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Abstract

A method and apparatus for modifying the distal end of the humerus deformed by injury or disease in preparation for fixation of an elbow joint replacement. A through hole is first formed in the superior aspect of the olecranon fossa communicating with the humeral canal. A stem member which extends from the platform of a distal cut guide tool is received through the hole and extends into the humeral canal. The distal cut guide tool is held so that the platform is generally coplanar with the junction of the medial epicondyle and the trochlea with proper inclinations, both in an anterior view and in a lateral view. Thereupon, a first resected surface is formed by sawing, using as a guide, a planar guiding surface provided on the platform. With removal of the distal cut guide tool, a broach and chamfer cut guide tool having a plurality of saw guide slots is positioned on the first resected surface and additional cuts are made with the aid of the latter tool to form a wedge of bone onto which a humeral prosthesis can be impacted.

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First Claim