 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.

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