Importance

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Abstract

According to the invention, there is provided a trial implant and method of using same. The implant comprises a modular bracket defining a structure having an internal surface adapted to be seated on the distal aspect of a resected femur bone and an external surface with a shape resembling the normal distal condyle of the femur. The bracket has a elongated central opening appointed to expose the resected bone of the femur, including a pair of tracks for guiding a tool along a predetermined path for controlled shaping of a patellar groove in the bone exposed through the opening. An end mill guide cooperates with the bracket to receive another tool to form a deep recess for accommodating a posterior-stabilizing housing. After the patellar track is formed, the external surface of the bracket articulates with a proximal aspect of the tibia during interoperative trial reduction of the knee joint. Removal of the bracket from the resected bone is unnecessary following the shaping steps prior to performing the trial reduction.

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First Claim