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Abstract

Methods and devices for assessing and determining proper alignment and placement of implant components during joint reconstruction surgery, particularly in the knee joint. Provisional components with force transducers 150, 240 are positioned in the joint 40 and used to determine the precise forces and decide how to balance the forces in the joint. In the knee joint, a provisional tibial component 80 and a provisional patella component 85 are used. The tibial component has a base member 84 and a pair of bearing elements 88, 90 held loosely in place by a clamping frame 86. Rocker members 130, 132 allow the bearing elements to move or rock relative to the base member. The patella component has a base plate 220 and a bearing element 222 held loosely in place by a plurality of pins 228. A rocker member 232 allows the bearing element to move or rock relative to the base plate. Force transducers or sensors 150, 240 connected to computers are positioned in the provisional components 80, 85 and provide readings of the location and magnitude of the sum of the forces generated in the joint when the joint is moved through its range of motion.

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First Claim