Importance

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Abstract

An improved orthopedic junction for releasably connecting prosthetic materials having varying characteristics comprising an apparatus of an inner component of a first material having certain characteristics including a female receptor for receiving a male end of a prosthesis of the first material. The female receptor and the male end are complementarily tapered to provide a locking taper connection therebetween when the male end is inserted into the female receptor. An outer component is incorporated which comprises a second material having different material characteristics from the first material. The outer component partially surrounds the inner component and fixedly and securely retains the inner component, preventing the first component from moving, rotating, or sliding relative to the second component. This provides a secure, but dissociable junction between the outer piece and the end of the prosthesis. The method of the invention provides attachment of an interchangeable prosthesis using dissimilar materials comprising the steps of selecting an implantable retainer for providing a contact surface which will not induce tissue growth or which has superior wear properties. The retainer includes a sleeve of a selected material. Next, a prosthesis of a selected material is selected having an end to mate and to securably engage the sleeve. The sleeve and the prosthesis are fixedly securable and are separable in the event an alternatively-sized prosthesis must be implanted. Finally, the prosthesis is implanted with the retainer in a body and mated to the end of the prosthesis with the sleeve to provide a secure engagement between the retainer and the prosthesis.

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First Claim