Devices, systems, and methods for repairing articular surfaces

Articular surface repair systems with strategically positioned implants address the issues of wear and instability in joint arthroplasty by reducing shear and rocking forces, enhancing stability, and preserving bone for future surgeries.

WO2025251066A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2025-12-04CATALYST ORTHOSCI INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/US2025/031836
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-06-01
Filing Date
2025-05-31
Publication Date
2025-12-04

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing joint arthroplasty procedures using large opposing artificial articular surfaces experience issues with shear and rocking forces, leading to wear, implant failure, and the need for more bone removal, which complicates revision surgeries.

Method used

The development of articular surface repair systems with smaller, strategically positioned implants that couple with joint bones at multiple locations, reducing shear and rocking forces, enhancing mechanical stability, and minimizing bone removal during installation.

Benefits of technology

These systems reduce wear on artificial articulating surfaces, increase mechanical stability, and preserve bone for future surgeries by minimizing bone removal, thereby extending implant lifespan and improving surgical outcomes.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

An articular surface repair system may include a first implant with a first shaft having a first proximal end, a first distal end, a first longitudinal axis, and a first artificial articular surface, as well as a second implant with a second shaft having a second proximal end, a second distal end, a second longitudinal axis, and a second artificial articular surface. The first implant may couple with a joint bone at a first location, and the second implant may couple with the joint bone at a second location spaced apart from the first location. The first artificial articular surface may replace a first portion of a natural articular surface of the joint bone, and the second artificial articular surface may replace a second portion of the natural articular surface of the joint bone to repair the natural articular surface at the first and second locations.
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Description

DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR REPAIRING ARTICULAR SURFACESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 654,955 filed on June 1, 2024. entitled “SYSTEM FOR REPAIRING ARTICULAR SURFACES”. The above-referenced document is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to medical devices, systems, and methods. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to joint arthroplasty devices, systems, and methods for repairing articular surfaces on joint bones.BACKGROUND

[0003] Joint arthroplasty surgical procedures can be utilized to restore the function of unhealthy joints. Joint arthroplasty procedures typically replace the diseased articulating surfaces of the unhealthy joint with large opposing artificial articular surfaces that are usually centrally -located and anchored into each bone of the unhealthy joint. For example, in a typical total shoulder arthroplasty procedure, a humeral implant is attached to the humerus and a glenoid implant is attached to the glenoid or scapula. For an anatomical shoulder arthroplasty procedure, the implant designs may replicate the existing anatomy, where the humeral head is replaced with a similarly shaped convex hemispherical surface, and the glenoid is replaced with a shallow concave socket. For a reverse shoulder arthroplasty procedure, these concave and convex articular surfaces may be reversed to opposite sides of the shoulder joint.

[0004] However, these large opposing artificial articular surfaces that are anchored in each bone of the joint in some maimer can result in many disadvantages over time, including: (1) these larger opposing artificial articulating surfaces can experience larger shear and / or rocking forces (due to their size) which can wear out the artificial articulating surfaces of the implants and require more frequent replacement / revision surgeries; (2) the larger shear / rocking forces experienced by these larger opposing artificial articulating surfaces can degrade the bone / implant interface(s) over time resulting in less mechanical stability within the bone and / or greater risk of implant failure; and (3) these larger opposing artificial articulating surfaces typically require the removal of a significant amount of bone material from the joint bones during the installation procedure, limiting the availability of good healthy bone for possible future revision surgeries that may be needed.

[0005] Accordingly, articular surface repair implants and systems that can reduce the amount of shear / rocking forces experienced by each individual implant within the system to (1) reduce wear on each articulating surface and (2) increase the mechanical stability at each bone / implant interface in order to reduce the risk of implant failure, while (3) also reducing the amount of bone material that needs to be removed from the joint bones during the installation procedure to preserve more bone for possible future revision surgeries that may be needed, would be desirable.SUMMARY

[0006] The joint arthroplasty devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure have been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available joint arthroplasty devices, systems, and methods. In some embodiments, the joint arthroplasty devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure may provide improved devices, systems, and methods for repairing articular surfaces on joint bones.

[0007] In some embodiments, an articular surface repair system may include a first implant and a second implant. The first implant may include a first shaft having a first proximal end, a first distal end, and a first longitudinal axis, as well as a first artificial articular surface coupled to the first proximal end of the first shaft. The second implant may include a second shaft having a second proximal end, a second distal end. and a second longitudinal axis, as well as a second artificial articular surface coupled to the second proximal end of the second shaft. The first implant may be configured to couple with a first joint bone at a first location, and the second implant may be configured to couple with the first joint bone at a second location spaced apart from the first location. The first artificial articular surface may be configured to replace a first portion of a first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at the first location, and the second artificial articular surface may be configured to replace a second portion of the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at the second location.

[0008] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first implant and the second implant may be configured to couple with the first joint bone along an orientation that is oblique to the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone.

[0009] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first implant and the second implant may be configured to couple with the first joint bone along an orientation that is perpendicular to the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone.

[0010] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first artificial articular surface and the second artificial articular surface may be positionable relative to the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at a height that includes at least one of: a flush height, a protruding height, an underlying height.

[0011] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, further including a third implant that may include a third artificial articular surface. The third implant may be configured to couple with a second joint bone at a third location, and the third artificial articular surface may be configured to replace a third portion of a second natural articular surface of the second joint bone to repair the second natural articular surface of the second joint bone at the third location.

[0012] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first artificial articular surface, the second artificial articular surface, and the third artificial articular surface may include at least one of a curved shape and a polygonal shape.

[0013] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first artificial articular surface and the second artificial articular surface may include at least one of: a concave surface shape, a convex surface shape, and a flat surface shape.

[0014] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein the first artificial articular surface may be oriented at a first oblique angle relative to the first longitudinal axis of the first implant, and the second artificial articular surface may be oriented at a second oblique angle relative to the second longitudinal axis of the second implant.

[0015] In some embodiments, an articular surface repair system may include a plurality of implants comprising a plurality of shafts and a plurality of artificial articular surfaces. The plurality of implants may be configured to couple with a first joint bone at a plurality of different locations spaced apart from each other, and the plurality of artificial articular surfaces may be configured to replace a plurality of different portions of a first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at the plurality of different locations.

[0016] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein the plurality' of artificial articular surfaces may include at least one of: a plurality of concave surface shapes, a plurality of convex surface shapes, and a plurality of flat surface shapes.

[0017] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein each of the plurality' of artificial articular surfaces may be shaped and oriented to align with the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone.

[0018] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, further including at least one additional implant that may include at least one additional artificial articular surface. The at least one additional implant may be configured to couple with a second joint bone at a second location, and the at least one additional artificial articular surface may be configured to replace a second portion of a second natural articular surface of the second joint bone to repair the second natural articular surface of the second joint bone at the second location.

[0019] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein a transverse cross-sectional shape of at least one of the plurality of shafts includes at least one of a curved shape and a polygonal shape.

[0020] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the plurality of shafts includes at least one of a constant transverse cross-sectional area and a variable transverse cross-sectional area.

[0021] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the plurality of shafts includes at least one of: a longitudinal passageway formed therethrough, a transverse passageway formed therethrough, a pore formed therein, and a channel formed therein.

[0022] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the plurality of shafts includes at least one of: a longitudinal rib. a transverse rib. a longitudinal compression ramp, an anti-back out feature, an interference projection, and a head portion.

[0023] In some embodiments, an articular surface repair system may include a first glenoid implant and a second glenoid implant. The first glenoid implant may include a first shaft having a first proximal end, a first distal end, and a first longitudinal axis, as well as a first artificial articular surface coupled to the first proximal end of the first shaft. The second glenoid implant may include a second shaft having a second proximal end. a second distal end, and a second longitudinal axis, as well as a second artificial articular surface coupled to the second proximal end of the second shaft. The first glenoid implant may be configured to couple with a glenoid at a first location, and the second glenoid implant may be configured to couple with the glenoid at a second location spaced apart from the first location. The first artificial articular surface may be configured to replace a first portion of a first natural articular surface of the glenoid to repair the first natural articular surface of the glenoid at the first location, and the second artificial articular surface may be configured to replace a second portion of the first natural articular surface of the glenoid to repair the first natural articular surface of the glenoid at the second location.

[0024] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first artificial articular surface and the second artificial articular surface may be shaped and oriented to match a radius of the first natural articular surface of the glenoid.

[0025] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first glenoid implant and the second glenoid implant may be configured to couple with the glenoid along an orientation that is oblique to the first natural articular surface of the glenoid.

[0026] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first glenoid implant and the second glenoid implant may be configured to couple with the glenoid along an orientation that is perpendicular to the first natural articular surface of the glenoid.

[0027] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of: the first artificial articular surface may be oriented at a first oblique angle relative to the first longitudinal axis of the first glenoid implant, and the second artificial articular surface may be oriented at a second oblique angle relative to the second longitudinal axis of the second glenoid implant.

[0028] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, further including a third humeral implant that may include a third artificial articular surface. The third humeral implant may be configured to couple with a humeral head at a third location, and the third artificial articular surface may be configured to replace a third portion of a second natural articular surface of the humeral head to repair the second natural articular surface of the humeral head at the third location.

[0029] The articular surface repair system according to any preceding paragraph, wherein at least one of the first artificial articular surface, the second artificial articular surface, and the third artificial articular surface may include at least one of: a concave surface shape, a convex surface shape, and a flat surface shape.

[0030] These and other Features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or may be learned by the practice of the joint arthroplasty devices, systems, and methods set forth hereinafter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments and are. therefore, not to be considered limiting of the scope of the appended claims, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0032] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. IB illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 1 A;

[0034] FIG. 1C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 1 A;

[0035] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 2A;

[0037] FIG. 2C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 2A;

[0038] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 3 A;

[0040] FIG. 3C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 3 A;

[0041] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 4B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 4A;

[0043] FIG. 4C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 4A;

[0044] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of tire present disclosure;

[0045] FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 5A;

[0046] FIG. 5C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 5 A;

[0047] FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 6A;

[0049] FIG. 6C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 6A;

[0050] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 7A;

[0052] FIG. 7C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 7A;

[0053] FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 8A;

[0055] FIG. 8C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 8A;

[0056] FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 9A;

[0058] FIG. 9C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 9A;

[0059] FIG. 10A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 10B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 10A;

[0061] FIG. IOC illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 10A;

[0062] FIG. 11A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 1 IB illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 11 A;

[0064] FIG. 11C illustrates a distal end view of the implant of FIG. 11 A;

[0065] FIG. 12 A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 12B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 12 A;

[0067] FIG. 12C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 12A;

[0068] FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 13B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 13A;

[0070] FIG. 13C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 13A;

[0071] FIG. 14A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0072] FIG. 14B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 14A;

[0073] FIG. 14C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 14A;

[0074] FIG. 15A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0075] FIG. 15B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 15A;

[0076] FIG. 15C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 15A;

[0077] FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0078] FIG. 16B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 16 A;

[0079] FIG. 16C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 16A;

[0080] FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0081] FIG. 17B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 17A;

[0082] FIG. 17C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 17A;

[0083] FIG. 18A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0084] FIG. 18B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 18A;

[0085] FIG. 18C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 18A;

[0086] FIG. 19A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0087] FIG. 19B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 19A;

[0088] FIG. 19C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 19A;

[0089] FIG. 20A illustrates a perspective proximal end view of an implant, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0090] FIG. 20B illustrates a side view of the implant of FIG. 20A;

[0091] FIG. 20C illustrates a proximal end view of the implant of FIG. 20A;

[0092] FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of a scapula bone with a glenoid;

[0093] FIG. 22 illustrates the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with multiple bone tunnels formed in the glenoid, according to an example arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0094] FIG. 23 illustrates the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with multiple bone tunnels formed in the glenoid, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0095] FIG. 24 illustrates the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with multiple bone tunnels formed in the glenoid, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0096] FIG. 25 illustrates the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with multiple bone tunnels formed in the glenoid, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0097] FIG. 26 illustrates the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with multiple bone tunnels formed in the glenoid, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0098] FIG. 27 illustrates the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with multiple bone tunnels formed in the glenoid, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0099] FIG. 28 illustrates the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with multiple bone tunnels formed in the glenoid, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0100] FIG. 29 illustrates the implant of FIGS. 16 pressed into a bone tunnel with multiple interference projections forming an interference fit therein, according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0101] FIG. 30 illustrates the implant of FIGS. 17 pressed into a bone tunnel with multiple interference projections forming an interference fit therein, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0102] FIG. 31 illustrates the implant of FIGS. 18 pressed into a bone tunnel with multiple interference projections forming an interference fit therein, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0103] FIG. 32 illustrates the implant of FIGS. 19 pressed into a bone tunnel with multiple interference projections forming an interference fit therein, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0104] FIG. 33 illustrates the implant of FIGS. 20 pressed into a bone tunnel with multiple interference projections forming an interference fit therein, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0105] FIG. 34 illustrates the implant of FIGS. 12 pressed into a bone tunnel with multiple interference projections forming an interference fit therein, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0106] FIG. 35 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional side view of a glenoid with two perpendicular bone tunnels formed therein, according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0107] FIG. 36 illustrates the glenoid of FIG. 35 with two implants placed within the two perpendicular bone tunnels, according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0108] FIG. 37 illustrates the glenoid of FIG. 35 with two implants placed within the two perpendicular bone tunnels, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0109] FIG. 38 illustrates the glenoid of FIG. 35 with two implants placed within the two perpendicular bone tunnels, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0110] FIG. 39 illustrates the glenoid of FIG. 35 with two implants placed within the two perpendicular bone tunnels, according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0111] FIG. 40 illustrates a side view of the glenoid shown in FIG. 39;

[0112] FIG. 41 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional side view of a glenoid with tw o oblique bone tunnels formed therein, according to another example of the present disclosure; and

[0113] FIG. 42 illustrates the glenoid of FIG. 41 with tw o implants placed within the tw o oblique bone tunnels, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0114] It is to be understood that the drawings are for purposes of illustrating tire concepts of the present disclosure and may not be drawn to scale. Furthermore, the drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments and do not represent limitations to the scope of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0115] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. It will be readily understood that the components of the present disclosure, as generally described and illustrated in the drawings, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods, asrepresented in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure but is merely representative of exemplar}' embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0116] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary " is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. While the various aspects of the embodiments are presented in the drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated.

[0117] Standard medical planes of reference and descriptive terminology' are employed in this specification. While these tenns are commonly used to refer to the human body, certain terms may also be applicable to physical objects in general.

[0118] A standard system of three mutually perpendicular reference planes is employed. A sagittal plane divides a body into right and left portions. A coronal plane divides a body into anterior and posterior portions. A transverse plane divides a body into superior and inferior portions. A mid-sagittal, mid-coronal, or mid-transverse plane divides a body into equal portions, which may be bilaterally symmetric. The intersection of the sagittal and coronal planes defines a superior-inferior or cephalad- caudal axis. The intersection of the sagittal and transverse planes defines an anterior-posterior axis. The intersection of the coronal and transverse planes defines a medial-lateral axis. The superior-inferior or cephalad-caudal axis, the anterior-posterior axis, and the medial-lateral axis are mutually perpendicular.

[0119] Anterior means toward the front of a body. Posterior means toward the back of a body. Superior or cephalad means toward the head. Inferior or caudal means toward the feet or tail. Medial means toward the midline of a body, particularly toward a plane of bilateral symmetry of the body. Lateral means away from the midline of a body or away from a plane of bilateral symmetry' of the body. Axial means toward a central axis of a body. Abaxial means away from a central axis of a body. Ipsilateral means on the same side of the body. Contralateral means on the opposite side of the body. Proximal means toward the trunk of the body. Proximal may also mean toward a user or operator. Distal means away from the trunk. Distal may also mean away from a user or operator. Dorsal means toward the top of the foot. Plantar means toward the sole of the foot. Varus means outboard deviation of the knees (away from the sagittal plane) from the line between the hip and ankle, resulting in a “bowlegged” stance. Valgus means inboard deviation of the knees (toward the sagittal plane) from the line between the hip and ankle, resulting in a “knock-kneed” stance.

[0120] As used herein, the term “curved shape” can comprise any shape that includes at least one curved line / side / edge / surface / etc., including, but not limited to: circular, oval / ovular, ovoid, elliptical, or any other oblong or distorted round shapes, etc., which may (or may not) also comprise one or more polygonal shapes coupled to or integrated within the curved shape.

[0121] As used herein, the term “polygonal shape” can comprise any shape that includes at least one straight line / side / edge / surface / etc.. including, but not limited to: triangular, quadrilateral, square, rectangular, trapezoidal, rhomboid, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal shapes (or any othershape with any number of sides), etc., which may (or may not) also comprise one or more curved shapes coupled to or integrated within the polygonal shape.

[0122] As used herein, the term "natural articular surface" may include any natural articular surface, including, but limited to: any healthy, morphologically optimal, or anatomically correct natural articular surface; any diseased, morphologically suboptimal, or anatomically incorrect natural articular surface; and any natural articular surface (whether healthy or diseased) that may have undergone one or more additional shaping processes (e.g., polishing, reaming, cutting, rasping, broaching, etc.). Moreover, it will be understood that replacing a particular portion or region of a natural articular surface with an "artificial articular surface" does not necessarily imply that the artificial articular surface replacement must also target / have the exact shape, curvature, three-dimensional position in space, morphology, etc., as the portion of the natural articular surface that the artificial articular surface intends to replace. For example, in some arthroplasty procedures the goal may be to replace a particular portion or region of a natural articular surface with an artificial articular surface that does target the same shape, curvature, three-dimensional position in space, morphology, etc., as the portion of the natural articular surface it intends to replace, but in other arthroplasty procedures the goal may be to replace a particular portion or region of a natural articular surface with an artificial articular surface that differs in shape, curvature, three-dimensional position in space, morphology, etc., in comparison to the portion of the natural articular surface it intends to replace. In other words, restoring articular function (in any desired form, including any anatomical arthroplasty7configuration, any reverse arthroplasty configuration, etc.) for a particular portion or region of a natural articular surface can be the primary' consideration over the exact shape, curvature, three-dimensional position in space, morphology, etc., for a given artificial articular surface in comparison to the natural articular surface it intends to replace. As one non-limiting example, a natural articular surface of a glenoid may be replaced with an artificial articular surface that defines a reverse glenoid articular surface, etc.

[0123] Any implant disclosed or contemplated herein may utilize any material or combination of materials, including, but not limited to: any plastics or polymers (e.g., polyethylene [PE], poly-ether- ether-ketone [PEEK], poly-lactic acid [PLA], poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid [PLGA], poly-glycolic acid [PGA], poly-methyl-methacrylate [PMMA], silicone, etc.), any metals or metal alloys (e.g., titanium, stainless steel, nitinol or cobalt chrome, etc.), any ceramics (e.g., alumina, zirconia, etc.), any biocomposites (e.g.. tricalcium phosphate [TCP], hydroxyapatite, calcium carbonate, etc.), any biological materials (e.g., bone grafts, collagen, bone growth stimulation proteins / chemicals. etc.), any resorbable or non-resorbable materials, etc., without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0124] Although the present disclosure illustrates articular surface repair implants, systems, methods, and instruments with reference to repairing a glenoid articular surface of a scapula bone, it will also be understood drat the implants, systems, methods, and instruments disclosed herein may also be adapted for use with any type of joint bone to repair any type of articular surface within the body.including, but not limited to applications in die: hip, knee, elbow, ankle, foot, wrist, hand, extremities, shoulder, etc., without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the implants, systems, methods, and instruments disclosed herein may also be adapted for use in repairing any side of a joint bone according to an anatomical or reverse orientation tiiat may include a concave articular surface (e.g., a glenoid socket, etc.), a convex articular surface (e.g., a humeral head, etc.), and / or a flat articular surface (or any combinations thereof), without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0125] Any implant disclosed or contemplated herein may be implanted in a joint bone via any surgical technique, including, but not limited to: open surgical techniques, minimally -invasive surgical techniques (e.g., implants inserted arthroscopically via small incisions, robot-assisted surgical techniques, etc., without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0126] FIGS. 1A-20C illustrate various implant embodiments, according to some non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. However, it will be understood that any implant or system of implants that is described or contemplated herein may (or may not) include any feature or morphology that is described or contemplated herein with respect to any other implant or system of implants that is described or contemplated herein to achieve optimal fixation within a given joint bone and / or optimal articular function for a repaired joint bone. Moreover, it will also be understood that any feature or morphology of any implant that is described or contemplated herein may (or may not) be utilized in conjunction with any other implant that is described or contemplated herein to form any number of different combinations of implants or implant systems. Additionally, any of the implants, implant systems, and / or surgical instruments that are described or contemplated herein may be combined in any maimer to produce any number of different surgical kits.

[0127] FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate various views of an implant 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 1 A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 100, FIG. IB shows a side view of the implant 100, and FIG. 1C shows a proximal end view of the implant 100.

[0128] The implant 100 may generally include a shaft 110 having a proximal end 111, a distal end 112, a longitudinal axis 113, and one or more shaft side surfaces 122. The implant 100 may also include an artificial articular surface 150 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 111 of the shaft 110.

[0129] In some embodiments, the shaft 110 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 110 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0130] In some embodiments, the shaft 110 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0131] In some embodiments, the shaft 110 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along an entire length or a length 123 of the shaft 110. In this manner, the diameter or width 124 of the shaft 110 may also be constant / continuous along the length 123 of the shaft 110. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of tire shaft 110 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary' (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereol) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 123 of the shaft 110.

[0132] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 124 of the shaft 110 (and / or implant 100 or artificial articular surface 150) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 124 of the shaft 110 (and / or implant 100 or artificial articular surface 150) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0133] In some embodiments, the width 124 of the shaft 110 (or implant 100) may be less than the length 123 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 124 of the shaft 110 (or implant 100) may be equal to or greater than the length 123 of the shaft.

[0134] In some embodiments, the width 124 of the shaft 110 (or implant 100) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 123 of the shaft (or implant 100). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 124 of the shaft 110 (or implant 100) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 123 of the shaft (or implant 100).

[0135] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 151. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 150 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0136] In some embodiments, the width 151 of the artificial articular surface 150 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 124 of the shaft 110 (or implant 100). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 151 of the artificial articular surface 150 may be less than or greater than the width 124 of the shaft 110 (or implant 100).

[0137] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0138] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 113 of the shaft 110. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 150 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 113 of the shaft 110 (e.g., see FIGS. 3A-3C, as one non-limiting example).

[0139] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0140] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0141] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0142] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0143] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 150 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 150 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein.

[0144] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate various views of an implant 200, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 2A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 200, FIG. 2B shows a side view of the implant 200, and FIG. 2C shows a proximal end view of the implant 200.

[0145] The implant 200 may generally include a shaft 210 having a proximal end 211, a distal end 212. a longitudinal axis 213, and one or more shaft side surfaces 222. The implant 200 may also include an artificial articular surface 250 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 211 of the shaft 210.

[0146] In some embodiments, the shaft 210 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 210 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0147] In some embodiments, the shaft 210 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0148] In some embodiments, the shaft 210 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along an entire length or a length 223 of the shaft 210. In this manner, the diameter or width 224 of the shaft 210 may also be constant / continuous along the length 223 of the shaft 210. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 210 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary' (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereol) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 223 of the shaft 210.

[0149] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 224 of the shaft 210 (and / or implant 200 or artificial articular surface 250) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 224 of the shaft 210 (and / or implant 200 or artificial articular surface 250) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0150] In some embodiments, the width 224 of the shaft 210 (or implant 200) may be less than the length 223 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 224 of the shaft 210 (or implant 200) may be equal to or greater than the length 223 of the shaft.

[0151] In some embodiments, the width 224 of the shaft 210 (or implant 200) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 223 of the shaft (or implant 200). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 224 of the shaft 210 (or implant 200) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 223 of the shaft (or implant 200).

[0152] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 250 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 251. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0153] In some embodiments, the width 251 of the artificial articular surface 250 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 224 of the shaft 210 (or implant 200). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 251 of the artificial articular surface 250 may be less than or greater than the width 224 of the shaft 210 (or implant 200).

[0154] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise a concave articular surface shape (indicated by the nadir 260 or lowest point of the artificial articular surface 250 in FIGS. 2 A and 2C). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0155] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 250 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 213 of the shaft 210. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 250 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 213 of the shaft 210 (e.g., sec FIGS. 3A-3C, as one non-limiting example).

[0156] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc ).

[0157] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0158] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0159] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0160] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 250 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, itwill be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 250 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0161] FIGS. 3 A-3C illustrate various views of an implant 300, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 3A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 300, FIG. 3B shows a side view of the implant 300, and FIG. 3C shows a proximal end view of the implant 300.

[0162] The implant 300 may generally include a shaft 310 having a proximal end 311 , a distal end 312, a longitudinal axis 313, and one or more shaft side surfaces 322. The implant 300 may also include an artificial articular surface 350 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 311 of the shaft 310.

[0163] In some embodiments, the shaft 310 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 310 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0164] In some embodiments, the shaft 310 may also include channels / slots. ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0165] In some embodiments, a majority of the shaft 310 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along a majority of a length 323 of the shaft 310. In this manner, the diameter or width 324 of the shaft 310 may also be constant / continuous along a majority of the length 323 of the shaft 310. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross- sectional shape / area of the shaft 310 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 323 of the shaft 310. For example, near the proximal end 311 of the shaft 310, the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 310 may be partially circular in shape due to the raised / ramped nature of the shaft 310 toward one side of the shaft 310.

[0166] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 324 of the shaft 310 (and / or implant 300 or artificial articular surface 350) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 324 of the shaft 310 (and / or implant 300 or artificial articular surface 350) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0167] In some embodiments, the width 324 of the shaft 310 (or implant 300) may be less than the length 323 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 324 of the shaft 310 (or implant 300) may be equal to or greater than the length 323 of the shaft.

[0168] In some embodiments, the width 324 of the shaft 310 (or implant 300) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 323 of the shaft (or implant 300). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 324 of the shaft 310 (or implant 300) may beequal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 323 of the shaft (or implant 300).

[0169] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 351 when viewed proximally. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 350 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0170] In some embodiments, the width 351 of the artificial articular surface 350 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 324 of the shaft 310 (or implant 300). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 351 of the artificial articular surface 350 may be less than or greater than the width 324 of the shaft 310 (or implant 300).

[0171] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0172] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may be oriented at an oblique angle 355 relative to the longitudinal axis 313 of the shaft 310, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 350 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 313 of the shaft 310.

[0173] In some embodiments, the oblique angle 355 may comprise any angle between zero degrees and ninety degrees. However, in some embodiments the oblique angle 355 may comprise any angle equal to. greater than, or less than, zero degrees and ninety degrees.

[0174] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0175] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0176] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0177] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0178] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 350 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 350 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0179] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate various views of an implant 400, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 4A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 400, FIG. 4B shows a side view of the implant 400, and FIG. 4C shows a proximal end view of the implant 400.

[0180] The implant 400 may generally include a shaft 410 having a proximal end 411. a distal end 412, a longitudinal axis 413, and one or more shaft side surfaces 422. The implant 400 may also include an artificial articular surface 450 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 411 of the shaft 410.

[0181] In some embodiments, the shaft 410 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 410 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0182] In some embodiments, the shaft 410 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0183] In some embodiments, the shaft 410 may generally comprise a tapered cylindrical shape having a continuously variable transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape along a length 423 of the shaft 410. In this manner, the diameter or width 424 of the shaft 410 may also continuously vary along the length 423 of the shaft 410. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 410 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereol). may be constant along any portion of the shaft 410 and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the shaft 410 (or any combinations thereof).

[0184] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 424 of the shaft 410 (and / or implant 400 or artificial articular surface 450) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 424 of the shaft 410 (and / or implant 400 or artificial articular surface 450) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0185] In some embodiments, the width 424 of the shaft 410 (or implant 400) anywhere along the length 423 of the shaft 410 may be less than the length 423 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 424 of the shaft 410 (or implant 100) anywhere along the length 423 of the shaft 410 may be equal to or greater than the length 423 of the shaft.

[0186] In some embodiments, the width 424 of the shaft 410 (or implant 400) anywhere along the length 423 of the shaft 410 may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length423 of tire shaft (or implant 400). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width424 of the shaft 410 (or implant 400) anywhere along the length 423 of the shaft 410 may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 423 of the shaft (or implant 400).

[0187] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 451. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 450 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0188] In some embodiments, the width 451 of the artificial articular surface 450 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 424 of the shaft 410 (or implant 400) proximal the artificial articular surface 450. However, it will be mrderstood that in some embodiments the width 451 of the artificial articular surface 450 may be less than the width 424 of the shaft 410.

[0189] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0190] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 413 of the shaft 410. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 450 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 413 of the shaft 410.

[0191] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0192] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc ).

[0193] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0194] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0195] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 450 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be mrderstood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 450 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0196] FIGS. 5 A-5C illustrate various views of an implant 500, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 5A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 500, FIG. 5B shows a side view of the implant 500, and FIG. 5C shows a proximal end view of the implant 500.

[0197] The implant 500 may generally include a shaft 510 having a proximal end 511 , a distal end 512, a longitudinal axis 513, and one or more shaft side surfaces 522. The implant 500 may also include a head portion or head 530 with one or more head side surfaces 532 which may be coupled to the shaft 510 at a transition zone 531, as well as an artificial articular surface 550 coupled to a superior surface of the head 530.

[0198] In some embodiments, the shaft 510 and / or head 530 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 510 and / or head 530 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0199] In some embodiments, the shaft 510 and / or head 530 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0200] In some embodiments, the shaft 510 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along a length 523 of the shaft 510. In this maimer, the diameter or width 524 of the shaft 510 may also be constant / continuous along the length 523 of the shaft 510. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 510 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereol). and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereol) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 523 of the shaft 510.

[0201] In some embodiments, the head 530 may generally comprise a tapered cylindrical shape having a continuously variable transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape. In this manner, the diameter or width of the head 530 may also continuously vary along the length of the head 530. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the transverse cross- sectional shape / area of the head 530 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), may be constant along any portion of the head 530 and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the head 530 (or any combinations thereof).

[0202] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 524 of the shaft 510 (and / or implant 500. head 530. artificial articular surface 550, etc.) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 524 of the shaft 510 (and / or implant 500, head 530, artificial articular surface 550, etc.) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0203] In some embodiments, the width 524 of the shaft 510 (and / or head 530) may be less than the length 523 of the shaft (or implant 500). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 524 of the shaft 510 (and / or head 530) may be equal to or greater than the length 523 of the shaft (or implant 500).

[0204] In some embodiments, the width 524 of the shaft 510 (and / or head 530) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 523 of the shaft (or implant 500). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 524 of the shaft 510 (and / or head 530) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 523 of the shaft (or implant 500).

[0205] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 551. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 550 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0206] In some embodiments, the width 551 of the artificial articular surface 550 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width of the head 530 (or the width 524 of the shaft 510)proximal the artificial articular surface 550. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 551 of the artificial articular surface 550 may be less than the width of the head 530 or the width 524 of the shaft 510.

[0207] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0208] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 513 of the shaft 510. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 550 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 513 of the shaft 510.

[0209] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0210] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0211] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0212] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0213] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 550 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 550 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0214] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate various views of an implant 600, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 6A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 600, FIG. 6B shows a side view of the implant 600, and FIG. 6C shows a proximal end view of the implant 600.

[0215] The implant 600 may generally include a shaft 610 having a proximal end 611, a distal end 612, a longitudinal axis 613, and one or more shaft side surfaces 622. The implant 600 may also include a head portion or head 630 with one or more head side surfaces 632 which may be coupled to the shaft 610 at a transition zone 631, as well as an artificial articular surface 650 coupled to a superior surface of the head 630.

[0216] In some embodiments, the shaft 610 and / or head 630 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 610 and / or head 630 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0217] In some embodiments, the shaft 610 and / or head 630 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0218] In some embodiments, the shaft 610 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along a length 623 of the shaft 610. In this maimer, the diameter or width 624 of the shaft 610 may also be constant / continuous along the length 623 of the shaft 610. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 610 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereol). and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereol) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 623 of the shaft 610.

[0219] In some embodiments, the head 630 may also comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape. In this manner, the diameter or width of the head 630 may also be constant / continuous along the length of the head 630. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the head 630 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), may be variable along any portion of the head 630 and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the head 630 (or any combinations thereof).

[0220] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 624 of the shaft 610 (and / or implant 600. head 630. artificial articular surface 650, etc.) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 624 of the shaft 610 (and / or implant 600, head 630, artificial articular surface 650, etc.) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0221] In some embodiments, the width 624 of the shaft 610 (and / or head 630) may be less than the length 623 of the shaft (or implant 600). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 624 of the shaft 610 (and / or head 630) may be equal to or greater than the length 623 of the shaft (or implant 600).

[0222] In some embodiments, the width 624 of the shaft 610 (and / or head 630) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 623 of the shaft (or implant 600). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 624 of the shaft 610 (and / or head 630) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 623 of the shaft (or implant 600).

[0223] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 651. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 650 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0224] In some embodiments, the width 651 of the artificial articular surface 650 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width of the head 630 (or the width 624 of the shaft 610)proximal the artificial articular surface 650. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 651 of the artificial articular surface 650 may be less than the width of the head 630 or the width 624 of the shaft 610.

[0225] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0226] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 613 of the shaft 610. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 650 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 613 of the shaft 610.

[0227] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0228] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0229] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0230] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0231] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 650 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 650 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0232] FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate various views of an implant 700, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 7A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 700, FIG. 7B shows a side view of the implant 700, and FIG. 7C shows a proximal end view of the implant 700.

[0233] The implant 700 may generally include a shaft 710 having a proximal end 711, a distal end 712, a longitudinal axis 713, and one or more shaft side surfaces 722. The implant 700 may also include an artificial articular surface 750 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 711 of the shaft 710.

[0234] In some embodiments, the shaft 710 may comprise a single integrally formed piece.

[0235] In some embodiments, the shaft 710 may include one or more holes, pores, fenestrations, transverse passageways 715, etc., formed therein that may be configured to receive bone, bone cement, and / or any other bone augment material(s) therein to increase fixation and / or to stimulate bone ingrowth / fusion therein. However, it will be understood that other embodiments may be solid throughout (e.g.. no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein).

[0236] In some embodiments, the shaft 710 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0237] In some embodiments, the shaft 710 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area (that may be somewhat modified by the presence of the transverse passageways 715) which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along a length 723 of the shaft 710. In this maimer, the diameter or width 724 of the shaft 710 may also be generally constant / continuous along the length 723 of the shaft 710. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 710 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 723 of the shaft 710.

[0238] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 724 of the shaft 710 (and / or implant 700 or artificial articular surface 750) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 724 of the shaft 710 (and / or implant 700 or artificial articular surface 750) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0239] In some embodiments, the width 724 of the shaft 710 (or implant 700) may be less than the length 723 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 724 of the shaft 710 (or implant 700) may be equal to or greater than the length 723 of the shaft.

[0240] In some embodiments, the width 724 of the shaft 710 (or implant 700) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 723 of the shaft (or implant 700). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 724 of the shaft 710 (or implant 700) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 723 of the shaft (or implant 700).

[0241] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 751. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 750 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0242] In some embodiments, the width 751 of the artificial articular surface 750 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 724 of tire shaft 710 (or implant 700). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 751 of the artificial articular surface 750 may be less than or greater than the width 724 of the shaft 710 (or implant 700).

[0243] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0244] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 713 of the shaft 710. However, in otherembodiments the artificial articular surface 750 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 713 of the shaft 710.

[0245] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc ).

[0246] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0247] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0248] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0249] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 750 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g.. with no holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein), as shown in FIGS. 7A-7C. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 750 may also include holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein.

[0250] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate various views of an implant 800, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically. FIG. 8A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 800. FIG. 8B shows a side view of the implant 800, and FIG. 8C shows a proximal end view of the implant 800.

[0251] The implant 800 may generally include a shaft 810 having a proximal end 811, a distal end 812, a longitudinal axis 813, and one or more shaft side surfaces 822. The implant 800 may also include an artificial articular surface 850 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 811 of the shaft 810.

[0252] In some embodiments, the shaft 810 may comprise a single integrally formed piece.

[0253] In some embodiments, the shaft 810 may include one or more longitudinal passageways 814 formed therethrough that may be configured to receive bone, bone cement, and / or any other bone augment material(s) therein to increase fixation and / or to stimulate bone ingrowth / fusion therein. However, it will be understood that other embodiments may be solid throughout (e.g., no longitudinal passageways 814 may be formed therethrough).

[0254] In some embodiments, the shaft 810 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0255] In some embodiments, the shaft 810 may generally comprise a hollow cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular or ring-like in shape and may extend along a length 823 of the shaft 810. In this maimer, the diameter or width 824 of the shaft 810 may also be generally constant / continuous along the length 823 of the shaft 810. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 810 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / ormay also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 823 of the shaft 810.

[0256] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 824 of the shaft 810 (and / or implant 800 or artificial articular surface 850) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 824 of the shaft 810 (and / or implant 800 or artificial articular surface 850) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0257] In some embodiments, the width 824 of the shaft 810 (or implant 800) may be less than the length 823 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 824 of the shaft 810 (or implant 800) may be equal to or greater than the length 823 of the shaft.

[0258] In some embodiments, the width 824 of the shaft 810 (or implant 800) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 823 of the shaft (or implant 800). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 824 of the shaft 810 (or implant 800) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 823 of the shaft (or implant 800).

[0259] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may be generally circular or ringlike in shape having a diameter or width 851. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 850 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0260] In some embodiments, the width 851 of the artificial articular surface 850 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 824 of the shaft 810 (or implant 800). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 851 of the artificial articular surface 850 may be less than or greater than the width 824 of the shaft 810 (or implant 800).

[0261] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0262] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 813 of the shaft 810. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 850 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 813 of the shaft 810.

[0263] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc ).

[0264] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0265] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0266] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0267] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 850 may include at least one hole, passageway, channel / slot, etc., formed therein, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 850 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g.. with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein).

[0268] FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate various views of an implant 900, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 9A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 900, FIG. 9B shows a side view of the implant 900, and FIG. 9C shows a proximal end view of the implant 900.

[0269] The implant 900 may generally include a shaft 910 having a proximal end 911, a distal end 912, a longitudinal axis 913, and one or more shaft side surfaces 922. The implant 900 may also include a head portion or head 930 with one or more head side surfaces 932 which may be coupled to the shaft 910 at a transition zone 931, as well as an artificial articular surface 950 coupled to a superior surface of the head 930.

[0270] In some embodiments, the shaft 910 and / or head 930 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 910 and / or head 930 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0271] In some embodiments, the shaft 910 (and / or head 930) may include one or more slots or transverse channels 917 formed therein between one or more transverse ribs 919 and / or the head 930 which may be configured to receive bone, bone cement, and / or any other bone augment material(s) therein to increase fixation and / or to stimulate bone ingrowth / fusion.

[0272] In some embodiments, the shaft 910 (and / or head 930) may also include other channcls / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0273] In some embodiments, the shaft 910 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area along portions of the length of the shaft 910 (i.e., due to the presence of the transverse channels 917 and / or transverse ribs 919 along the shaft 910), which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along a length 923 of the shaft 910. In this manner, the diameter or width 924 of the shaft 910 may also be constant / continuous along each individual portion of the length 923 of the shaft 910 such that the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 910 may discretely vary between larger and smaller circular shapes. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 910 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereol) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 923 of the shaft 910.

[0274] In some embodiments, the head 930 may also comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape. In this manner, the diameter or width of the head 930 may also be constant / continuous along the length of the head 930. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the head 930 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereol), may be variable along any portion of the head 930 and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the head 930 (or any combinations thereof).

[0275] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 924 of the shaft 910 (and / or implant 900, head 930, artificial articular surface 950, etc.) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 924 of the shaft 910 (and / or implant 900. head 930, artificial articular surface 950, etc.) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0276] In some embodiments, the width 924 of the shaft 910 (and / or head 930) may be less than the length 923 of the shaft (or implant 900). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 924 of the shaft 910 (and / or head 930) may be equal to or greater than the length 923 of the shaft (or implant 900).

[0277] In some embodiments, the width 924 of the shaft 910 (and / or head 930) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 923 of the shaft (or implant 900). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 924 of the shaft 910 (and / or head 930) may be equal to or greater than 0% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 923 of the shaft (or implant 900).

[0278] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 951. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 950 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0279] In some embodiments, the width 951 of the artificial articular surface 950 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width of the head 930 (or the width 924 of the shaft 910) proximal the artificial articular surface 950. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 951 of the artificial articular surface 950 may be less than the width of the head 930 or the width 924 of the shaft 910.

[0280] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0281] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 913 of the shaft 910. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 950 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 913 of the shaft 910.

[0282] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0283] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0284] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0285] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0286] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 950 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 950 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein.

[0287] FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate various views of an implant 1000, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 10A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1000, FIG. 10B shows a side view of the implant 1000. and FIG. 10C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1000.

[0288] The implant 1000 may generally include a shaft 1010 having a proximal end 1011, a distal end 1012, a longitudinal axis 1013, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1022. The implant 1000 may also include a head portion or head 1030 with one or more head side surfaces 1032 which may be coupled to the shaft 1010 at a transition zone 1031 , as well as an artificial articular surface 1050 coupled to a superior surface of the head 1030.

[0289] In some embodiments, the shaft 1010 and / or head 1030 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1010 and / or head 1030 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0290] In some embodiments, the shaft 1010 (and / or head 1030) may include a large transverse channel 1017 formed therein between a distal transverse rib 1019 and the head 1030 which may be configured to receive bone, bone cement, and / or any other bone augment material(s) therein to increase fixation and / or to stimulate bone ingrowth / fusion.

[0291] In some embodiments, the shaft 1010 (and / or head 1030) may also include other channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0292] In some embodiments, the shaft 1010 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area along portions of the length of the shaft 1010 (i.e., that may discretely increase at the distal transverse rib 1019). which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along a length 1023 of the shaft 1010. In this manner, the diameter or width 1024of the shaft 1010 (or distal transverse rib 1019) may also be constant / continuous along each individual portion of the length 1023 of the shaft 1010 and may vary discretely between a larger and smaller circular shape. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1010 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 1023 of the shaft 1010.

[0293] In some embodiments, the head 1030 may also comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape. In this manner, the diameter or width of the head 1030 may also be constant / continuous along the length of the head 1030. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the transverse cross- sectional shape / area of the head 1030 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereol). may be variable along any portion of tire head 1030 and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the head 1030 (or any combinations thereof).

[0294] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 1024 of the shaft 1010 (and / or implant 1000, head 1030. artificial articular surface 1050. distal transverse rib 1019 etc.) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1024 of the shaft 1010 (and / or implant 1000. head 1030, artificial articular surface 1050, distal transverse rib 1019. etc.) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0295] In some embodiments, the width 1024 of the shaft 1010 (and / or head 1030, distal transverse rib 1019, etc.) may be less than the length 1023 of the shaft (or implant 1000). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1024 of the shaft 1010 (and / or head 1030, distal transverse rib 1019, etc.) may be equal to or greater than the length 1023 of the shaft (or implant 1000).

[0296] In some embodiments, the width 1024 of the shaft 1010 (and / or head 1030, distal transverse rib 1019, etc.) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1023 of the shaft (or implant 1000). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1024 of the shaft 1010 (and / or head 1030, distal transverse rib 1019, etc.) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1023 of the shaft (or implant 1000).

[0297] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 1051. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1050 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0298] In some embodiments, the width 1051 of the artificial articular surface 1050 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width of the head 1030 proximal the artificial articular surface 1050. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1051 of the artificial articular surface 1050 may be less than the width of the head 1030.

[0299] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0300] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1013 of the shaft 1010. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1050 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1013 of the shaft 1010.

[0301] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0302] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0303] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0304] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0305] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1050 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1050 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0306] FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate various views of an implant 1100, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 11 A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1100, FIG. 1 IB shows a side view of the implant 1100, and FIG. 11C shows a distal end view of the implant 1100.

[0307] The implant 1100 may generally include a shaft 1110 having a proximal end 1111 , a distal end 1112, a longitudinal axis 1113, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1122. The implant 1100 may also include a head portion or head 1130 with one or more head side surfaces 1132 which may be coupled to the shaft 1110 at a transition zone 1131 , as well as an artificial articular surface 1150 coupled to a superior surface of the head 1130.

[0308] In some embodiments, the shaft 1110 and / or head 1130 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1110 and / or head 1130 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0309] In some embodiments, the shaft 1110 (and / or head 1130) may include one or more longitudinal ribs 1118 and / or longitudinal channels fonned thereon which may be configured to receive bone, bone cement, and / or any other bone augment material(s) therein to increase fixation and / or to stimulate bone ingrowth / fusion.

[0310] In some embodiments, the one or more longitudinal ribs 1118 may taper toward the distal end 1112 of the shaft 1110 and / or form one or more sharpened distal ends to facilitate insertion into bone. However, in other embodiments the one or more longitudinal ribs 1118 may taper toward the proximal end 1111 of the shaft 1110 and / or not taper at all.

[0311] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, four longitudinal ribs 1118 are shown with longitudinal channels 1117 positioned therebetween. However, it will be understood that any number of longitudinal ribs 1118 may be utilized with and number of longitudinal channels positioned therebetween.

[0312] In some embodiments, the shaft 1110 (and / or head 1130) may also include other channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0313] In some embodiments, the shaft 1110 may comprise a transverse cross-sectional shape / area that forms a cross-like shape. The transverse cross-sectional shape / area may continuously vary / decrease in size moving from the proximal end 1111 of the shaft 1110 toward the distal end 1112 of the shaft 1110. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1110 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), may be constant along the shaft 1110, may vary constantly / continuously along the shaft 1110 (or any combinations thereof), or may be discontinuous anywhere along the length 1123 of the shaft 1110.

[0314] In some embodiments, the head 1130 may comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape. In this manner, the diameter or width of the head 1130 may also be constant / continuous along the length of the head 1130. However, it will be understood tiiat in some embodiments the transverse cross- sectional shape / area of the head 1130 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thcrcol), may be variable along any portion of the head 1130, and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the head 1130 (or any combinations thereof).

[0315] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 1124 of the shaft 1110 (and / or implant 1100, head 1130, artificial articular surface 1150, etc.) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1124 of the shaft 1110 (and / or implant 1100, head 1130, artificial articular surface 1150, etc.) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0316] In some embodiments, the width 1124 of the shaft 1110 (and / or head 1130) may be less than the length 1123 of the shaft (or implant 1100). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1124 of the shaft 1110 (and / or head 1130) may be equal to or greater than the length 1123 of the shaft (or implant 1100).

[0317] In some embodiments, the width 1124 of the shaft 1110 (and / or head 1130) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1123 of the shaft (or implant 1100). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1124 of the shaft 1110 (and / or head1130) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1123 of the shaft (or implant 1100).

[0318] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 1151. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1150 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0319] In some embodiments, the width 1151 of the artificial articular surface 1150 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width of the head 1130 proximal the artificial articular surface 1150. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1151 of the artificial articular surface 1150 may be less than the width of the head 1130.

[0320] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0321] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1113 of the shaft 1110. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1150 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1113 of the shaft 1110.

[0322] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0323] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0324] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0325] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0326] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1150 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1150 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0327] FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate various views of an implant 1200, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 12A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1200; FIG. 12B shows a side view of the implant 1200; and FIG. 12C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1200.

[0328] The implant 1200 may generally include a shaft 1210 having a proximal end 1211. a distal end 1212. a longitudinal axis 1213, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1222. The implant 1200 mayalso include an artificial articular surface 1250 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 1211 of the shaft 1210.

[0329] In some embodiments, the implant 1200 may also include one or more compression ramps 1220 coupled to the one or more shaft side surfaces 1222 of the shaft 1210 of the implant 1200. The one or more compression ramps 1220 may be shaped to angle / project outwardly from the shaft 1210 in the proximal direction in order to compress bone and / or create an interference fit against the sides of a bone tunnel when the implant 1200 is inserted therein.

[0330] In some embodiments, the implant 1200 may include four compression ramps 1220. However, it will be understood that any number of compression ramps 1220 may be utilized.

[0331] In some embodiments, the shaft 1210 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1210 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0332] In some embodiments, the shaft 1210 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0333] In some embodiments, the shaft 1210 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a generally constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape (modified slightly by the presence of the one or more compression ramps 1220) along a length 1223 or a portion of the length 1223 of the shaft 1210. In this maimer, the diameter or width 1224 of the shaft 1210 may also be generally constant / continuous along the length 1223 of the shaft 1210 (modified slightly by the presence of the one or more compression ramps 1220). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1210 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous any where along any portion of the length 1223 of the shaft 1210.

[0334] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (and / or implant 1200 or artificial articular surface 1250) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (and / or implant 1200 or artificial articular surface 1250) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0335] In some embodiments, the width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (or implant 1200) may be less than the length 1223 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (or implant 1200) may be equal to or greater than the length 1223 of the shaft.

[0336] In some embodiments, the width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (or implant 1200) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1223 of the shaft (or implant 1200). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (or implant 1200) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1223 of the shaft (or implant 1200).

[0337] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 1251 (modified slightly by the presence of the one or more compression ramps 1220). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1250 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0338] In some embodiments, the width 1251 of the artificial articular surface 1250 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (or implant 1200). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1251 of the artificial articular surface 1250 may be less than or greater than the width 1224 of the shaft 1210 (or implant 1200).

[0339] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0340] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1213 of the shaft 1210. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1250 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1213 of the shaft 1210.

[0341] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g.. a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc ).

[0342] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0343] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0344] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0345] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1250 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1250 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0346] FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate various views of an implant 1300, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 13A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1300, FIG. 13B shows a side view of the implant 1300, and FIG. 13C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1300.

[0347] The implant 1300 may generally include a shaft 1310 having a proximal end 1311. a distal end 1312. a longitudinal axis 1313, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1322. The implant 1300 may also include an artificial articular surface 1350 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 1311 of the shaft 1310.

[0348] In some embodiments, the implant 1300 may also include one or more anti-backout features 1321 coupled to the one or more shaft side surfaces 1322 of the shaft 1310 of the implant 1300. The one or more anti-backout features 1321 may be shaped to angle / project outw ardly from the shaft 1310 in the proximal direction in order to compress bone and / or create an interference fit against the sides of a bone tunnel when the implant 1300 is inserted therein. The proximal facing surfaces on each of the one or more anti-backout features 1321 may also function as the one or more anti-backout features 1321 by digging into the bone and / or resisting withdrawal from the bone tunnel.

[0349] In some embodiments, the implant 1300 may include four anti-backout features 1321. However, it will be understood that any number of anti-backout features 1321 may be utilized.

[0350] In some embodiments, the shaft 1310 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1310 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0351] In some embodiments, the shaft 1310 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0352] In some embodiments, the shaft 1310 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a generally constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape (modified slightly by the presence of the one or more anti-backout features 1321) along a length 1323 or a portion of the length 1323 of the shaft 1310. In this maimer, the diameter or w idth 1324 of the shaft 1310 may also be generally constant / continuous along the length 1323 of the shaft 1310 (modified slightly by the presence of the one or more anti-backout features 1321). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1310 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereol), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous any where along any portion of the length 1323 of the shaft 1310.

[0353] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (and / or implant 1300 or artificial articular surface 1350) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (and / or implant 1300 or artificial articular surface 1350) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0354] In some embodiments, the width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (or implant 1300) may be less than the length 1323 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (or implant 1300) may be equal to or greater than the length 1323 of the shaft.

[0355] In some embodiments, the width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (or implant 1300) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1323 of the shaft (or implant 1300). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (or implant 1300) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1323 of the shaft (or implant 1300).

[0356] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may be generally circular in shape having a diameter or width 13 1. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1350 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0357] In some embodiments, the width 1351 of the artificial articular surface 1350 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (or implant 1300). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1351 of the artificial articular surface 1350 may be less than or greater than the width 1324 of the shaft 1310 (or implant 1300).

[0358] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0359] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1313 of the shaft 1310. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1350 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1313 of the shaft 1310.

[0360] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g.. a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc ).

[0361] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0362] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0363] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0364] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1350 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1350 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0365] FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate various views of an implant 1400, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 14A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1400, FIG. 14B shows a side view of the implant 1400, and FIG. 14C shows a distal end view of the implant 1400.

[0366] The implant 1400 may generally include a shaft 1410 and / or one or more longitudinal support members 1440 coupled to the shaft 1410 and extending proximally / outwardly therefrom forming a proximal end 1411, a distal end 1412. a longitudinal axis 1413, and one or more support member and / or shaft side surfaces 1422. The implant 1400 may also include a head portion or head 1430 with one or more head side surfaces 1432 which may be coupled to the one or more longitudinalsupport members 1440 at a transition zone 1431, as well as an artificial articular surface 1450 coupled to a superior surface of the head 1430.

[0367] In some embodiments, the shaft 1410, the one or more longitudinal support members 1440, and / or head 1430 may comprise a single integrally formed piece.

[0368] In some embodiments, the one or more longitudinal support members 1440 may include one or more windows 1441 positioned therebetween.

[0369] In some embodiments, the one or more longitudinal support members 1440 may comprise three longitudinal support members 1440 and the one or more windows 1441 may comprise three windows 1441. However, it will be understood that any number of windows may be utilized.

[0370] In some embodiments, the shaft 1410 and / or the head 1430 may also include a longitudinal passageway 1414 formed therein.

[0371] In some embodiments, the one or more windows 1441 and / or the longitudinal passageway 1414 may be configured to receive bone, bone cement, and / or any other bone augment material(s) therein to increase fixation and / or to stimulate bone ingrowth / fusion.

[0372] In some embodiments, the shaft 1410. the head 1430. and / or the one or more longitudinal support members 1440 may also include other channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0373] In some embodiments, the implant 1200 may comprise a ring-shaped transverse cross- sectional shape / area at the head 1430, a tapering transverse cross-sectional shape / area at the one or more longitudinal support members 1440 (e.g., see FIG. 14C), and a circular transverse cross-sectional shape / area toward the distal end of the shaft 1410. The transverse cross-sectional shapes / areas may be constant in some areas and continuously vary / decrease in size in other areas.

[0374] In some embodiments, the head 1430 may comprise a cylindrical ring shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be ring-like in shape. In this maimer, the diameter or w idth of the head 1430 may also be constant / continuous along the length of the head 1430. How ever, it will be understood that in some embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the head 1430 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), may be variable along any portion of the head 1430, and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the head 1430 (or any combinations thereof).

[0375] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 1424 of the shaft 1410 (and / or longitudinal support members 1440, head 1430, artificial articular surface 1450, implant 1400, etc.) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1424 of the shaft 1410 (and / or longitudinal support members 1440, head 1430, artificial articular surface 1450. implant 1400, etc.) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0376] In some embodiments, the width 1424 of the shaft 1410 may be less than the length 1423 of the shaft 1410 and / or the longitudinal support members 1440. How ever, it will be understood that insome embodiments the width 1424 of the shaft 1410 may be equal to or greater than the length 1423 of the shaft and / or the longitudinal support members 1440.

[0377] In some embodiments, the width 1424 of the shaft 1410 (and / or the head 1430) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1423 of the shaft (and / or the longitudinal support members 1440 or the implant 1400). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1424 of the shaft 1410 (and / or the head 1430) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the shaft (and / or the longitudinal support members 1440 or the implant 1400).

[0378] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may be generally circular and ring-like in shape having a diameter or width 1451. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1450 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0379] In some embodiments, the width 1451 of the artificial articular surface 1450 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width of the head 1430 proximal the artificial articular surface 1450. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1451 of the artificial articular surface 1450 may be less than the width of the head 1430.

[0380] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0381] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1413 of the shaft 1410. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1450 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1413 of the shaft 1410.

[0382] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may comprise a single radius of curvature (c.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0383] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0384] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0385] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0386] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1450 may comprise additional holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0387] FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate various views of an implant 1500, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 15A shows a perspective proximal end viewof the implant 1500, FIG. 15B shows a side view of the implant 1500, and FIG. 15C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1500.

[0388] The implant 1500 may generally include a shaft 1510 having a proximal end 1511 , a distal end 1512, a longitudinal axis 1513, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1522. The implant 1500 may also include a head portion or head 1530 with one or more head side surfaces 1532 which may be coupled to the shaft 1510 at a transition zone 1531 , as well as an artificial articular surface 1550 coupled to a superior surface of the head 1530.

[0389] In some embodiments, the shaft 1510 and / or head 1530 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1510 and / or head 1530 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0390] In some embodiments, the shaft 1510 and / or head 1530 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0391] In some embodiments, the shaft 1510 may generally comprise a cylindrical shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally circular in shape and may extend along a length 1523 of the shaft 1510. In this manner, the diameter or width 1524 of the shaft 1510 may also be constant / continuous along the length 1523 of the shaft 1510. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1510 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 1523 of the shaft 1510.

[0392] In some embodiments, the head 1530 may comprise a hexagonal shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally hexagonal in shape. In this manner, the diameter or width of the head 1530 may also be constant / continuous along the length of the head 1530. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the transverse cross- sectional shape / area of the head 1530 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), may be variable along any portion of tire head 1530 and / or may be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the head 1530 (or any combinations thereof).

[0393] In some embodiments, the diameter or width 1524 of the shaft 1510 (and / or implant 1500, head 1530, artificial articular surface 1550, etc.) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1524 of the shaft 1510 (and / or implant 1500, head 1530, artificial articular surface 1550, etc.) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0394] In some embodiments, the width 1524 of the shaft 1510 (and / or head 1530) may be less than the length 1523 of the shaft (or implant 1500). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1524 of the shaft 1510 (and / or head 1530) may be equal to or greater than the length 1523 of the shaft (or implant 1500).

[0395] In some embodiments, the width 1524 of the shaft 1510 (and / or head 1530) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1523 of the shaft (or implant 1500). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1524 of the shaft 1510 (and / or head 1530) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1523 of the shaft (or implant 1500).

[0396] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may be generally hexagonal in shape having a width 1551. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1550 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0397] In some embodiments, the width 1551 of the artificial articular surface 1550 may be greater than or equal to (or substantially equal to) the width of the head 1530 (or the width 1524 of the shaft 1510) proximal the artificial articular surface 1550. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1551 of the artificial articular surface 1550 may be less than the width of the head 1530 or the width 1524 of the shaft 1510.

[0398] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0399] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1513 of the shaft 1510. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1550 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1513 of the shaft 1510.

[0400] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0401] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may comprise multiple radii of curv ature (c.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0402] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may v ary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0403] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0404] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1550 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1550 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0405] FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate various views of an implant 1600, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 16A shows a perspective proximal end viewof the implant 1600, FIG. 16B shows a side view of the implant 1600, and FIG. 16C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1600.

[0406] The implant 1600 may generally include a shaft 1610 having a proximal end 1611, a distal end 1612, a longitudinal axis 1613, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1622. The implant 1600 may also include an artificial articular surface 1650 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 1611 of the shaft 1610.

[0407] In some embodiments, the shaft 1610 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1610 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., fonned therein.

[0408] In some embodiments, the shaft 1610 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0409] In some embodiments, the shaft 1610 may generally comprise a triangular shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally triangular in shape and may extend along an entire length or a length 1623 of the shaft 1610. In this manner, the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 may also be constant / continuous along the length 1623 of the shaft 1610. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1610 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 1623 of the shaft 1610.

[0410] In some embodiments, the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (and / or implant 1600 or artificial articular surface 1650) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (and / or implant 1600 or artificial articular surface 1650) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0411] In some embodiments, the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (and / or implant 1600 or artificial articular surface 1650) may be less than the length 1623 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (and / or implant 1600 or artificial articular surface 1650) may be equal to or greater than the length 1623 of the shaft.

[0412] In some embodiments, the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (and / or implant 1600 or artificial articular surface 1650) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1623 of the shaft (or implant 1600). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (and / or implant 1600 or artificial articular surface 1650) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1623 of the shaft (or implant 1600).

[0413] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may be generally triangular in shape having a width 1651. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificialarticular surface 1650 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0414] In some embodiments, the width 1651 of the artificial articular surface 1650 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (or implant 1600). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1651 of the artificial articular surface 1650 may be less than or greater than the width 1624 of the shaft 1610 (or implant 1600).

[0415] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0416] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1613 of the shaft 1610. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1650 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1613 of the shaft 1610.

[0417] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g.. a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0418] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0419] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0420] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0421] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1650 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1650 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0422] FIGS. 17A-17C illustrate various views of an implant 1700, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 17A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1700, FIG. 17B show s a side view of the implant 1700, and FIG. 17C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1700.

[0423] The implant 1700 may generally include a shaft 1710 having a proximal end 1711. a distal end 1712, a longitudinal axis 1713, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1722. The implant 1700 may also include an artificial articular surface 1750 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 1711 of the shaft 1710.

[0424] In some embodiments, the shaft 1710 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, itwill be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1710 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0425] In some embodiments, the shaft 1710 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0426] In some embodiments, the shaft 1710 may generally comprise a rectangular, square, or quadrilateral shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally rectangular, square, or quadrilateral in shape and may extend along an entire length or a length 1723 of the shaft 1710. In this manner, the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 may also be constant / continuous along the length 1723 of the shaft 1710. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1710 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 1723 of the shaft 1710.

[0427] In some embodiments, the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (and / or implant 1700 or artificial articular surface 1750) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (and / or implant 1700 or artificial articular surface 1750) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0428] In some embodiments, the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (and / or implant 1700 or artificial articular surface 1750) may be less than the length 1723 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (and / or implant 1700 or artificial articular surface 1750) may be equal to or greater than the length 1723 of the shaft.

[0429] In some embodiments, the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (and / or implant 1700 or artificial articular surface 1750) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1723 of the shaft (or implant 1700). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (and / or implant 1700 or artificial articular surface 1750) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1723 of the shaft (or implant 1700).

[0430] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may be generally rectangular, square, or quadrilateral in shape having a width 1751. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1750 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0431] In some embodiments, the width 1751 of the artificial articular surface 1750 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (or implant 1700). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1751 of the artificial articular surface 1750 may be less than or greater than the width 1724 of the shaft 1710 (or implant 1700).

[0432] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0433] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1713 of the shaft 1710. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1750 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1713 of the shaft 1710.

[0434] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0435] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0436] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0437] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0438] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1750 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1750 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0439] FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate various views of an implant 1800, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 18A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1800, FIG. 18B shows a side view of the implant 1800, and FIG. 18C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1800.

[0440] The implant 1800 may generally include a shaft 1810 having a proximal end 1811, a distal end 1812, a longitudinal axis 1813, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1822. The implant 1800 may also include an artificial articular surface 1850 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 1811 of the shaft 1810.

[0441] In some embodiments, the shaft 1810 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1810 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., fonned therein.

[0442] In some embodiments, the shaft 1810 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0443] In some embodiments, the shaft 1810 may generally comprise a pentagonal shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally pentagonal in shape and may extend along an entire length or a length 1823 of the shaft 1810. In this manner, the width 1824of the shaft 1810 may also be constant / continuous along the length 1823 of the shaft 1810. However, it will be understood drat in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1810 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 1823 of the shaft 1810.

[0444] In some embodiments, the width 1824 of the shaft 1810 (and / or implant 1800 or artificial articular surface 1850) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1824 of the shaft 1810 (and / or implant 1800 or artificial articular surface 1850) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0445] In some embodiments, the width 1824 of the shaft 1810 (and / or implant 1800 or artificial articular surface 1850) may be less than the length 1823 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1824 of the shaft 1810 (and / or implant 1800 or artificial articular surface 1850) may be equal to or greater than the length 1823 of the shaft.

[0446] In some embodiments, the width 1824 of the shaft 1810 (and / or implant 1800 or artificial articular surface 1850) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1823 of the shaft (or implant 1800). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1824 of the shaft 1810 (and / or implant 1800 or artificial articular surface 1850) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1823 of the shaft (or implant 1800).

[0447] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may be generally pentagonal in shape having a width 1851. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1850 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0448] In some embodiments, the width 1851 of the artificial articular surface 1850 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 1824 of the shaft 1810 (or implant 1800). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1851 of the artificial articular surface 1850 may be less than or greater than the w idth 1824 of the shaft 1810 (or implant 1800).

[0449] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0450] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1813 of the shaft 1810. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1850 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1813 of the shaft 1810.

[0451] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0452] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0453] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0454] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0455] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1850 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1850 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0456] FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate various views of an implant 1900, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 19A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 1900; FIG. 19B shows a side view of the implant 1900; and FIG. 19C shows a proximal end view of the implant 1900.

[0457] The implant 1900 may generally include a shaft 1910 having a proximal end 1911, a distal end 1912, a longitudinal axis 1913, and one or more shaft side surfaces 1922. The implant 1900 may also include an artificial articular surface 1950 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 1911 of the shaft 1910.

[0458] In some embodiments, the shaft 1910 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 1910 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0459] In some embodiments, the shaft 1910 may also include channels / slots, ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0460] In some embodiments, the shaft 1910 may generally comprise a hexagonal shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally hexagonal in shape and may extend along an entire length or a length 1923 of the shaft 1910. In this manner, the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 may also be constant / continuous along the length 1923 of the shaft 1910. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 1910 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary', continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 1923 of the shaft 1910.

[0461] In some embodiments, the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (and / or implant 1900 or artificial articular surface 1950) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (and / or implant 1900 or artificial articular surface 1950) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0462] In some embodiments, the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (and / or implant 1900 or artificial articular surface 1950) may be less than the length 1923 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (and / or implant 1900 or artificial articular surface 1950) may be equal to or greater than the length 1923 of the shaft.

[0463] In some embodiments, the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (and / or implant 1900 or artificial articular surface 1950) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 1923 of the shaft (or implant 1900). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (and / or implant 1900 or artificial articular surface 1950) may be equal to or greater than 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 1923 of the shaft (or implant 1900).

[0464] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may be generally hexagonal in shape having a width 1951. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1950 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0465] In some embodiments, the width 1951 of the artificial articular surface 1950 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (or implant 1900). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 1951 of the artificial articular surface 1950 may be less than or greater than the width 1924 of the shaft 1910 (or implant 1900).

[0466] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0467] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 1913 of the shaft 1910. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1950 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 1913 of the shaft 1910.

[0468] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc ).

[0469] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0470] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0471] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0472] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 1950 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, channels / slots. etc., formed therein).However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 1950 may include holes, passageways, channels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0473] FIGS. 20A-20C illustrate various views of an implant 2000, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 20A shows a perspective proximal end view of the implant 2000, FIG. 20B shows a side view of the implant 2000, and FIG. 20C shows a proximal end view of the implant 2000.

[0474] The implant 2000 may generally include a shaft 2010 having a proximal end 2011. a distal end 2012, a longitudinal axis 2013, and one or more shaft side surfaces 2022. The implant 2000 may also include an artificial articular surface 2050 coupled to the head of the implant (if present) or coupled to the proximal end 2011 of the shaft 2010.

[0475] In some embodiments, the shaft 2010 may comprise a single integrally formed piece that may be solid throughout (e.g., no holes, passageways, pores, etc., may be formed therein). However, it will be understood that other embodiments of the shaft 2010 may include holes, passageways, pores, etc., formed therein.

[0476] In some embodiments, the shaft 2010 may also include channels / slots. ribs, coatings, additional features, etc., similar to other implant embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein.

[0477] In some embodiments, the shaft 2010 may generally comprise an octagonal shape having a constant / continuous transverse cross-sectional shape / area which may be generally octagonal in shape and may extend along an entire length or a length 2023 of the shaft 2010. In this manner, the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 may also be constant / continuous along the length 2023 of the shaft 2010. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the transverse cross-sectional shape / area of the shaft 2010 may comprise any curved shape, polygonal shape, (or any combinations thereof), and / or may also vary (e.g., constantly vary, continuously vary, or any combinations thereof) or be discontinuous anywhere along any portion of the length 2023 of the shaft 2010.

[0478] In some embodiments, the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (and / or implant 2000 or artificial articular surface 2050) may range from about 3 mm to about 20 mm. However it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (and / or implant 2000 or artificial articular surface 2050) may be less than 3 mm or greater than 20 mm.

[0479] In some embodiments, the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (and / or implant 2000 or artificial articular surface 2050) may be less than the length 2023 of the shaft. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (and / or implant 2000 or artificial articular surface 2050) may be equal to or greater than the length 2023 of the shaft.

[0480] In some embodiments, the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (and / or implant 2000 or artificial articular surface 2050) may be less than 50% (or any other percentage below 50%) of the length 2023 of the shaft (or implant 2000). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (and / or implant 2000 or artificial articular surface 2050) may be equal to or greaterthan 50% (or any other percentage equal to or above 50%) of the length 2023 of the shaft (or implant 2000).

[0481] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may be generally octagonal in shape having a width 2051. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 2050 may comprise any curved shape, any polygonal shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0482] In some embodiments, the width 2051 of the artificial articular surface 2050 may be equal to (or substantially equal to) the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (or implant 2000). However, it will be understood that in some embodiments the width 2051 of the artificial articular surface 2050 may be less than or greater than the width 2024 of the shaft 2010 (or implant 2000).

[0483] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may comprise at least one of: a concave articular surface shape, a convex articular surface shape, a flat articular surface shape, or any combinations thereof.

[0484] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may be oriented perpendicular to (or substantially perpendicular to) the longitudinal axis 2013 of the shaft 2010. However, in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 2050 may be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis 2013 of the shaft 2010.

[0485] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may comprise a single radius of curvature (e.g., a single concave radius of curvature, a single convex radius of curvature, etc.).

[0486] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (e.g., multiple concave radii of curvature, multiple convex radii of curvature, any combinations thereof, etc.).

[0487] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may comprise one or more variable radii of curvature which may vary at a constant rate, or at a continuously variable rate.

[0488] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may comprise one or more faceted surfaces of any size which may be curved, flat, or any combinations thereof.

[0489] In some embodiments, the artificial articular surface 2050 may comprise a single continuous articular surface (e.g., with no holes, passageways, chaimels / slots. etc., formed therein). However, it will be understood that in other embodiments the artificial articular surface 2050 may include holes, passageways, chamiels / slots, etc., formed therein.

[0490] FIGS. 21-28 illustrate various bone tunnel configurations that may be utilized in certain surgical procedures to repair a natural articular surface 2 of a joint bone 1 (e.g., a glenoid surface of a scapula bone in this example), according to some non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. However, it will be understood that any number of different bone tunnel configurations may be utilized in any number of different surgical procedures / scenarios to repair a natural articular surface 2 of a given joint bone 1 of a patient. For example, one or more of the bone tunnels may also include a countersink or counterbore feature corresponding to the shape of the head 530 and / or the head 630 shown in FIGS.5A-6C, one or more of the bone tunnels may be formed by a hole saw that creates a ring-shaped bone tunnel with a centrally located bone plug that may be received within the longitudinal passageway 814 of the implant 800 shown in FIGS. 8A-8C comprising a tube-shape, etc.

[0491] In some examples of the surgical procedure, the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 may (or may not) be reamed with a suitable reamer tool (not shown) prior to (or after) the one or more bone tunnels 3 are formed in the joint bone 1.

[0492] The one or more bone tunnels 3 may be formed in the joint bone 1 according to any desired pattern, arrangement, number of implants, relative spacing between implants, size / diameter, shape(s), depth(s), angle(s) / orientation(s) into the joint bone 1 (e.g., any oblique or perpendicular angle(s) / orientation(s) with respect to the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1, etc.) in order to achieve optimal support, fixation, mechanical stability, and articular function for a given joint bone in view of the condition of the joint bone 1. the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1, the health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0493] The one or more bone tunnels 3 may be formed in the joint bone 1 with any suitable tool(s) or their associated guides (e.g., any bone drills, reamers, bone saws, hole saws, broaches, etc., and their associated guides, if any) to form any bone tunnel shape(s), size(s), depth(s). angle(s), orientation(s), spacing(s). etc., that may be desired for a given patient in view of a selected implant repair system. For example, a specialized drill guide (not shown) may be configured to guide the placement(s). spacing(s), orientation(s) / angle(s), sizes(s). depth(s), etc., of one or more bone tunnels 3 for a selected implant system in view of a certain joint bone 1. In this manner, any number of different specialized drill guides may be created for any number of different joint bone applications and / or desired implant system arrangements for a given joint bone application. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, a specialized adjustable drill guide (not shown) may allow for variable placement(s), spacing(s), orientation(s) / angle(s), sizes(s), depth(s), etc., to reduce the number of drill guide components. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, any bone tunnel 3 may be placed free hand by the surgeon, as desired.

[0494] FIG. 21 shows a joint bone 1 (e g., a scapula) with a natural articular surface 2 (e.g., a glenoid surface), prior to the formation of any bone tunnels 3 therein.

[0495] FIG. 22 shows the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with three bone tunnels 3 formed therein at a first location 21, a second location 22, and a third location 23, according to an example arrangement of the present disclosure. In this manner, any of the implants that are disclosed or contemplated herein may be inserted into these bone tunnels to replace various portions of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 and repair the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 at each of the first location 21, the second location 22, the third location 23, etc., as desired in view of a given condition of the joint bone 1. the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1, the particular health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0496] FIG. 23 shows the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with an alternative arrangement, spacing, and size of the three bone tunnels 3 formed therein, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure (e.g., smaller bone tunnels 3 that are more spaced apart in comparison to the bone tunnels 3 shown in FIG. 22). In like manner, any of the implants that are disclosed or contemplated herein may be inserted into these bone tunnels to replace various portions of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 and repair the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 at each of a first location 21, a second location 22, a third location 23, etc., as desired in view of a given condition of the joint bone 1, the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1, the particular health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0497] FIG. 24 shows the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with an alternative arrangement / spacing of the three bone tunnels 3 formed therein, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure (e.g., similar bone tunnel 3 sizes that are spaced closer together in comparison to the bone tunnels 3 shown in FIG. 22). In like manner, any of the implants that are disclosed or contemplated herein may be inserted into these bone tunnels to replace various portions of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 and repair the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 at each of a first location 21, a second location 22. a third location 23, etc., as desired in view of a given condition of the joint bone 1, the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1. the particular health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0498] FIG. 25 shows the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with an alternative size and spacing of the three bone tunnels 3 formed therein, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure (e.g., larger bone tunnel 3 sizes that are spaced closer together in comparison to the bone tunnels 3 shown in FIG. 22). In like manner, any of the implants that are disclosed or contemplated herein may be inserted into these bone tunnels to replace various portions of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 and repair the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 at each of a first location 21, a second location 22, a third location 23, etc., as desired in view of a given condition of the joint bone 1, the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1, the particular health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0499] FIG. 26 shows the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with an alternative sizing arrangement of the three bone tunnels 3 formed therein, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure (e.g., one larger bone tunnel is utilized on top with the two lower bone tunnels spaced closer together in comparison to the bone tunnels 3 shown in FIG. 22). In like manner, any of the implants that are disclosed or contemplated herein may be inserted into these bone tunnels to replace various portions of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 and repair the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 at each of a first location 21. a second location 22, a third location 23, etc., as desired in view of a given condition of the joint bone 1, the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1, the particular health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0500] FIG. 27 shows the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with an alternative number and arrangement of bone tunnels 3 formed therein, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure (e.g., four bone tunnels 3 in comparison to the three bone tunnels 3 shown in FIG. 22). In like manner, any of the implants that are disclosed or contemplated herein may be inserted into these bone tunnels to replace various portions of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 and repair the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 at each of a first location 21, a second location 22, a third location 23, a fourth location 24, etc., as desired in view of a given condition of the joint bone 1, the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1, the particular health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0501] FIG. 28 shows the scapula bone of FIG. 21 with an alternative number and arrangement of bone tunnels 3 formed therein, according to another example arrangement of the present disclosure (e.g., five smaller bone tunnels 3 in comparison to the three bone tunnels 3 shown in FIG. 22). In like manner, any of the implants that are disclosed or contemplated herein may be inserted into these bone tunnels to replace various portions of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 and repair the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 at each of a first location 21 , a second location 22. a third location 23, a fourth location 24. a fifth location, etc., as desired in view of a given condition of the joint bone 1, the degraded nature of the natural articular surface 2 on the joint bone 1, the particular health / age / characteristics of the patient, etc.

[0502] FIGS. 29-34 illustrate various interference fit configmations that may increase fixation within a bone tunnel 3 for various of the implants disclosed herein, as some non-limiting examples. However, it will be understood that any number of different interference fit configurations may be utilized to increase fixation within a given bone tunnel 3 without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0503] FIG. 29 shows the implant 1600 from FIGS. 16A-16C placed within an undersized bone tunnel 3 such that three interference projections 2933 or portions of the implant 1600 press into the bone surrounding the bone tunnel 3 to increase fixation of the implant 1600 therein.

[0504] FIG. 30 shows the implant 1700 from FIGS. 17A-17C placed within an undersized bone tunnel 3 such that four interference projections 3033 or portions of the implant 1600 press into the bone surrounding the bone tunnel 3 to increase fixation of the implant 1700 therein.

[0505] FIG. 31 shows the implant 1800 from FIGS. 18A-18C placed within an undersized bone tunnel 3 such that five interference projections 3133 or portions of the implant 1800 press into the bone surrounding the bone tunnel 3 to increase fixation of the implant 1800 therein.

[0506] FIG. 32 shows the implant 1900 from FIGS. 19A-19C placed within an undersized bone tunnel 3 such that six interference projections 3233 or portions of the implant 1900 press into the bone surrounding the bone tunnel 3 to increase fixation of the implant 1900 therein.

[0507] FIG. 33 shows the implant 2000 from FIGS. 20A-20C placed within an undersized bone tunnel 3 such that eight interference projections 3333 or portions of the implant 2000 press into the bone surrounding the bone tunnel 3 to increase fixation of the implant 2000 therein.

[0508] FIG. 34 shows the implant 1200 from FIGS. 12A-12C placed within an undersized bone tunnel 3 such that eight interference projections 3433 or portions of the implant 1200 press into the bone surrounding the bone tunnel 3 to increase fixation of the implant 1200 therein.

[0509] FIGS. 35-42 illustrate various articular surface repair systems, according to some nonlimiting examples of the present disclosure.

[0510] FIG. 35 shows a perspective cross-sectional side view of a joint bone 1 with a natural articular surface 2 and two bone tunnels 3 formed therein. The two bone tunnels 3 in FIG. 35 are shown with perpendicular (or substantially perpendicular) orientations / angles with respect to the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1.

[0511] FIG. 36 shows the joint bone 1 of FIG. 35 with an articular surface repair system 10 installed therein comprising two implants (e.g., implants similar to the implant 300 shown in FIGS. 3 A- 3C in this example) placed within the two perpendicular bone tunnels 3 that are formed in the joint bone 1. As can be seen in FIG. 36, the two implants 300 may be placed within the bone tunnels such that their longitudinal axes may be perpendicular (or substantially perpendicular) to the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 or a radius 15 associated with the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. FIG. 36 also shows how the implants 300 may be placed within the bone tunnels 3 such that the two artificial articular surfaces 350 of the implants 300 may be aligned with (or at flush heights 16 with) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 to match the shape and / or radius 15 of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. This may be accomplished with the aid of a specialized inserter tool (not shown) that may simultaneously (or one at a time) guide placement of the two implants 300 into the tw o perpendicular bone tunnels 3 such that both of the artificial articular surfaces 350 may be aligned with (or at flush heights with) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 to match the shape or radius 15 of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. This specialized inserter tool may utilize guiding notches and / or corresponding guiding channels formed on the specialized inserter tool and / or formed on the implants to help couple each implant to the specialized inserter tool and guide each individual implant's orientation and / or insertion height with respect to other implants within the implant system, and / or with respect to the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1, as the implants are guided into each of their respective bone tunnels by the specialized inserter tool.

[0512] FIG. 37 shows the joint bone 1 of FIG. 35 with an articular surface repair system 11 installed therein comprising two implants (e.g., implants similar to the implant 300 shown in FIGS. 3 A- 3C in this example) placed within the two perpendicular bone tunnels 3 that are fonned in the joint bone 1. As can be seen in FIG. 37, the implants 300 may be placed within the bone tunnels 3 such that the two artificial articular surfaces 350 of the implants 300 may be slightly proud of (or at protruding heights 17 with respect to) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. In some embodiments, theprotruding heights 17 of the implants 300 may be desirable for a given joint space (e.g., to couple with a secondary / supplemental joint arthroplasty device or material that may be placed on top of the protruding heights 17, such as an articular insert component, a bone cement or adhesive material, etc.). In other embodiments, the protruding heights 17 of the implants 300 may be cut down by a suitable reamer tool, cutting tool, etc., (not shown) that may be utilized to cut and / or ream the protruding heights 17 of the implants 300 until they are aligned with (or at flush heights 16 with) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 in order to match the shape and / or radius 15 of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 (e.g., similar to that shown in FIG. 36). Moreover, a special polishing tool (not shown) may also be utilized to polish the artificial articular surfaces 350 of the implants 300 after they are cut down to ensure the artificial articular surfaces 350 will be smooth enough to articulate / function properly within the repaired joint space. In this manner, each artificial articular surface 350 within the implant system may match the shape / radius of the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1.

[0513] FIG. 38 shows the joint bone 1 of FIG. 35 with an articular surface repair system 12 installed therein comprising two implants (e.g., implants similar to the implant 300 shown in FIGS. 3 A- 3C in this example) placed within the tw o perpendicular bone tunnels 3 that are formed in the joint bone 1. As can be seen in FIG. 38. the implants 300 may be placed within the bone tunnels 3 such that the two artificial articular surfaces 350 of the implants 300 may slightly underlie (or be at underlying heights 18 with respect to) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. In some embodiments, the underlying heights 18 of the implants 300 may be desirable within a given joint space (e.g., to couple with a secondary / supplemental joint arthroplasty device or material that may be placed on top of the underlying heights 18, such as an articular insert component, a bone cement or adhesive material, etc.).

[0514] FIGS. 39 and 40 show the joint bone 1 of FIG. 35 with an articular surface repair system 13 installed therein comprising two implants (e.g., implants similar to the implant 600 shown in FIGS. 6A-6C in this example) placed within the tw o perpendicular bone tunnels 3 that are formed in the joint bone 1. As can be seen in FIG. 40, the implants 600 may be placed within the bone tunnels 3 such that the tw o artificial articular surfaces 650 of the implants 300 may be slightly proud of (or at protruding heights 17 w ith respect to) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. In some embodiments, the protruding heights 17 of the implants 300 may be desirable within a given joint space (e.g., to protect the natural articular surface 2 from additional pressure / loading / wearing for a given patient’s condition, or to couple with a secondary / supplemental joint arthroplasty device or material that may be placed on top of the protruding heights 17, such as an articular insert component, a bone cement or adhesive material, etc.).

[0515] FIG. 41 shows a perspective cross-sectional side view of a joint bone 1 with a natural articular surface 2 and two bone tunnels 3 formed therein at off-axis or oblique orientations / angles with respect to the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 (e.g., any number of different oblique orientation / angle configurations may be utilized for any number of different implant repair system scenarios).

[0516] FIG. 42 shows the joint bone 1 of FIG. 41 with an articular surface repair system 14 installed therein comprising two implants (e g., implants similar to the implant 300 shown in FIGS. 3 A- 3C in this example) placed within the two oblique bone tunnels 3 that are formed in the joint bone 1. As can be seen in FIG. 42, the two implants 300 may be placed within the bone tunnels 3 such that their longitudinal axes may be oblique to the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 or a radius 15 associated with the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. FIG. 42 also shows how the implants 300 may be placed within the bone tunnels 3 such that the two artificial articular surfaces 350 of the implants 300 may be slightly proud of (or at protruding heights 17 with respect to) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. However, in other embodiments the implants 300 may be placed within the bone tunnels 3 such that the two artificial articular surfaces 350 of the implants 300 may be aligned with (or at flush heights 16 with) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1, and / or may slightly underlie (or be at underlying heights 18 with respect to) the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1. as previously described herein. The use of oblique orientations / angles for the bone tunnels 3 may enable surgical procedures that can: (1) achieve less tissue retraction stresses during the surgical procedure: (2) result in less bone removal beneath the natural articular surface 2 of the joint bone 1 (which can be very important for the small bone volume beneath a glenoid surface); and / or (3) achieve better bone purchase for the implants installed therein.

[0517] Any procedures or methods disclosed herein may comprise one or more steps or actions for performing the described method. The method steps and / or actions may be interchanged with one another. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is required for proper operation of the embodiment, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions may be modified.

[0518] Reference throughout this specification to "an embodiment" or "the embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the quoted phrases, or variations thereof, as recited throughout this specification arc not necessarily all referring to tire same embodiment.

[0519] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of embodiments, various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the present disclosure. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any embodiment requires more features than those expressly recited in that embodiment. Rather, inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment.

[0520] Recitation of the term "first" with respect to a feature or element does not necessarily imply the existence of a second or additional such feature or element. Elements recited in means-plus-function format are intended to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. §112. It will be apparent to those having skill in the art that changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles set forth herein.

[0521] The phrases "connected to", "coupled to", "engaged with", and "in communication with" may refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, fluid, and thermal interaction. Two components may be functionally coupled to each other even though they are not in direct contact with each other. The term "coupled" can include components that are coupled to each other via integral formation (e.g., integrally formed as a single piece, etc ), components that are removably and / or non-removably coupled with each other, components that are functionally coupled to each other through one or more intermediary components, etc. The term "abutting" refers to items that may be in direct physical contact with each other, although the items may not necessarily be attached together. The phrase "fluid communication" refers to two or more features that are connected such that a fluid within one feature is able to pass into another feature.

[0522] As defined herein the tenn "substantially" means within + / - 20% of a target value, measurement, or desired characteristic.

[0523] While specific embodiments and applications of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the precise configurations and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes, and variations which will be apparent to those skilled in the art may be made in the arrangement, operation, and details of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An articular surface repair system comprising: a first implant comprising: a first shaft comprising: a first proximal end; a first distal end; and a first longitudinal axis; and a first artificial articular surface coupled to the first proximal end of the first shaft; a second implant comprising: a second shaft comprising: a second proximal end; a second distal end; and a second longitudinal axis; and a second artificial articular surface coupled to the second proximal end of the second shaft; wherein: the first implant is configured to couple with a first joint bone at a first location; the second implant is configured to couple with the first joint bone at a second location, spaced apart from the first location; the first artificial articular surface is configured to replace a first portion of a first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at the first location; and the second artificial articular surface is configured to replace a second portion of the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at the second location.

2. The articular surface repair system of claim 1, wherein: at least one of the first implant and the second implant is configured to couple with the first joint bone along an orientation that is oblique to the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone.

3. The articular surface repair system of claim 1, wherein: at least one of the first implant and the second implant is configured to couple with the first joint bone along an orientation that is perpendicular to the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone.

4. The articular surface repair system of claim 1. wherein: at least one of the first artificial articular surface and the second artificial articular surface is positionable relative to the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at a height comprising at least one of:a flush height; a protruding height; and an underlying height.

5. The articular surface repair system of claim 1, further comprising: a third implant comprising a third artificial articular surface; wherein: the third implant is configured to couple with a second joint bone at a third location; and the third artificial articular surface is configured to replace a third portion of a second natural articular surface of the second joint bone to repair the second natural articular surface of the second joint bone at the third location.

6. The articular surface repair system of claim 5. wherein: at least one of the first artificial articular surface, the second artificial articular surface, and the third artificial articular surface comprises at least one of: a concave surface shape; a convex surface shape; and a flat surface shape.

7. The articular surface repair system of claim 1, wherein at least one of: the first artificial articular surface is oriented at a first oblique angle relative to the first longitudinal axis of the first implant; and the second artificial articular surface is oriented at a second oblique angle relative to the second longitudinal axis of the second implant.

8. An articular surface repair system comprising: a plurality of implants comprising: a plurality of shafts; and a plurality of artificial articular surfaces; wherein: the plurality of implants are configured to couple with a first joint bone at a plurality of different locations spaced apart from each other; and die plurality of artificial articular surfaces are configured to replace a plurality of different portions of a first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone at the plurality of different locations.

9. The articular surface repair system of claim 8. wherein: the plurality of artificial articular surfaces comprise at least one of: a plurality of concave surface shapes; a plurality of convex surface shapes; anda plurality of flat surface shapes.

10. The articular surface repair system of claim 9, wherein: each of the plurality of artificial articular surfaces are shaped and oriented to align with the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone to repair the first natural articular surface of the first joint bone.

11. The articular surface repair system of claim 8, further comprising: at least one additional implant comprising at least one additional artificial articular surface; wherein: the at least one additional implant is configured to couple with a second joint bone at a second location; and the at least one additional artificial articular surface is configured to replace a second portion of a second natural articular surface of the second joint bone to repair the second natural articular surface of the second joint bone at the second location.

12. The articular surface repair system of claim 8. wherein: at least one of the plurality of shafts comprises at least one of: a constant transverse cross-sectional area; and a variable transverse cross-sectional area.

13. The articular surface repair system of claim 8, wherein: at least one of the plurality of shafts comprises at least one of: a longitudinal passageway formed therethrough; a transverse passageway formed therethrough; a pore formed therein; and a channel formed therein.

14. The articular surface repair system of claim 8, wherein: at least one of the plurality of shafts comprises at least one of: a longitudinal rib; a transverse rib; a longitudinal compression ramp; an anti-back out feature; an interference projection; and a head portion.

15. An articular surface repair system comprising: a first glenoid implant comprising: a first shaft comprising: a first proximal end; a first distal end; and a first longitudinal axis; anda first artificial articular surface coupled to the first proximal end of the first shaft; a second glenoid implant comprising: a second shaft comprising: a second proximal end; a second distal end; and a second longitudinal axis; and a second artificial articular surface coupled to the second proximal end of the second shaft; wherein: the first glenoid implant is configured to couple with a glenoid at a first location: the second glenoid implant is configured to couple with the glenoid at a second location, spaced apart from the first location; the first artificial articular surface is configured to replace a first portion of a first natural articular surface of the glenoid to repair the first natural articular surface of the glenoid at the first location; and the second artificial articular surface is configured to replace a second portion of the first natural articular surface of the glenoid to repair the first natural articular surface of the glenoid at the second location.

16. The articular surface repair system of claim 15, wherein: at least one of the first artificial articular surface and the second artificial articular surface is shaped and oriented to match a radius of the first natural articular surface of the glenoid.

17. The articular surface repair system of claim 15, wherein: at least one of the first glenoid implant and the second glenoid implant is configured to couple with the glenoid along an orientation that is oblique to the first natural articular surface of the glenoid.

18. The articular surface repair system of claim 15, wherein: at least one of the first glenoid implant and the second glenoid implant is configured to couple with the glenoid along an orientation that is perpendicular to the first natural articular surface of the glenoid.

19. The articular surface repair system of claim 15, further comprising: a third humeral implant comprising a third artificial articular surface; wherein: the third humeral implant is configured to couple with a humeral head at a third location; and the third artificial articular surface is configured to replace a third portion of a second natural articular surface of the humeral head to repair the second natural articular surface of the humeral head at the third location.

20. The articular surface repair system of claim 19, wherein: at least one of the first artificial articular surface, the second artificial articular surface, and the third artificial articular surface comprises at least one of: a concave surface shape; a convex surface shape; and a flat surface shape.

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