AU2005202099B2

AU2005202099B2 - System and method for joint resurface repair

Info

Publication number: AU2005202099B2
Application number: AU2005202099A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Steven W. Ek; Steven J. Tallarida
Original assignee: Arthrosurface Inc
Current assignee: Arthrosurface Inc
Priority date: 2000-05-01
Filing date: 2005-05-17
Publication date: 2007-06-07
Anticipated expiration: 2021-05-01
Also published as: AU2007216648B2; AU2005202099A1; AU2007216648A1

Description

0 0 1 SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR JOINT RESURFACE REPAIR 2 FIELD OF THE IVENTION 3 This invention relates to devices and methods for the repair of defects that occur 4 in articular cartilage on the surface of bones, particularly the knee.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 6 Articular cartilage, found at the ends of articulating bone in the body, is typically 7 composed of hyaline cartilage, which has many unique properties that allow it to function ,1 .8 effectively as a smooth and lubricious load-bearing surface, However, when injured, 9 hyaline cartilage cells are not typically replaced by new hyaline cartilage cells. Healing is dependent upon the occurrence of bleeding from the underlying bone and formation of 11 sear or reparative cartilage called fibrocartilage. While similar, fibrocartilage does not 12 possess the same unique aspects of native hyaline cartilage and tends to be far less 13 durable.

14 Hyaline cartilage problems, particularly in knee and hip joints, are generally caused by disease such as occurs with rheumatoid arthritis or wear and tear 16 (osteoarthritis), or secondary to an injury, either acute (sudden), or recurrent and chronic 17 (ongoing). Such cartilage disease or deterioration can compromise the articular surface 1s causing pain and further deterioration of joint function. As a result, various methods 19 have been developed to treat and repair damaged or destroyed articular cartilage.

For smaller defects, traditional options for this type of problem include non- 21 operative therapies oral medication or medication by injection ito .the joint), or 22 performing a surgical procedure called abrasion arthroplasty or-abrasion chondralplasty.

23 The principle behind this procedure is to attempt to stimulate natural healing. At the 24 defect site, the bone surface is abraded, removing approximately 1 mm. or less using a highspeed rotary burr or shaving device. This creates an exposed subehondral bone bed 26 that will bleed and will initiate a fibrocartilage healing response, Although this 27 procedure has been widely used over the past two decades and can provide-good short t 0 0 1 term results, (1-3 years), the resulting fibrocartilage surface is seldom able to support 2 long-term weight bearing, particularly in high-activity patients, and is prone to wear.

3 Another procedure, referred to as the "microfracture" technique, incorporates 4 similar concepts of creating exposed subehondral bone. During the procedure, the 0 5- cartilage layer of the chondral defect is removed. Several pathways or "microfractures" 0 6 are created to the subchondral bleeding bone bed by impacting a metal pick or surgical 7 awl at a minimum number of locations within the lesion. By establishing bleeding in the 8 lesion and by creating a pathway to the subchondral bone, a fibrocartilage healing 9 response is initiated, forming a replacement surface. Results for this technique are i0 generally similar to abrasion chondralplasty.

11 Another known option td treat damaged articular cartilage is a cartilage.transplant, 12 referred to as a Mosaieplasty or ostcoarticular transfer system (OATS) technique. This 13 involves using a series of dowel cutting instruments to harvest a plug of articular cartilage 14 and subehondral bone from a donor site, which can then be implanted into a core made into the defect site. By repeating this process, transferring a series of plugs, and by t6. placing them in close proximity to one another, in mosaic-like fashion, a new grafted 17 hyaline cartilage surface can be established. The result is a hyaline-like surface 18 interposed with a fibrocartilage healing response between each graft.

19 -/This procedure is technically difficult, as all grafts must be taken with the axis of the harvesting coring drill being kept perpendicular to the articular surface at the point of 21 harvest Also, all graft placement sites must be drilled with the axis of a similar coring 22 tool being kept perpendicular to the articular surface at the point of implantation. Further, 23 all grafts must be placed so that the articular surface portion of these cartilage and bone 24 plugs is delivered to the implantation site and seated at the same level as the surrounding articular surface. If these plugs are not properly placed in relation to the surrounding 26 articular surface, the procedure can have a very detrimental effect on the mating articular 27 surface. If the plugs are placed too far below the level of the surrounding articular 28 surface, no benefit from the procedure will be gained; Further, based on the requirement 29 of perpendicularity on all harvesting and placement sites, the procedure requires ninny I access and appr oach angles that typically require an open field surgical procedure.

2 Finally, this procedure requires a lengthy post-operative non-weight bearing course.

3 Transplantation of previously harvested hyaline cartilage cells from the same CN4 patient has been utilized in recent years.. After the cartilage is removed or harvested, it is (N 5 cultured in the lab to bbtain an increase in the number of cells. These cells are later 6 injected back into. the focal defect site and retained by sewing a patch of periosteal tissue o7 over the top of the defect to contain the cells while they heal and. mature. The 08 disadvantages of this procedure are its enormous expense, technical complexity, and the 9 need for an open knee surgery. Further, this technique is still considered somewhat experimental and long-term results are unknown. Some early studies have concluded that 11 this approach offers no significant improvement in outcomes over traditional abrasion 12 and inicrofr-acture techniques.

13 U.S. Patent No. 5,782,83 5 to Hart et disclos es an apparatus and method for 14 repair of articular cartilage including a bone plug removal tool, and a bone plug emplacement tool. The method of repairing defective articular cartilage includes the 16 steps of removing the defective cartilage and forming a hole of sufficient depth at the site.

17 A bone plug comprising intact bone and cartilage adhering thereto is removed from a 18 bone lacking defective cartilage is placed in the hole at the site of the damage.

19 us. Patent No. 5,413,608 to Keller discloses a knee joint endoprosthesis for replacing the articular surfaces of the tibia comprising a bearing part which is anchored 21 on the bone having an upper bearing surface and a rotatable plateau secured on the 22n bearing surface and forming a part of the articular surface to be replaced. A journal rises 23 from the bearing. surface and cooperates with a bore in the plateau to provide lateral 24 support U.S. Patent No. 5,632,745 to Schwartz describes a method of surgically 26 implanting into a site a bio-absorbable cartilage repair assembly. The assembly includes 27 a bio-absorbable polygonal T-shaped delivery unit having radial ribs to be mounted in the :28 removed area -and a porous bia-absorbable insert supported by and in the delivery unit.

29 The method comprises the steps of preparing the site to receive the assembly by 1 removing a portion of the damaged cartilage and preparing the site to receive the 2 assembly by drilling and countersinking the bone. The assembly is inserted and seated 3 using an inpactor in the drilled and countersunk hole in the bone until the assembly is 4 flush wit the surrounding articular surface.

U.S. Patent No. 5,683,466 to Vitale illustrates an articular joint surface o6 replacement system having two opposing components. Each component has a tapered I7 head piece for covering the end of a bone and for acting as an articular surface, an o8 integrally formed screw stem of sufficient length to extend into the bone and inwardly 9 angled bone grips on the underside of the head piece to allow fixation to the bone by 1lo compression fit. The partially spherical convex shaped exterior of the first component 11. complements the partially spherical concave shaped exterior of the second component.

12 U.S. Patent No. 5,702,401 to Shaffer discloses an intra-articular measuring device 13 including a hollow handle defining a first passageway and a hollow tube having a second 14 passageway extending from the handle, the hollow tube carrying a projection at its distal end for seating on a fixed site and a probe disposed at the distal end of the hollow tube .16 which may be directed to a second site, to enable measurement of the distance between 17 the first and second sites.

18 U.S. Patent No. 5,771,3 I0-ta Vannah describes a method of mapping the three- 19 dimensional topography of the surface of an object by generating digital data points at a plurality of sample points on said surface, each digital data point including a property 21 value and a position value corresponding to a particular point representing the properties 22 of the surface of the object A 3-D transducer probe a digitizer) is moved on or 23 over the surface along a random path, and the sample po ints are digitized to generate a 24 real-time topography or map on a computer screen of selected properties of the object, including without limitation, surface elevation, indentation stiffliess, elevation of sub- 26 surface layers and temperature.

27 Prosthetics for total knee replacement (TKR), whereby the entire knee joint or a 28 single compartment of the knee joit is replaced can be a. common eventuality for the 29. patient with a large focal defect. Although these patients are also managed with anti- O inflammatory medications, eventual erosion of the remaining articular cartilage results in effusion, pain, and loss of mobility and/or activity for the patient. Problems encountered after implanting such prostheses are usually caused by the eventual loosening of the prosthetic due to osteolysis, wear, or deterioration of the cements used to attach the device to the host bones.

Further, some prostheses used are actually much larger than the degenerated tissue that needs to be replaced, so that extensive portions of healthy bone are typically removed to accommodate the prostheses. Patients who undergo TKR often face a long and difficult 0 c rehabilitation period, and the life span of the TKR is accepted to be approximately 20 years.

0 Accordingly, efforts are made to forgo the TKR procedure for as long as possible.

S 10 Accordingly, there is a need for an improved joint surface replacement system that 0 ci would be effective in restoring a smooth and continuous articulating surface and that would also be as durable as the former hyaline cartilage surface, within the context of a minimally invasive procedure that allows for a nearly immediate return to activity, restoration of lifestyle, and pain relief.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides tools and methods for mapping and measuring the articular surface of a joint (or of any bony surface) and for fabricating a prosthetic device based on this recorded data.

In one method consistent with the invention, once the defect of the chondral surface has been identified, a guide pin is inserted arthroscopically. A fixation screw having a tapered distal tip and an aggressive distal end thread form is then driven into the subchondral bone in relation to a reference axis that is approximately central to the defect. The fixation device also serves to define a tangent point to the surrounding articular surface. The screw is driven by a socket type driver that engages a hex-shaped proximal extension. A further cylindrical proximal extension of the screw (or other mating feature, a recess in the screw) that eventually serves as a fixation element for the surface prosthetic is at this time concealed with a cover (or other mating feature corresponding to the mating feature of the screw, a plug for mating with a screw 1 having a recess as its mating feature) having a radiused proximal end. One or more 2 milled slots run the length of the uniform diameter portion of the screw.

3 Under artbroscopic view, the screw depth is adjusted so that the radiused cover 4' surface is positioned tangent to the radius that defines the existing articular surface. At this time, the guide pin is removed, and the knee is articulated. The depth positioning of o6 the radiused cover establishes an origin or reference point for all future measuring, 7 cutting, and prosthetic machining operations. Artbroscopic examination is carried out to o8- confinn positioning.

9 A measuring tool is inserted an the reference axis. A central element of the measuring tool is a static post that establishes the axial location of origin- By rotating I1I the outer arm or outrigger of the measuring tool relative tio the static post while also 12 maintaining contact with the articular surface, an axial displacement or Z dimension can 13 be establisbed relative to the origin for any point along the known radial sweep of the 14 outrig ger to determine the final geometry of the prosthetic surface which fits within the defecL These Z dimensions can be recorded in real time with conventional dial gauge 16 indicators, or with digital recording devices, or by using marking techniques. Although 17 numerous points may be taken, ideally a minimum number of points are taken to is- accurately define the target articular surface.

19 Locating suraces or features created on the screw, (or alternatively, on the radius cover, as described in altetnative embodiments herein), correlate to some surface or 21 feature on the mea'suing tool and allow the measurement of the rotational position of the 22 points about the axis with respect to the locating surfaces- Data recorded during the 23 mapping procedure can then be entered into parametric engineering design software or 24 similar algorithm to define- a three dimensional surface matched to the bearing surface geometry to be implanted and reproduce the anatomic contours rnapjied.

26 An alternative measuring device for obtaining the articular surface dimension 27 includes an outer maffing element and an inner recotding clement. The marking element 28. includes a sharp indenting mechanism which when pressed by the surgeon creates a.

29 depression or mark in the relatively soft surface of the recording element, which deforms I at these marked points so that they c an be utilized as patient data. The recording, -2 element also includes a surface that corresponds to the surface of the proximal extension 3' of the fixation screw. During the mapping procedure, data paints are established of the C*N4. rotational position of the mapped articular surface relative to the screw. These data points are translated to-the implant geometry so that the accurate rotational location of the o6 implant relative to the scrdv is maintained.

o7 In order to secure the implant to the fixation screw, a precision taper (or other o8. component of a mating feature) is machined into a protrusion (or other component of a 9 mating feature) on the back of the device. The implant may be constructed of cobalt chromniumn, or other materials. The implant may also include a alight -outward taper or 11 protrusion along the diametrical surface to enhance l oad bearing or load transfer 12 properties of the implant to surrounding bone. Additionally, a series of radial cuts may 13 create surfaces that increase resistance of the implant to rotational forces. These features 14 may be located around the outer diameter of the implant.

In another aspect, the invention includes a compass instrument for measurement 16 and surface preparation of the implant target site subsequent sizing of the implant. This 17 compass instrument is configured so that it can be delivered to the site arthroscopically, is and when coupled to the axis defined by the guide pin it can be used for measuring and 19 cutting operations.

M4 In another embodiment, the compass instrument consists of a handle, a cannulated 21 shaft that extends through the handle, and a cannalated distal offset arm configured to 22 serve as a linearly adjustable mounting tool for a series of cuffing blades, boring blades, 23 or measuring probes.

24 With the guide pin advanced through the instrunent shaft, -when fitted with a blade, a fixed length from the rotational or reference axis to the cutting blade's cutting 26 surface is established. This defines the radius that is effected as the instrument is rotated 27 around the guide pin, and corresponds to the overall diameter of the implant. This sharp 28 cutting blade is used to circumscribe and cleanly cut the surrounding articular cartilage.

I ~In another aspect, the invention features a bone cuttingor scoring instrument 2 whereby the bone-cutting instrument is positioned on the guide pin reference axis and is 3 used to prepare the target site to match in configuration and dimension tbe contacting 4 surface of the implant. The matching fit between the bone surfaces of the prepared target site and the bone contacting surfaces of the implant can advantageously ensure o6 long term clinical results with the implant, as poor quality, of fit between bone surfaces tfl7 and bone contacting surfaces of traditional orthopedic prosthetic devices has been noted o8 to contribute to early clinical failures.

9 Following fabrication of the implant, a second surgical procedure is performed.

The radiused cover is removed exposing a precision taper (or, alternatively, the cover 11i may be removed during the first procedure). A pin with a distally mounted element is 12 placed trough the central lumen of the fixation screw so that the distally mounted 13 element is secured into the screw. This element carries one or more suture strands that 14 now trail from the fixatikrn screw. The sutures are then treaded through the implant and .Is a knot or bead may be created proximal to the implant. By continuing to-manipulate and 16 tension the suture strands, the implant can be brought coaxial to the fixation screw. Once 17 coaxial, the implant is aligned via engagement of the keyed elements and driven into 18 place with a plastic driving rod and mallet Finally, through the guide aperture on the 19 surface of the implant, bone cement may be injected to enhance the contact surface between the implant and the subehondral bone.

21 I another aspect, the invention further features a driver whereby the implant is'- 22 connected to the driver via a holder, and a tether element, such as a suture or wire. The 23 implant and the driver are then inserted arthroscopieally. Tension is then applied to the 24 tether element so that the implant is drawn back and seated on the. driver. The implant can then be controllably delivered to the prepared target site. The seat portion of the 26 driver may comprise a material that may be impacted to seat the implant without- 27 damaging the implant surface.

I DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 2 FIG. I is a fragmentary side view of a knee having therein an exemplary 3 assembled fixation device and implant of the joint surface repair system surgically 4 implanted by the method in one embodiment of' the present invention; FIG. 2a is an exploded side view of an exemplary fixation screw and hex-shaped 6 proximal extension in one embodiment of the present invention; o7 FIG. 2b is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary fixation screw and hex- 8 shaped proximal extension in one embodiment of the present invention; 9 FIG. 3a is a side view of an exemplary assembled fixation screw and hex shaped extension. in one embodiment of the present invention; ii FIG. 3b is'an exploded perspective view of another exemplary fixation screw and 12 implant in one embodiment of the present invention; 13 FIG. 4a is a perspective view of the upper surfac e of an exemplary implant in one 14 embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4b is a side view of an exemplary implant in one embodiment of the present 16 invention; 17, FIG. 4c is a perspective view of the lower surface of an exemplary implant in one 18 embodiment of the present invention; 19 FIG. 5a is a side view of an exemplary assembled fixation device and implant in one embodiment of the present invention; 21 FIG. 5b is a perspective view of an assembled fixation device and implant in one 22 embodiment of the present invention; 23 [FIG. 5c is a perspective view of the upper surface of an exemplary implant, in one 24 embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 5d is a perspective view of the lower surface of an exemplary implant, in one 26 embodiment of the present invention; I FIG. 6a is a sectional view of a knee having damaged articular cartilage, showing 2 an exemplary guide pin drilled into the central portion of the defect and an arthroscope 3 being disposed adjacent thereto, in a surgical procedure consistent with one embodiment 4 of the present invention; s FIG. 6b is a side view of the distal tip of an exemplary drill device for boring a Cl6 pilot hole to receive an exemplary fixation screw, in one embodirnent-'of the present o7 invention; Cl FIG. 7a is a sectional view of a knee having damaged articular cartilage, showing 9. an exemplary fixation screw being driven into the defect by an exemplary socket type driver arranged anthe guide pin, in a surgical procedure consistent with one embodiment i i of the present invention; 12 FIG. 7b is a side view of the exemplary fixation screw, socket type driver and 13 guide pin of HIG. 7a, illustrating the hex shaped proximal extension in a cros 's-sectional 14 view, in a surgical procedure consistent wit one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 8a is a perspective view of a&knee having damaged articular cartilage, 16 showing an exemplary fixation screw and hex-shaped proximal extension implanted in 17 the defect after removal of an exemplary socket type driver and guide pin, in a surgical .1s procedure consistent with one embodiment of the present invention; 19. FHG. 8b is a sagital view of the exemplary fixation screw and hex-shaped proximal extension of FIG. 8a implanted in the defect after removal of an exemplary 21 socket type driver and guide pin, in a surgical procedure consistent with one embodiment 22 ,of the present invention; 23 FIG. 8c is a perspective view of an exemplary fixation screw, proximal extension, 24 and cover, in one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 9a is a sectional view of an exemplary fixation screw and hex-shaped 26 proximal extension implanted in the defect with the exemplary guide pin replaced and an I exemplary measuring tool arranged thereon, in a surgical procedure consistent with one 2 embodiment of the present invention; 3 FIG. 9b is a side partial cr oss-sectional view of the exemplary fixation screw and ON4 hex-shaped proximal extension of FIG. Pa implanted in the defect with the exemplary guide pin replaced and an exemplary measuring tool arranged thereon, in a surgical Cl6 procedure consistent with one embodiment of the present invention; *7 FIG. 9c. is a perspective view of an exemplary fixation screw and proximal 8l extension, with the cover removed, inone embodiment of the present invention; 9 FIG. I Oa. is a sectional view of an exemplary fixation screw and ha-shaped proximal extension implanted in the defect, after remnoval of the hex-shaped proximal 11i extension, with an exemplary pin and suture strands placed therethrough, in a surgical 12 procedure consistent with one embodiment of the present invention; 13 FIG. l0b is a side partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary fixation screw and 14 hex-shaped proximal extension of FIG. 1 Oa, implanted in the defect, wit an exemplary pin and suture strands placed theretbrough, in a surgical procedure consistent with one 16 embodiment of the present invention; 17 FIG. 11 ia is a sectional view of an exemplary fixation screw implanted in the -18 defect wit an exemplary pin and suture strands placed theretbrough, showing the t9 implanted fixation screw with the implant being tensioned on the suture strands, in a 2o surgical procedure consistent with one embodiment of the present invention; 21 FIG. 1 lb is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary fixation screw of FIG.

22 9a implanted in the defect, showing the implant positioned in the interchondular notch, in 23 a surgical procedure consistent with one embodiment of the present invention; 24 FIG. 12 is a sectional view of an exemplary fixation screw implanted in the defect, wherein, after placement of the implant and removal of the suture strands, the 26 implant is driven into place with an inmpactor and hammer, in a surgical procedure 27~ consistent with one erhbodiment of the present inventionz I FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary fixation screw implanted in 2. the defect, alter placement of thle implant wherein, after removal of the impactor and 3 hamnmer, cement is injected between the implant and the bone, in a surgical procedure 4 consistent with one embodiment of the present invention; Cl FIG. 14a is a schematic representation of the two'datumn curves used to define a 6 patient-specific three-dimensional surface far construction of the articular or lower 7 surface of an implant in one embodiment of the present invention;, c-I8 FIG. 14b is a top view of an exemrplary hex-shaped proximal extension in one 9. embodiment of the present invention; FIG. l14c is a perspective view of the bone-contacting or upper surface of an ni. exemplary implant, in one embodiment of the present invention;, 12 FIG. 1 5a is a perspective view of an exemplary compass instrument, in one 13 embodiment of the present invention; 14 FIG. 15Sb is a perspective view of the distal offset ann of an exemplary compass instrument and cutting blade to be mounted thereon, in one embodiment of the present 16 mnvention; 17 FIG. 15c is a perspective view of an exemplary driver, showing an exemplary 18 implant on an exemplary tether element, in one embodiment of the present invention; 19 FIG. lid is a perspective view of an exemplary driver, showing an exemplary implant tensioned on an exemplary tether element in one embodiment of the present 21 invention; 22 FIG. 161is a perspective view of an exemplary compass instrument and cutting 23 blade mounted on an exemplry guide pin, in one embodiment of the present invention; 24. HIG. 1 7a is a perspective view of another exemplary cutting blade, in one embodiment of the present invention; 26 FIG..- 17b is a perspective view of an exemplary measuring probe, in one 27 embodiment of the present invention; I FIG. 17c is a perspective vie w of an exemplary multi-faced blade mounted in the 2 distal. offset arm of an exemplary compass instrument in one embodiment of the present 3 invention; N4' FIG. 18a is a perspective view of an exemplary site preparation and culling device, in one embodiment of the. present invention; 6 FIG. i~h is a cross sectional view of the exemplary site preparation and cutting o7 device of FIG. 18;, in one embodiment of the present invention; Cl 8. FIG. 18Sc is a perspective view of another exemplary site preparation and cutting 9 device, in one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 18Sd is a side view of another exemplary site preparation and cutting device, 11 in one embodiment of the present invention; 12. FIG. 18Be is a perspective view of another exemplary site preparation and cuffing 1.3 device, in one embodiment of the present invention; 14 FIG. 19a is a sectional view of the upper surface of an exemplary implant, in one embodiment of the present invention; 16 FIG. 19b is a side view of a portion of the exemplary-imuplant of MOG. 19a, in one 17 embodiment of the present invention; 1.8 FIG. 19c is a perspective view of the upper surface of the exemplary implant of 19 FIG. 19A, in one embodiiment of the present invention; FIG. 19d is an exploded'-perspective view of another exemplary implant with 21 taper lock ring, washer and suture, in one embodiment of the present invention; 22 FIG. 19c is a top perspective view of the exemplary implant of FIG. 19d seated in 23 the taper lock ring, in one embodiment of the present invention; 24 FIG. 19f is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary implant of FIG. 194 seated in the taper lock ring, with washer and suture, disposed within an incision near the.

26 defect site, in one embodiment of the present invention; I FIG. 19g is a perspective view of the exemplary implant of FIG. 19d seated in the 2 taper lock ring, with washer and suture, wherein the suture is threaded through an 3 aperture at the distal end of a seating tool, at a first point in time during the process of 4 Seating the implant into the defect site, in one embodimen t of the -present invention; FIG. 19h is andther perspective view of the exemplary implant of FIG. 19d seated ci6 in the taper lock ring, with washer and suture, wherein the suture is treaded through an o 7 aperture at the dihtal end of a seating tool, at a second point in time during the process of 0 8 ~seating the implant into, the defect site, in one embodiment of the present ivnin 9 FIG. 19i is another perspective view of the exemnplary implant of FlGa 19d seated in. the taper lock ring, wherein the distal end of a sealing tool is disposed onto the H1 implant, at a third point in time during the process of seating the implant into the defect 12 site, in one embodiment of the present invention; 13 FIG. 20a is a perspective view of an exemplary inner recording element of an 14 exemplary measuring device, in one embodiment of the present invention; is FIG. 20b is a perspective view of an exemplary outer marking element of an 16 exemplary measuring device, in one embodiment of the present invention; 17. FIG. 20c is a cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary measuring device 18S showing an exemplary inner recording element and an exemplary outer marking element, 19 in one embodiment of thic present invention; FIG. 20d is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary measuring device, 21 in one embodiment of the present invention; 22 FIG. 20Oe is a perspective view of the exemplary measuring. device of FIG. 23 illustrating an exemplary scroll alignment feature, in one embodiment of the present 24 invention; FIGS. 20f and 20g are side views of the exemplary measuring device of FIG. 26 illustrating the translational motion of the handle with respect to the tip of the device, in 27 one embodiment of the present invention; I FIG. 20h is a perspective view of the distal end of the exemplary measuring 2 device of FIG. 204, in one embodiment of the present invention; 3 FIG. 20i is a perspective view of the distal end of the exemplary measuring device ON4 of FIG. 20d with outer element, disposed upon the inner element engaging a mnating -feature of the screw, iii one embodiment of the present invention; 61 FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary unitary implant, in one.

o7 embodiment of the present invention; s FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a defect site with a keyed aperture for receiving 9O the exemplary unitary implattof FIG. 21, in one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an exemplary composite implant, in one 11 embodiment of the present invention: 12 FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another exemplary composite implant, in one 13 embodiment of the present invention;, 14 FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an exemplary implant illustrating the geometry of said implant for use in an algorithm for establishing minimum implant thickness, in one 16 embodiment of the invention; and 17 FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an exemplary implant illustrating the geometry of 18 said implant for use in a algorithm for establishing minimum implant thickness, in one 19 embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 21 Msan overview, FIG. I shows a surgically implanted articular joint surface repair 22 system consistent with the present invention., As shown, the assembled fixation device 2 3 includes fixation screw 1O, implant 40, and anchoring pin 5, irnplartted in the defect in the 24 medial femoral chondtral surface 55 of knee 50. Imnplant 4O is configured so that bearing or bottom surface 41 of the implant reproduces the anatomic contours of the surrounding 26 articular surface of the knee 1 ~As illustrated in FIGS. 2a, 2b and 3a, fixation screw 10 comprises tfreads 12 2 running the length of the screw from tapered distal tip I I to hex-shaped drive 15. In the 3 embodiment shown, the screw includes a tapered distal end 11, and aggressive distal C*N4 threads 12, so that, as screw 10 is driven into the subehondral bone 100 (as shown in FIG.

7a) the screw dilates open and radially compress the subehondral bone, increasing its o6 local density and thereby increasing the fixation strength of the screw. The screw 10 may In7 taper down to the distal end 11, and the diameter of the screw may become greater and o 8 inure uniform at the center thereof, so that adjustment of the depth of the screw 10 with 9 respect to the subchondral bone 100 does not significantly further increase or decrease the compression of the suhchondral bone.

11 One or more milled slots 13 ran the length of the uniform diameter portion of the 12 screw 10. Slots 13 ensure that as healing or tissue in-growth begins, migrational or 13 rotational movement of the screw is inhibited. The screw 10 is configured to be drivenc 14 by a female or socket type driver 2 as shown in Fig. 7b, which engages a hex-shaped drive 15 located toward the proximal end 17 of the screw. A cylindrical proximal 16 .extension 14 (which nay, alternatively, be a recess 303 which mates with a plug or other 17 protrusion on the implant surface, as shown in FIG. c) extends from hex-shaped drive is 15, which eventually serves as a fixation element for surface prosthetic implant 19 Through hole 16 runs through the central axis of the screw. Hex-shaped cover 30 (which may, alternatively, be a plug 301, for mating with a fixation element 302 having a recess, 21 as shown, in FIGS. 3b, 8c, and 9c, and described in the following paragraph) is 22 configured to engage the cylindrical proximal extension 14 of the screw 10 to Prevent 23 exposure of the cylindrical extension from inadvertent contact or damage. The hex- 24 shaped cover 30 is finished with a radiused proximal end 31 that assists in the visual determination ofithe-correct depth setting of the screw. Through hole 32 in the hex- 26 shaped cover 30 corresponds with through hole 16 in the fixation screw 27 Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 3b, 8c, and 9c, the female-shaped cover may 28 instead be a plug 301 having a male-shaped mating component 305, for mating with a 29 fixation element 302 of a screw 10' having a recess 303. Additionally, the shape of the I cover and plug, or other recessed, protruding, or mating components may. be other than 2- hexagonal, and those in the art will recognize that one of any number of shapes or 3 configurations for such components may be employed in a device or method consistent 4 wit the invention.

Also, while many of the components described herein are canriulated, having 6, guide apertures, through holes, and/or central lumina along their length, for disposing o7 such components about a guide rod for proper location of the components wit respect to 08 the articular surface, it should be recognized that a suture 313 or other flexible element, 9 or other guide feature may be used in place of a guide rod, or a guide rod or wire may be eliminated altogether from one or more steps consistent with the invention described i i herein. As shown in FIG. 8c, toe suture 313 may be fixedly or removably attached to the 12 plug 301.

13 As shown in FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c, implant 40 comprises lower bearing surface 4 1, 14 top surface 42 and protrusion 45 located centrally on the bottom surface. As the top surface 42 of the implant 40 is not a bearing surface, and instead is fixed into subohondral 16 bone 100, a series of stepped machine cuts 43 following the contours.. of the defect are 17 created. By creating stepped machine cuts 43 a contoured contact surface matching the is defect in the subchondral bone .1 00 is created. This contact surface results in an increased 19 surface area that should enhance resistance to -loosening of the implant 40 v'ia rotational or translational loading. In the illustrated embodiment, the stepped cuts are shown as 21. square cross-section cuts, but the cuts may be circular, triangular, or another 22' configuration.

23 In order to secure the implant 40 to the fixation screw 10, precision taper 4 is 24 machined into or onto a protrusion 45 on the top surface 42 of the implant. The precision taperM4 is configured to~engage toe cylindrical proximal extension 14 of the 26 screw 10, once the hex-shaped cover 30 has been removed therefrom. Taper 44 may be 27 mated wit extension l4 so that a friction fit is provided between these surfaces. The 28 assembled fixation device is shown in FIGS. Sa and 5b. Alternatively, other engagement 29 mechanisms such as snap-fits, pre'ss-futs, threads, or coupling elements, for example, may 1 also be used. In one embodiment, leading pin 47 arranged on the protrusion 45 assists 2 penetration into subchondral bone. Also, in one embodiment, guide aperture 46 passes 3 through the top 42 and bottom 41 surfaces of the implant 40, just slightly off center of the 4 reference axis 20A. Alternatively, guide aperture 46 may be located in the center of the o 5 implant 40 and Corresponds to through hole 16 running through the central lumen in the 6 fixation screw 10. Bone cement may be injected through guide aperture 46 on the 7 surface of the implant 40 and through hole 16 in the fixation screw 10, to enhance the 0 8 contact surface between the device and the subchondral bone. In one embodiment, the 9 implant is constructed of cobalt chromium, although other materials may be used, including implantable plastics. Additionally, biologically active coatings or surface 11 treatments to enhance bone ingrowth or improve wear properties) may be utilized or 12 combined as laminates, particularly with respect to the bearing surfaces and bone 13 contacting surfaces. Further exemplary materials that may be used in fabricating an 14 implant consistent with the invention are described hereinbelow.

As shown in FIG. 3b, it is noted that precision taper 44 may be a male-shaped 16 component 304 instead of the above-described female component 44. In this 17 configuration, the male-shaped component 304 of the implant 40' is configured for 18 mating with a fixation elk'ent 302 of the screw 10' having a recess 303 adapted to 19 receive the male-shaped component 304.

Byway of example, FIGS. 6a-13 depict one exemplary joint surface methodology 21 of the present invention. FIG. 6a shows a focal defect 1 of the articular surface 55 of the 22 femoral chondyle bone of the knee 50. This defect is identified by arthroscope 23 inserted in the area of the defect 1 during a diaghostic arthroscopy or surgical 24 arthroscopy. The disclosed surgical intervention begins by drilling a guide pin defining reference axis 20A into the central portion of the defect 1. via an incision 200 26 typical of arthroscopic procedures. Placement of this pin may be done using visual, 27 freehand techniques, or may be located centrally by using outer element 71 of a 28 measuring tool 70 (as shown in FIGS. 9a and 9b), or-other aiming device or technique, to 29 define a center. This reference axis 20A serves to establish a working axis located central It 0 0 .1 to the defect 1 for the' procedures that follow, and arthroscope 25 may be used to view the 2 joint for purposes of establishing a reference axis 20A generally perpendicular to and 3 bisecting the existing articular surface 55 defined by radii 60 and 61, as shown in FIG.

4 8b. Referring to FIG. 7a, 7b, 8a and 8b, fixation screw 10 and hex-shaped cover 30 are 0 5 driven into the defect 1 in the subchondral bone 100 by socket-type driver 2 mounted o6 over about) guide pin 20 located on referenceaxis 20A. Under arthroscopic view, lfl 7 the depth of fixation screw 10 may be adjusted by driver.2 so that the bottom of the a radiused surface 31 of the hex-shaped cover 30 is positioned tangent to the radii 60 and 9 61 that defie the existing articular surface 55. The guide pin 20 is removed and the knee 50 is articulated through its range of motion to ensure that the height of the radiused 11 surface 31 of the hex-shaped cover 30 is proper, since the prosthetic surface 41 of the 12 implant 40 is created also to be tangent to this radiused sirface 3 1. The depth positioning 13 of the radiused surface 31 of the hex-shaped cover 30 establishes a point of origin or a 14 reference point for all future measuring and machining operations. Arthroscopic examination may be carried out from multiple arthroscopic views to confirm positioning.

16 A drill mechanism 306, as illustrated in FIG. 6b, may be used to bore a pilot hole 17 for receiving a fixation screw 10 (as shown, in FIGS. 2a, 2b and 3a). As shown, the 18 drill may have a shank portion 307 and a bit portion 308. The bit portion 308 may 19 include a spiral or parabolic fluted tip 309 having proximal 310, medial 311, and distal 312 portions. The root diameter at the medial portion 311 is substantially equal to the 21 diameter of the fixation screw 10, and the diameter decreases as the distal portion 312 22 tapers away from the shank 307. The proximal portion 310 of the bit 308 may be used as 2i a visual indicator during drilling, to determine the point at which the proper bore depth 24 has been attained. The drill mechanism may have a central lumen (not shown) having a diameter slightly greater than the diameter of the guide pin 20 (as illustrated in FIG. 6a) 26 nnning along its length, so that, with the guide pin 20 in place, the drill 306 may be 27 disposed about the guide pin 20 during drilling to ensure proper location of the pilot hole 28 with respect to the articular surface 55. Alternatively, a self-drilling or self-tapping 29 screw, may be used, as those skilled in the art will recognize.

1 For surface preparation aid aeburate measurement of the implant site and the 2 subsequent sizing of the implant instrument 120 is provided. The compass instrument 3 120 may be configured 'to serve as a mounting tool for a number of functional blades or 4 tips and when located about the axis 20A, via guide rod 20, may be used for measuring and cuffing operations. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15a, compass instrument 120 O6 includes handle 110;, a cannulated shaft 111 that extends-tbrough the handle, and a 7 cannulated distal offset arm 112. The instrument may be rigid in construction and may be a durable reusable and resterilizable instrument. The distal offset arm 112 is 9 configured so that it can be introduced into a site through an incision 200 typical of an arthroscopic procedure.. Once the distal offset ann 112 has fulfly penetrated the incision i I and enters the site, shaft 111 can be angularly repositioned so that it becomes mare 12 coaxial to the reference axis 20A and advanced in-lie with the reference axis 13 towards the implant target site. While performing this maneuver to position the 14 compass instrument 120, the guide pin 20 should be removed from its position in the defect L 'When compass 120 is in its proper position at or near the implant target site, the 16' guide pin 20 is delivered through the instrument canriulazion 113, re-establishing -the 17 working (reference) axis 20A used to define die implant geometry.

is Referring to FIG. 15b, within offset arm 112 is a slotted surface 114 for engaging 19 a series of cutting blades 121, boring blades 124, or measuring probes 122. The. slots 115 are configured so that said series of cutting blades 121, boring blades 124 (FIG. 17c), 21 measurin probes 122,123 (FIGS. 17a, 17b), or like elements may be partially 22 constrained or fixed in position such that they may be adjusted linearly along the length 23 of the slotted surface 114 over a defined distance of travel. Intersecting the plane of 24 travel defined by slotted surface 114 and slots 115, is the cannulation 11.3.

-As illustrated in FIG. 16, when fitted with a cutting blade1]2 1, and with the guide 26 pin 20 advanced through the shaft 113 of instrument 120, so that die guide pin passe-s 27 through a closely sized hole 116 in the cutting blade, the blade's position becomes fully 28 constrained. When constrained in this fashion, a fixed length from the rotational or 29 reference axis 20A to the cutting surface 117 of cutting blade 121 is established. This I defines the radius that is effected as the instrument 120 is rotated around the guide pin 2 and corresponds to the overall diameter of the implant 40 that is delivered to the fully 3 prepared site. The cutting blade 121 is used to circumscribe and cleanly cut the 4 surrounding articular cartilage.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS, 17a and 1%b, blade 123 and ci6 measuring probe 122, respectively, may have multiple holes 118 that defines that o7 probe/blade's functional diameter. In addition, the blades may be specifically configured o so that staged or'sequential cuts of varying depths and diameters can be performed within 9- the procedure, Also, such a blade can be configured by providing a readable scale 119 corresponding to the hole 118 pattern, so that the surg eon may determine and set the 1i t appropriate diameter as needed by positioning the guide pin 20 in the corresponding hole.

12 As the readable scale 119 may be located on the blade 123 with respect to the blade's 13 cuting surface 117, a high degree of positional accuracy may be achieved as the scale 14. may be defined specifically for each type of blade. This approach creates an inexpensive means of providing sharp blades of varying diameters and varying blade types without a 16 large inventory of size- and type-specific blades. Referring to FIG. I 71, rounded tip 109 17 of measuring probe 122 can be used to determine the appropriate diameter and can be 18s similarly sized and secured in the compass instrument 120. The tip 109 may be rounded 19 to prevent marring of the articular surface. FIG. 17oc shows a-boring bit or bone cutting blade 124 with multiple cutting surfaces 107 and 10 8 configured in this fashion.

21" Turning now to FIGS. 9a and 9b, with the guide pin 20 replaced, a measuring tool 22 70 is inserted so that the reference axis 20A is utilized. A central element of the 23 measuring tool 70 is a post 75 that is static, establishes the axial location of the paint of 24 origin 80, and mates with a rotational location feature withn the s6rew 14. By rotating the outer arm or outrigger 71 of the measuring tool 70 relative to the static post 75 while 26' also maintaining contact with the articular surface 55, an axial displacement or Z 27 dimension, can be established relative to the point of origin 80.for any point along the 28 sweep of the outrigger. Bach such Z dimension may be recorded in real tim~e with 29 conventional dial gauge indicators 72 or with a digital recording device, such as disclosed I in US Patent No. 5,771,3 10 to Vannab, or by using other known marking techniques.

2 Although numerous points may be taken, ideally a minimum number of points are taken.

3 to define accurately the target articular surface. In other embodiments, multiple 4. outriggers that embody different di ameters or an adjustable outrigger may be used to map larger defects, and also to determine the final diameter of the prosthetic surface that fits o6 within the defect. It is noted that the measuring tool may comprise a spring or other 7 tensioning deie(o hewn), for urging the outrigger distally with respect to the handle o8 of the tool. In this aspect, the outrigger-is manually press ed against the articular cartilage, 9 so as to maximally compress the articular cartilage upon recording data points, so that the data points taken are of a maximally "loaded" or "compressed dimension.

11 FIGS. 20a, 20b and 20c show an alternative measuring and mapping device 210 12 for obtaining the articular surface dimension, comprising housing 217'and a recording 13 element 218. As shown in FIG. 20a, recording element 218 includes upper portion 219, 14 flange 222 and calibrated lower portion 220. Key-shaped surface 221 located at distal i s end 225 of recording element 218 is configured to engage a reciprocal key-shaped 16, surface in the proximal extension 14 of fixation screw 10, or, for example, a key shaped 17 cover arranged on the proximal end of the screw (not shown). The upper portion 219 of 18 recording element 218 may be constructed of a relatively soft or other deforruable 19 material that can be marked with patient data. Canmulated shaft 223 rnms through the central lumen of the recording element 218. As shown in FIG, 20b, housing 217 21 includes a marking mechanism 224 located on the upper portion 226 of the housing, at or 22 within window or aperture 230. An indexing indicator 228 is located on the lower n3 portion 227 of the housing 217, at window or opening 229.

24 Turning to FIG. 20c, recording element 218 is inserted in bousing2l7 of measuring and mapping device 210, so that the distal end 225 of recording element 218 26 appears through opening 232. Tensioning means (not shown) in the device 210, enables 27 recording element 218 to move longitudinally within housing 218. With the guide pin 28 replaced, the measuring device 210 is inserted on the guide pin on reference axis 20A so 29 that key-shaped surface 221 engages the corresponding keyed surface of the screw and is I maintained in static position thereby. These key-shaped-surfaices establish the rotational 2 position of the articular surface points to be mapped relative to the screw. During the 3 measuring and mapping procedure, the surgeon rotates housing 217 and cuter arm or 4 outrigger 231 located at the distal. end 235 of housing. By depressing marking 0 5 mechanism 224, a series of depressions or marked points 240 is established in the o6 relatively'soft surface of the upper portion 219 of the recording element 21 8, which 7 deforms at these marked points so that they can be utilized as patient data, Indexing o8 indicator 228 and calibrated lower portion 220 of recording element 217 allow for 9 controlled rotational movement between housing 217 and recording eliment 218. In this way, the rotational position of the mapped articular surface points 235 relative to the 11screw 10 as appreciated by outer arm of outrigger 23 1, is translated to the implant 12 geometry as a feature so that the accurate rotational location of the implant 40 relative to 13 the screw 10 is maintained.

14 For example, as shown in FIGS. 8b and 9b, to accurately reproduce the two radii 60 and 61 that locally define the articular surface 55, four points, Sin and Si1b, and 82a 16 and 82b, and the point of origin 80 are recorded. As any three points in a single plane 17 define a curve, by recording points Sin and Si b and the point of origin SO, radius is defining the medial-lateral aspect 68 of the chondyle can be determined. By recording 19 points 82a and 82b and the point of origin 80, the radius 61 defining the anterior-posterior aspect 69 of the chondyle can be deterined. In the example provided, in order to 21 maintain the relationship between these two defined radii, 60 and 61, the measuring tool 22 70 is constructed so that it can be accurately indexed from a fixed starting point along 23 degree intervals to capture or map said four points 8Tla, Si1b, 82a and 82b, over the course 24 of its revolution.

Locating surfaces or features created on the madius cover 30, or along some length 26 of the fixation screw 10, hex-shaped drive surface of the screw 14 cor on the cylindrical 27 proximal extension (or recess) of the screw 14, correlate to some surface or feature on the 28 measuring tool 70 and allow the measurement of the rotational position of the four 29 measured points 81a, 81b,, 82 and 82b, about the reference axis 20A with respect to said 23 i locating surfaces. This data-becomes important in configuring the implant 40 with respect 2 to the fixation screw 10 so that the proper orientation of said measured points to 3 fabricated geometr y is maintained, Of course, such measuring tool can be configured to 4 measure any number of points at any interval desired.

While the measurements are illustrated in FIGS. 9a and 9b as being taken from c-I6 the bottom of the radiused surface 31 of the hex-shaped cover 30 of the screw, the o7 measurements may alternativ ely be taken from the top of the screw 10' itself, as shown in 08 FIG. 9c. As shown, in this embodiment, a key 3 15 or other alignment feature may be 9 provided, to indicate the starting point for takdng measurements. In this configuration, to the measuring tool used, as well as the implant inanufacttired both have a mating feature 11i matching the key 315, for properly locating the starting point of the measurements taken 12 and thereby subsequently property aligning the implant with respect to the defect.

13- Other embodiments of measuring and recording tools are possible. One such 14 embodiment of a measuring and recording tool 210' is shown in FIGS. 20d 20i. As shown, measuring tool 210' comprises a handle 3f6, outer shaft 333, inner shaft 330, 16 scroll 3 1it, a tactile feedback portion 3 18, ring 320 having a button 321 in communication 17 with a sharp marking point 326 thereunder, a rotating portion 322 having a rotational lock 1 g 323 which prevents rotation of the rotating portion 322 when engaged, and an outrigger 19 portion 324. The handle 316 remains fixed during rotation and does not move while the tool 210' is used for measuring. hIsead, the rotating portion 322 is rotated to a start 21 position and the rotational lock is engaged, securing the rotating portion 322 to the tactile 22 feedback portion 318 and thereby preventing its rotation. The scroll 317 is configured 23 with a notch 325 or similar mating feature to align with a corresponding mating feature 24 (not shown) of the handle 316, such that the scroll can only align at one rotational point, at 0 degrees, with respect to the handle 316 upon loading into the tool 2 10', by 26 "snapping" into place. The sharp marking point 326 located inside the ring 320 under the 27 sharp marking point 326, marks a point of depression into the scroll 317 while first button 28 321 is being depressed. Instead of marking by malcing depressions on a scroll or spool, 24' 1 markinig could alternatively be made upon nearly any sufface, using ink to record otn 2 a paper spool, or by digital means.

3 As shown in FIGS.- 20f and 20g, outer shaft 3 33, which is fixedly coupled to 4 rotating portion 322, outrigger 324 and ring 320, is freely rotatably disposed about inner shaft 330 and Blidably disposed about inner shaft 330 within a range bounded by points 06 334 and 337. In FIG. 20f, the outrigger 324 is retracted, and duter shaft 333 is located at 7 a position of origin along a z-axis parallel to the inner 330 and outer'333 shafts, such that o8 the proximal end of the ring 320 is located at position 335. In FIG. 20g, the outrigger 9 324 is extended, and outer shaft 333 is located at a position .250 in. (.64 cm.) from the origin of the z-axis parallel to the inner 330 and outer 333 shaft, such that the proximal I1I end of the ring 320 is located at position 335'. The motion of the sliding of the outer 12 shaft 333 about inner shaft 330 during marking is translated via the outer shaft 33, 13 rotating portion 322 and ring 320 (including marking button 321 and marking point 326) 14 to a location along the scroll 317. Thus, as the user rotates outrigger 324 by rotation of rotating portion 322, the outrigger moves along the articular surface proximally or 1 6 distally with respect to the inner shaft, and the displacement of the outrigger 324 along a 17. z-axis parallel to the inner 330 and outer 333 shafts may be marked on the scroll 317 by IS depression of the button 323 at various points along the rotation of the outrigger 324.

19 The tactile feedback portion 318 has a series of depressions 319 or other tactile feedback means, e.g. spring ball. plungers which engage in indentations (not shown) in the inner 21 shaft 330, spaced at 90 degrees from one another, so that when the rotational lock 323 is 22 engaged as rotating portion 322 is being rotated, the user feels a "click" or other tactile 23 feedback to indicate to the user the rotational location of the rotating portion 322 at 24 degree intervals with respect to the handle 316, at 90 degrees,. 180 degrees, 270 degrees, and 0 (or 360) degrees, for purposes of marking at thosepoints. It is further 26 noted that the starting point for rnarldng may or may not be selected independent of the 27 90-degree rotational points, and that the rotating portion 322 may or may not be 28 configured so that it is not fled to the 90-degree indexing until the scroll lock 3 23 is 29 engaged.

I ~As shown in FIGS. 20;, 20h and 201, a keyed mating feature 331 may be disposed' 2 at the distal end of the inner shaft 330 with respect to the-outrigger portion, for mating 3 With a key feature 315 on the screw 10' (as shown in FIGS. 9c and 20i), so as to locate 4 properly the starting point of the measurements taken with respect to the screw, arid the scroll 317. FIG. 20h illustrates a more detailed view of the distal end of the marking tool 06. 210', with outer shaft 3'33, inner shaft 330 with keyed mating feature 33 1, and outrigger 7 324 with rounded end 338, which travels along th'path of circle 339. FIG. 20i illustrates o8 the measuring tool 210', with the keyed mating feature 33 1 inserted into the recessed 9 portion 303 of the screw 10' at its fixation clement 302.

Referring now to FIG. 14a, data recorded during the mapping procedure described i 1 above can then be entered into a known parametric engineering design software or 12 similar algorithm, as four values, 85a, 85b, 85c, and 8Kd corresponding to the four 13 measured points, 8 1; ,8ib, 82a and 82b, with the origin 80 defining a reference plane.

14 These four values 85a, 85b, 85c and 85d, are represented by line elements that are is geometrically constrained to lie upon a circle 90, which represents the diameter of the 16. measuring tool 70. These line elements are also constrained to lie within planes that are 17 perpendicular to one another. Of course, more than four points maybe taken end used to 18 map the articular surface, 8 points; however, a minimum of four points should be 19 taken, so that two intersecting datum curves may be defined for purposes of mapping.

Datum curves 86 and 87, representing the medial-lateral and anterior- 21 posterior curves, are constructed by connecting the end points of the line elements 22 8Sla and Si1b, and 82a and 82b and the point of origin 80, which is common to both 23 curves. These two datum curves 86 and 87 can be used to construdt the articular or 24 bottom surface 41 of the prosthetic implant 40. By sweeping dattm curve 87 along a pat defined by datum curve 86, a three dimensional surfhce is now defined.

26 By constructing this series of geometric relationships in a known parametric 27 engineering model, patient-specific geometry can be input as values and the model algorithm can be run to reproduce the anatomic contours mapped in the patients within 29 only'a few moments. As a process, this generic model is thle starting point for all patient 1 treatments. Sterile pins, screws, and measuring devices that are all non-patient-specific 2 may be stocked in the. hospital and ready to use whenever an appropriate defect is 3 diagnosed. Patient-specific data may be transmitted from the surgeon to the fabricating 4 facility via an interface to the Internet or other network. Data input into the interface may be read directly into the generic parametric model to produce a viewable and even O6 mappable patient-speific parametric model within moments. Confirmation by the tfl7 surgeon could initiate a work order far the production of the patient specific device.

O E xisting technology allows the parametric model to generate toolpaths and programaming, 9 to a CAD/CAM system comprising appropriate hardware and/or software coupled to.

io appropriate data-driven tools, to fabricate the implant.

11 Defining two additional datum curves 88 and 89, at offset distances from datum L2 curves 86 and 87, is performed to define the top or non-bearing surface 42 of the implant 13 40. This top surface 42 should be closely matched to the bearing surface geometry to be 14 implanted without having to remove an excessive quantity of bone from the chondral surface.

16 Referring to FIGS. 14c and 19c, implant geometry may be defined whereby the 17 top or bone contacting surface 42 of the implant 40 exhibits an axial symmetry. The Is central axis AA passes through the point of origin 80 of the implant 40 and when the 19 implant is positioned at the target site, aligns with the original reference axis 20A as defined by the guide pin 20 and fixation screw 10. The central axis AA can then be used 21 to define the preparation tools so that the bone contacting surfaces 42 of the implant 22 and the preparation tools can be matched in both configuration and dimension to create a 23 mhating fit between the surface of the prepared target site and the bone contacting surfaces 24 42 of the implant For example, if the preparation tool s can be fabricated using some of the same dimensions obtained during the articular surface mapping procedure, the 2Z6 implant geometry'and corresponding preparation tool geometry can be mated and 27 optimized so that a min imumn vertical thickness of the implant as well as a minimum 28 depth of bone removal is required. This may be advantageous in ensuring good long 29 term. clinical results with the implant, as poor quality of fit between bone surfaces and I bone-contacting surfaces of traditional orthopedic prosthetic devices has been noted to 2 contribute to early clinical failures.

3 ]For example, as shown in FIGS 14c and 19Sc the top or bonh contacting surface 42 ON4 of the implant 40, a series of radial cuts 1 9 8 g my create surfaces that increase resistance of the implant to rotational forces. These features may be located at the outer diameter O6 190 of the implant 40 to increase their effectiveness. Additional contact surfaces may 7 also be created by one or more protrusions 195 located on the bottom 42 of the implant.

O8 Similarly, surface treatments known in the field of orthopedic devices, such as porous ci 9 and/or osteocouductive coatings, may be utilized on surface 42.

As shown in FIG. [Sb, outer diamet er 190 may include a slight outward taper or I I protrusion 197 along the diametrical surface to enhance load bearing or load transfer 12 properties of the implant to surrounding bone. This feature may also increa se the fixation 13 strength of the implant. A fillet 199 (as shown in FIG. 19a) that runs around the implant 14 at the intersection of the diametrical surface 190 and the bearing sutface 41 is also useful in providing a smooth transition between the host articular cartilage. and the implant 16 surface.

17, However, if a greater depth of implant is needed as a result of the defect 1s appearance the offset curves 88 and 89 (as shown in FIG. 14a) can he extended to 19 increase the overall thickness of the implant 40 or the offset curves may be eliminated entirely so that the contoured surface is backed by a revolved geometry that is 21 symmetrical to reference axis 20A. Turning to FIG. 19c, where the ML curve and A? 22 curve (defined bythe obtained measurements) are not axialy symmetrical, the thickness 23 of the implant 40 requires adjustment. At the same time, an unnecessarily thick implant 24- requires a greater amount of bone to be removed at the target site', Therefore, the thickness of the implant may be determined by taking the largest-obtained measurement 26 and adding a minimal offset amount 208. (The implant is thinnest at the highest point on 27 the MN 1 curve.) This can be similarly accomplished by adjusting the angle A (FIG. 19a) 28 of the bone-contacting surface 42 of the implant 40 and a corresponding angle of the 29 preparation tool. This also allows for a correction of the implant geometry, to i 1 compensate for any non-perpendicular placement of the guide pin with respect to the 2 articular surface.

3 With reference now to FIGS. 25 and 26, an exemplary algorithm consistent with 4 the invention establishes the minimum thickness of an implant necessary to include all patient data points, receiving as input all of the points measured (typically, four) and 6 identifying the largest value. One such exemplary algorithm is as follows (and as shown tn 7 in FIGS. 25 and 26): 8 maxval= D6 9 if maxval D 11 maxval Dl 11 endif 12 if maxval< D 14 13 maxval D14 14 endif D684 maxval +.045 16 17 In the foregoing exemplary algorithm, a first data point D6 is initially assigned as the 18 maximum value (maxval). If.. then type statements are used to compare other data 19 points (DII and D14) to maxval. If other data points are greater than maxval, the algorithm reassigns maxval to the new larger data point LLMT represents the height of 21 the lower limit plane along the z-axis, and ULMT represents the height of the upper limit 22 plane along the z-axis. D684 is a dimension that controls the UJLMT plane, which is 23 established in the model as the upper surface of the implant. ULMT is positioned as 24 maxval plus an additional arbitrary and/or fixed material offset (.045 in this case).

FIGS. 5c and 5d illustrate an alternative embodiment of the implani 40', having a 26 ML curve between data points 340 and 341 and an AP curve between data points 342 and 1 343, with male-shaped mating component 304 and key-shaped portion 344 for *2 engagement with a reciprocal keyshaped surface in the proximal extension of a fixation 3 screw, protrusions 345 (creating contact surfaces on the top 346 of the implant 4' radial cuts 347 located at the outer diameter 348 of the implant 40', and radius 349 (which may be formed, e.g. using an abrasive wheel) around the intersection of the outer O6 diameter at point 341 and the surface comprising the patient geometry.

In7 Referring to FIGS. 18Ba and 18b, bone cutting or scaring instrument 25 0 in~cludes a 8 handle (not shown), a camulated shaft I111 that extends through the handle, and offset 9 arm 140 housing adjustable blades 141. Bn the embodiment shown, individual cutting blades 141 are attached to offset arm 140 tither fixedly or removably, e.g. via threaded 11 portions 142, into threaded recesses 342 of the offset ann 140, although other attachment 12 means may be used. With guide pin 20 advanced through shaft 113 positioned on the 13 reference axis 20A, a fixed distance from the rotational or references axis 20A to. eacb of 14 the cutting or scoring blades 141 is established. These lengths define the radii that are is to be effected in the articular surface, as the scoring instrument 250 is rotated around the 16 guide pin 20, corresponding tothe protrusions 195 on the bone contacting surface 42 of 17 the implant 40 creating a matching fit between the'bone surfaces.of the prepared target 18 site and the bone contacting surfaces of the implant.

19 In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18Sc, cutting blades are arranged on carrer 145, configured so that it can be mounted within the slotted surface 114 of 21 offset ann 112, depicted in FIG. 17a. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. I d 22 cuffing blacks 141 can be fixedly positionied on offset arm 140. Using the same 23 dimensions obtained during articular surface mapping procedure,-the cutting and scoring 24 device 250 can be fabricated to prepare the articular surface to correspond to the implant geometry to optimize fit. Bn another alternative embodiment, as shown ini FIG. i~e, a 26 bone cutting instrument 352 corresponds to the alternative. embodiment of the implant 27 illustrated in FIGS. 5c and 5d. Instrument 352 has a handle (not shown), a cannulated 28 shaft 353 that extends through the handle and through the cannulation 355, offset arm 29 354 with blades 350 and 351 corresponding to the protrusions 345 on the bone contacting 1 surface 42 of the-implant 40 creating a matching fit between the, bane surfaces of the 2 prepared target site and the bone contacting surfaces 346 of the implant 3 As shown in FIG. 14b, an angular dimension 95, 'relating some locating surface or ON4 feature on the hex-shaped cover 30 or on the fixation screw f10, to the four points Si1 a, 8 Sib, 82a and 82b, may also be captured at the time of the initial procedure to assist in c-i6 orieniation of the implant 40 to the fixation screw 10. Guide aperture 46 in implant 40 is o7 located off the reference axis 20A and may serve as the locating feature and/or as a suture 08 passage way in the implantation procedure. .Alternatively, a surface or feature created on 9 the implant 40, may sere to reference or align to such locating surface on the hex-shaped cover 30 or the fixation screw 11 Additional data can be taken at the time of the initial procedure, for 12 fabricating a non-circular implant. Additional data curves can also be defined by 13 measuring the offsets from the reference axis 20A and deternining diameters at these 14. offsets. The final implant geometry, although measured using circular techniques, need not be circular.

16 Referring to FIGS. i0a and l0b, following fabrication of the implant 40, a second 17 procedure is performed. If a cover 30 (or plug) is in place, it is removed, exposing .18 proximal extension 14 (or recess) or some other precision taper or engagement surface 19 located at the proximal end 17 of the fixation screw 10 to which the implant 40 is to be affixed. A pin having a distally mounted element or barb 5 is placed through trough 21- hole 16 running through the central lumen of the fixation screw 10 so that the distally 22 mounted element 5 is secured into the screw. The distally mounted element S carries one 23 or more suture strands 85 that now trail from the fixation screw 10. Alternatively, a pin, 24 braided cable, or flexible wire may also be used. However, sutures may make passing the implant 40 through the incision 200 and subsequent handling easier, 26 Turning to FIGS. 1 la and 1 Tb) the sutures 85 are then threaded through guide 27 .apetr 46 of theimplant 40 and a knot or bead 49 may be created proximal to the 28 implant, so that tensing one of the free running sutures 85 helps to advance the implant 1 40 toward the proximal extension 14 (or recess) of the fixation screw 10. Alternatively, 2 the suture strands 85 can be passed through the central lumen or shaft of a driving rod or 3 other instniment to aid in seating the implant 40, and positioned in the fixation screw 4 thereafter.

If necessary, the arthroscopic wound 200 is expanded slightly in either a vertical Cl6 or horizontal direction, so that the implant 40 may be passed through. A polymeric o7 sleeve (not shown) positioned over the implant may prove helpful in passing the implant 08 trough the incision. As shown in FIG. lib, based on the size of the 9 anatomy of the knee 50, and retraction of the knee, it may be necessary to position the implant in the interchondular notch 77 as a staging area prior to final placement. By 11i continuing to manipulate and tension the suture strands 85, the implant 40 can be brought -12, coaxial to the proximal extension 14 of the fixation screw 13 As shown -in FIGS. 15t and 15d, alternatively, driver 130 includes handle 110, a 14-- cannulated shaft 111 that extends through the handle and a cannulated seat portion 131 attached to the end of the shaft. Tether element 135, which1 may comprise sutures -or 16 wire, is passed through driver 130 and is threaded through implant 40 through. guide 17 aperture 46, connecting the implant to the driver toward seat portion 131. The implant 18 40 and the driver 130 are then inserted. aitliroscopically through incision 200 to the target -19' site. By tensioning tether element 135 at the end 136 of handle 110, the implant 40 is drawn back into seat portion 131 of driver 130. By maintaining tension on tether element 21 135, the implant 40 can then be controllably delivered to the prepared target site. At 22 least the inner surface of seat portion 131 comprises a material that can be impacted to 23 seat the implant 40 without damaging the implant surfahce.

24 Referring to FIG. 12, once coaxial, the implant 40 can be aligned via engagement of the proximal extension 14 on fixation screw 10 and precisions-taper 44 on the bottom 26 surface 42 of the implant and any locating feature, arid driven into place with a plastic 27 driving rod 91 and mallet 95. A protrusion -92 of high strength material mounted at the 28 distal tip 93 of the driving rod 91 may be necessary to ensure that the rod stays centered 29 on the implant 40 during driving.

I Finally, as shown in FIG. 13, through guide aperture 46 on the upper surface 41 of 2 the implant 40, bone cement 300 may be injected to enhance the contact surface between 3 the implant 40 and the subehondral bone 100. Vents, such as milled slots 13 in the 4 fixation screw 10, and in the walls of the implant central protrusion may be desirable to.

facilitate the flow of such materials.

ci6 Alternatively, guide aperture 46 in the implant 40 may be altogether eliminated by o 7 using an alternative implant delivery system, as shown in FIGS. 1 9d through 1 9i, 0a corresponding to an implant similar to that shown in FIGS. 5c and 5d. The alternative 9 system comprises the implant 40" and a washer 3 61 for holding a suture 363, the washer io 361 being adapted to fit into a taper lock ring 360. The ring 360 has a taper lock portion 11 3 62 having a series of notches 365 along its perimeter, creating flaps 3 72 that permit the 12 taper lock'portion 362 to flex somewhat. The taper lock portion 362 has a diameter 13 gradually tapering from the middle to the proximal end 3 64 of the ring. The taper lock 14 ring 360 may also have an alignment notch 386 or similar feature for properly aligning the taper lock ring 360 with respect to key-shaped portion 344 of the implant 40", which 16 is to engage with a reciprocal key-shaped surface in the proximal extension of a fixation 17. screw, so as to seat properly the implant rotationally with respect to the defect site when 1s it is later seated thereon. A washer 361 is disposed between the-ring 360 and the implant 19 40" and has -two apertures 366 disposed in a recessed area 367 in the center of the washer. The suture 363 is threaded through the two apertures 366 to form a suture loop 21 .368, which remains in the recessed area when the ends of the suture 363 are pulled, so as 22 to keep the suture loop 368 below the top surface 369 of the washer 361. The implant 23 40" has a diameter at its center portion 370 that is apprimatcly equal to the inner 24 diameter of the ring 360 at its taper lock portion 362. Thus, when tension is applied to the ends of the suture 363, the taper lock portion 362 of the ring 360 may flex outward to 26 receive slidably therein the imnplant 40" and washer 36 1, which subsequently lock into 27 the taper lack portion 3 62 of the ring, once the center portion 370 of the sides of the 28- implant 40" is seated within the proximal. end 364 of the ring by friction fit as shown in FIG. 1%e. It is noted that the center portion 370 of the sides of the implant 40" to be of a i width permitting the implant and washer to travel slidably within the ring 360 to some 2 degree.

3 As shown in FIG. 19f, a hex nut 373 may be integrally formed in the cehter of the 4 washer 361 on its bottom side 374, for mating with an appropriately configured tool for seating the implant 40". As FIG. 19f' illustrates, the implant 40 along with washer 36 1, 0 6 ring 360, and sutures 363, is pushed through the incision 200 at the defect site. Ne'xt, as o7 shown in FIGS. .19g- 19i, illustrative of successive steps in the process of seating the O8 implant, a seating tool 380 may be used to seat the implant. Seating tool 380 comprises a 9 shaft 385, a handle 331 (which may have a through hole 382, if the same handle and/or t0 shaft is used with interchangeable tips for performing various functions, although a 11i through hole 3 82 is not integral to seating the implant), and tip 383 suitably configured to 12 drive hex nut 3 73 (or other mating feature) and having an aperture 3 84 through which the 13 ends of the suture 363 may be threaded. Once the tip 383 of the tool 380 is introduced 14 'into the incision 200, the sutures 363 may be used as a guide for seating the-tip 383 of the tool 380 onto the hex nut 373, which may be accomplished by alternately pulling on each 16 end of the suture 363 to toggle the tip 383 of the tool 380 back and forth. Once the tip 17 383 of the tool 380 is seated onto the hex nut 373, the tool 380 may be rotated in either 18. direction to seat the vipant assembly properly (comprising implant 40", taper lock ring 19 360, and washer 361) at the defect site. This may be effected by rotating tool 380 until alignment notch 386 and corresponding key-shaped portion 344 of the implant 40" are 21 aligned with the corresponding reciprocal key-shaped surface in the proximal extension 212 of the fixation screw, whereby the implant should slide into place, thereby properly n3 seating the implant rotationally with respect to the defect site, As shown in FIG. 12 with 24 respect to the prior described embodiment, once properly seated, the implant 40 can be driven into place with a plastic driving rod 91 and mallet 95, and as shown in FIG. 13 26. with respect to the prior described embodiment, hone cement 300 may also be placed 27 prior to the final seating of the implant 40 to cfidiance the contact suface b etween the 28 implant 40" and-the subchondral bone 100, It should be understood that the taper lock 29 ring 360, washer 361, and sutures 363 described with respect to this embodiment allow 1 the implant to be noncannulated but still easily handled. These elements are not required 2 to be constructed as illustrated herein, and may be replaced by adhesive components; 3 suction components,.or other components serving the same function.

CN4 As FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate, a unitary (one-piece) implant 400 may also be constructed, thereby obviating the need for a -fixation screw, taper lock ring, washer, and 6 suture. In this embodiment implant 400 has key-shaped portion 401 for engagement o wit a reciprocal key-shaped surface 411 in an aperture 412 at the defect site 410, a O8 plurality of barbs 402 for producing outward tension within the aperture 412 at the defect 9 site 410 and for increasing the contact surface area of the implant 400 with respect to the aperture 412 at the defect site 410. In this embodiment an aperture 412 having a key- 11 shaped surface 411 or other feature for mating with the implant is created directly in the 12 defect site 410, by boring, abrasion, or other techniques for forming an appropriately 13 .shaped aperture in the chondral bone 4 10 for receiving an implant 400 having a 14 corresponding key-shaped or other mating feature 401. It should also be recognized that, in this or other embodiments, the fixation screw could be replaced with a tensioned 16 member attachment, anchored to the distal femoral cortex. Alternatively, the 17 fixation screw could be configured as a gude wire, only to define the axis AA is corresponding to an axis about the point of origin in the implant to be used (as shown in ig FIGS. 14c and 19c), but not to provide mechanical anchoring to or for the implant FIG. 23 illustrates other alternative embodiments for an implant consistent with 21 the invention, showing a perspective view of the components of an exemplary composite 22 implant, in one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, implant 500 comprises 23 top 501 and bottom 502 portions. Top portion 501 has a bottom surface 503 which may 24 be glued, welded, bonded, or-otherwise attached to top surface 504 of bottom portion 502, while bottom surface 505 of bottom portion 502 comprises the patient geometry and 26 is the load-bearing surface of the implant, as set forth hereinabove. Top 504 and bottom 27 505 surfaces of the bottom portion 502 may comprise, in whole or in part, bioengineered 28 Material, while top portion 501 may comprise a material such as titanium. In such a 29 configuration, top portion 501 may be fabricated and/or manufactured in large I quantities) as a universal, generic, standard supply item for medical practitioners, which 2 merely needs to be attached to a custom-machined bottom portion 502 comprising the 3 patient-specific geometry. Surfaces 503 and 504 may be flat or may comprise other 4 mating features, shapes or configurations.

0 Further composite implant embodiments are illustrated in FIG. 24, wherein c- 6 implant 600 comprises the patient-specific geometry 606 and a uniform thickness o 7 material bottom portion 602 comprising the bottom or bearing surface 606. The bottom 0 8 surface 603 of top portion 601 mates with the top surface 604 of bottom portion 602, and 9 surfaces 603 and 604 may be flat or may comprise other mating features, shapes or configurations. Lip 605 of bottom portion 602 has an inside diameter substantially the i I same as the outside diameter of top portion 601, so that top portion 601 fits slidably into 12 bottom portion 602, whereby the two portions 601 and 602 may be glued, welded, 13 bonded, or otherwise attached to one another. Bottom surface 606, being of uniform 14 thickness, reflects the patient-specific geometry which surface 603 comprises and is the load-bearing surface of the implanL 16 Other materials from which an implant consistent with the invention may be 17 constructed, in whole or in part, include ceramic, e.g. aluminum oxide or zirconium 18 oxide; metal and metal alloys, e.g. Co-Cr-W-Ni, Co-Cr-M, CoCr alloys, CoCr 19 Molybdenum alloys, Cr-Ni-Mn alloys, powder metal alloys, 3 16L stainless steel, Ti 6A] 4V ELI; polymers, polyurethane, polyethylene (wear resistant and cross-linked), 21, thermoplastic elastomers; biomaterials, e.g. polyeaprolactone; and diffusion hardened 22 materials, e.g. Ti-13-13, Zirconium and Niobium. Coatings used may include, e.g., 23 porous coating systems on bone-contacting surfaces, hydrophilic coatings on load- 24 bearing surfaces, hydroxyapatite coatings on bone-contacting surfaces, and tri-calcium phosphate on bone-contacting surfaces. Additionally, components of the invention may 26 be molded or cast, hand-fhbricated or machined, 27 Alternatively, measurement methods may be utilized whereby radius 28 measurements are taken with respect to an axis At corresponding to an axis about the 29 point of origin in the implant to be used (as shown in FIGS. 14c and 19c). The technique I is used in reverse, whereby aiming devices are used to place axis AA with respect to 2 prefabricated generic-geometry implants.

3 it is noted that, although the invention is herein described as utilizing a single 4 reference axis, multiple reference axes may be used for measuring, mapping, or cutting a single defect or an articular surface having multiple defect, as well as for fabricating a ci6 single implant, or multiple implants for a single articular surface, consistent with the o 7 invention. In other embodiments, methods for mapping the defect and/or articular o a surface other than those described hereinabove are possible, NW. or CT scanning.

9 It is further noted that, although the invention is described herein as utilizing the lo specific geometry of a patient's articular surface to fabricate an implant for that patient, it 11 is contemplated that data from a plurality of patients may be analyzed statistically and 12 utilized in fabricating and/or manufacturing in large quantities) one or more 13 universal, generic, or standard supply item type implants for medical practitioners to use 14 in a procedure consistent with the invention. For such implants, as well as for patientspecific implants as described herein, pre- or post-implantation trimming may be required 16 to correct for minor variations that may occur as between the implauit and the subehondral 17 'bone (or other articular surface).

18 It should be understood that, altough the various tools described hereinabove, I19 for measuring, cutting, and seating, are described as separate devices, a single handle, shaft and/or instriument may be configured to serve as a universal mounting tool 21 for a series of devices for performing various functions consistent with the invention.

22 Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is subject to other 23 modifications and/or alterations, all of which are dteemed within the scope of the present 24 invention, as defined in the hereinafter appended claims.

Claims

1. An implant system, comprising: a screw configured to engage bone beneath a patient's articular surface, said screw comprising a threaded portion and a first fixation element, said screw is further configured to be implanted into said bone such that said first fixation element is adjustable with respect to said articular surface by adjusting the depth of said screw into said patient's bone; and an implant having a load bearing surface that substantially matches at least one curvature of said patient's articular surface, said implant comprising a second fixation element configured to engage with said first fixation element to secure said implant to said screw.

2. The implant system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of said first or said second fixation elements includes a tapered surface.

3. The implant system according to claim 1, wherein said first fixation element comprises a male member and said second fixation element comprises a female member.

4. The implant system according to claim 3, wherein said male member comprises a generally cylindrical extension having a taper.

The implant system according to claim 1, wherein said screw further comprises a drive configured to engage with a driver.

6. The implant system according to claim 5, wherein said drive comprises a hex- shaped drive.

7. The implant system according to claim 6, wherein said generally cylindrical extension extends from said hex-shaped drive.

8. The implant system according to claim 3, wherein said female member comprises a protrusion extending generally outwardly from a bone-facing distal surface, said protrusion including a tapered recess.

9. The implant system according to claim 1, wherein said first fixation element comprises a female member and said second fixation element comprises a male member.

10. The implant system according to claim 9, wherein said female member comprises a tapered recess disposed proximate a proximal-most cnd of said screw.

11. The implant system according to claim 10, wherein said male member comprises a protrusion extending generally outwardly from a bone-facing distal surface, at least a portion of an outer surface of said protrusion having a taper.

12. The implant system according to claim 11, wherein said screw further comprises a drive configured to engage with a driver.

13. The implant system according to claim 12, wherein said drive comprises a hex- shaped drive.

14. The implant system according to claim 13, wherein said hex-shaped drive is disposed about a proximal-most end of said screw.

The implant system according to claim 14, wherein said threaded portion extends from said hex-shaped drive to a distal end of said screw.

16. The implant system according to claim I, wherein said screw comprises a passageway disposed along a longitudinal axis of said screw.

17. The implant system according to claim 1, wherein said screw comprises a tapered distal end and aggressive distal threads configured to dilate open and radially compress said bone.

18. The implant system according to claim 17, wherein a diameter of a center region of said screw is substantially uniform along a longitudinal axis of said screw. I

19. The implant system according to claim 1, wherein said first and second fixation elements are further configured to permit said implant to rotate with respect to said screw before said implant is secured to said screw.

20. The implant system according to claim 1, wherein implant is configured to be rotated to a predetermined alignment with respect to said articular surface before said implant is secured to said screw.

21. An implant system comprising: a screw configured to engage bone beneath a patient's articular surface, said screw comprising a tapered threaded portion and a first fixation element, said screw is further configured to be implanted into said bone such that first fixation element is adjustable with respect to said articular surface by adjusting the depth of said screw into said patient's bone; and an implant having a load bearing surface that substantially matches at least one curvature of said patient's articular surface, said implant comprising a second fixation element configured to engage with said first fixation element to secure said implant to said screw.

22. An implant system comprising: a screw configured to engage bone beneath a patient's articular surface, said screw comprising a tapered threaded portion and a first fixation element, said screw is further configured to be implanted into said bone such that first fixation element is adjustable with respect to said articular surface by adjusting the depth of said screw into said patient's bone; and an implant having a load bearing surface that substantially matches at least one curvature defined by a plurality of measurements taken at said patient's articular surface, said implant comprising a second fixation element configured to engage with said first fixation element to secure said implant to said screw.

23. An implant system, comprising: a screw comprising a threaded portion configured to engage bone beneath a patient's articular surface; an implant having a load bearing surface that substantially matches at least one curvature of said patient's articular surface; and a fixation element configured to couple said screw and said implant, wherein said fixation element is further configured to permit said implant to rotate with respect to said screw.

24. The implant system according to claim 23, wherein said fixation element is further configured to secure said implant to said screw.

25. The implant system according to claim 24, wherein said fixation element comprises a first fixation element coupled to said screw and a second fixation element coupled to said implant.

26. The implant system according to claim 25, wherein at least one of said first or said second fixation elements includes a tapered surface.

27. The implant system according to claim 25, wherein said first fixation element comprises a male member and said second fixation element comprises a female member.

28. The implant system according to claim 27, wherein said male member comprises a generally cylindrical extension having a taper.

29. The implant system according to claim 28, wherein said female member comprises a protrusion extending generally outwardly from a bone-facing distal surface, said protrusion including a tapered recess.

The implant system according to claim 25, wherein said first fixation element comprises a female member and said second fixation element comprises a male member.

31. The implant system according to claim 30, wherein said female member comprises a tapered recess disposed proximate a proximal-most end of said screw.

32. The implant system according to claim 31, wherein said male member comprises a protrusion extending generally outwardly from a bone-facing distal surface, at least a portion of an outer surface of said protrusion having a taper.

33. The implant system according to either claim 1 or claim 25, wherein said first and said second fixation elements each include a tapered surface configured to engage each other in a snap-fit arrangement.

34. The implant system according to either claim I or 25, wherein said first and said second fixation elements each include a tapered surface configured to engage each other in a press-fit arrangement.

The implant system according to either claim 1 or 25, wherein said first and said second fixation elements each include a tapered surface configured to engage each other in a threaded arrangement.

36. An implant system substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to anyone of the drawings.