U.S. patent application number 10/303192 was filed with the patent office on 2003-04-24 for hard or soft tissue closure.
Invention is credited to Antaki, James F., Frushell, Matthew R., Holmes, John Andrew, Johnson, Greg A., Magovern, James A., Will, Thomas David.
Application Number | 20030078585 10/303192 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24401036 |
Filed Date | 2003-04-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030078585 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Johnson, Greg A. ; et
al. |
April 24, 2003 |
Hard or soft tissue closure
Abstract
An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal. A method for
holding a first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone
together for the bone to heal. A suture. A grommet for a bone. A
method for securing a suture through a bone.
Inventors: |
Johnson, Greg A.;
(Pittsburgh, PA) ; Antaki, James F.; (Allison
Park, PA) ; Magovern, James A.; (Pittsburgh, PA)
; Frushell, Matthew R.; (Gibsonia, PA) ; Will,
Thomas David; (Liberty Boro, PA) ; Holmes, John
Andrew; (Wexford, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Ansel M. Schwartz
Suite 304
201 N. Craig Street
Pittsburgh
PA
15213
US
|
Family ID: |
24401036 |
Appl. No.: |
10/303192 |
Filed: |
November 25, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10303192 |
Nov 25, 2002 |
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09599775 |
Jun 22, 2000 |
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6485504 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/303 ;
606/103; 606/228; 606/322; 606/323; 606/328; 606/74; 606/916 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/0401 20130101;
A61B 2017/0649 20130101; A61B 2017/0648 20130101; A61B 2017/0443
20130101; A61B 17/823 20130101; A61B 2017/044 20130101; A61B
17/0642 20130101; A61B 17/8861 20130101; A61B 17/0482 20130101;
A61B 2017/0462 20130101; A61B 17/686 20130101; A61B 17/0466
20130101; A61B 2017/0647 20130101; A61B 2017/00867 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/72 ; 606/103;
606/74 |
International
Class: |
A61B 017/58 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising: a first
bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into the first portion
of the bone; a second bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion
into a second portion of the bone; a suture which is threaded
through the first and second sleeves; and a pusher for pushing the
first and second sleeves into the first and second portions of the
bone, respectively, wherein when the suture is tightened, the first
and second portions are pulled together and the first and second
sleeves bend and protect the first and second portions from the
suture.
2. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: inserting a first bendable hollow sleeve into the first
portion of the bone; inserting a second bendable hollow sleeve into
the second portion of the bone; threading a suture through the
first and second sleeves; and pulling the first portion and second
portion together with the suture and causing the first and second
sleeves to bend and protect the first and second portions from the
suture contacting the first and second portions.
3. A method as described in claim 2 including after the pulling
step, there is the step of closing the first and second ends of the
suture together.
4. A method as described in claim 3 wherein the first sleeve
inserting step includes the step of placing a pusher in the first
sleeve, pushing the first sleeve through the first portion with the
pusher, and removing the pusher from the first sleeve.
5. A method as described in claim 4 wherein the second sleeve
inserting step includes the step of placing the pusher in the
second sleeve, pushing the second sleeve through the second portion
with the pusher, and removing the pusher from the second
sleeve.
6. A method as described in claim 5 wherein before the inserting
the first sleeve step, there is the step of forming a hole through
the first portion.
7. A method as described in claim 6 wherein before the inserting
the second sleeve step, there is the step of forming a hole through
the second portion.
8. A method as described in claim 2 wherein after the first sleeve
inserting step, there is the step of seating a cap of the first
sleeve on the top surface of the first portion and after the second
sleeve inserting step, there is the step of seating a cap of the
second sleeve on a top surface of the second portion.
9. An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising: a first
bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into the first portion
of the bone, the first sleeve having a cap adapted to seat on a top
surface of the first portion; a second bendable hollow sleeve
adapted for insertion into a second portion of the bone, the second
sleeve having a cap adapted to seat on a top surface of the second
portion; and a suture which is threaded through the first and
second sleeves.
10. An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising: a first
bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into the first portion
of the bone; a second bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion
into a second portion of the bone; a suture which is threaded
through the first and second sleeves; and an implantor which holds
the first or second sleeve and inserts the first or second sleeve
into the first or second portion, respectively.
11. An apparatus as described in claim 9 wherein the implantor has
a housing of a cylindrical shape with a groove in which the first
or second sleeve fits, and with a pointed end.
12. A method as described in claim 2 wherein the inserting the
first sleeve step includes the step of inserting an implantor in
which the first sleeve is disposed into the first portion and
wherein the inserting the second sleeve step includes the step of
inserting the implantor in which the second sleeve is disposed into
the second portion.
13. A method as described in claim 12 wherein before the first
sleeve inserting step, there is the step of placing the first
sleeve with the implantor.
14. An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising: a
hollow tube adapted to extend from the first and second portions; a
suture which is adapted to extend through the hollow tube when the
hollow tube extends through the first and second portion; a first
bottom cap and second bottom cap disposed on the suture and adapted
to fit in the bottom of the first and second portion, respectively;
and a first top cap and second top cap through which the suture is
inserted when the tube is removed, said first and second cap
adapted to fit in the top of the first and second portions,
respectively.
15. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: inserting a first end of a hollow tube into the top
surface of the first portion, through the first portion and out the
bottom of the first portion; inserting a second end of the hollow
tube into the top surface of the second portion, through the second
portion and out the bottom of the second portion; inserting a first
end of the suture having a first bottom cap and second bottom cap
on the suture into the first end of the hollow tube until it
extends past the top surface of the first portion; inserting a
second end of the suture having the first bottom cap and second
bottom cap on the suture into the second end of the hollow tube
until it extends past the top surface of the second portion;
removing the tube from the suture and the first and second portion;
sliding the first bottom cap along the suture to the bottom surface
of the first portion; placing the first bottom cap into the bottom
surface of the first portion; sliding the second bottom cap along
the suture to the bottom surface of the second portion; placing the
second bottom cap into the bottom surface of the second portion;
placing a first top cap over the first end of the suture and into
the top surface of the first portion; placing a second top cap over
the second end of the suture and into the top surface of the second
portion; moving the first portion and second portion together; and
closing the first end and second end of the suture together to hold
the first portion and second portion together.
16. A suture comprising: a wire adapted to extend through bone of a
patient; and an insulation portion disposed about the wire and
adapted to protect the bone from the wire.
17. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: extending a suture comprising a wire and an insulation
portion about the wire through the first portion and the second
portion; pulling the first portion and second portion together; and
securing the first and second portions together with the suture
wherein the insulation of the suture protects the first portion and
second portion from the wire.
18. A grommet for a bone comprising: a top cap having a top flange
that is adapted to seat on the top surface of the bone and a
threaded portion which extends from the top flange and is adapted
to be disposed in the bone, the top flange and threaded portion
having a top channel extending through them; and a bottom cap
having a bottom flange that is adapted to seat on the bottom
surface of the bone and a bottom strut which extends from the
bottom portion and engages with the threaded portion to hold the
top cap to the bottom cap and is adapted to be disposed in the
bone, the bottom flange and a strut having a bottom channel
extending through them, the top channel and bottom channel adapted
for a suture to extend through the top channel and bottom
channel.
19. A method for securing a suture through a bone comprising:
placing a bottom cap of a grommet into the bone wherein a bottom
flange of the bottom cap seats on the bottom surface of the bone
and a bottom strut of the bottom cap connecting to the bottom
flange extends into the bone; placing a top cap of a grommet into
the bone wherein the top flange of the top cap seats on the top
surface of the bone and a threaded portion of the top cap is
connected to the top flange and extends into the bone and contacts
the bottom strut; screwing the threaded portion of the top cap into
the bottom strut; and passing a suture through the bone via a
channel of the top cap and bottom cap.
20. An apparatus for holding together a first portion of a bone and
a second portion of a bone for the bone to heal comprising: a wire
having a first end and a second end; a first needle attached to the
first end; a second needle attached to the second end; a first
bottom cap with a flange adapted for placement into the bottom of
the first portion with the wire through it; a second bottom cap
with a flange adapted for placement into the bottom of the second
portion with the wire through it; a first top cap with a flange
adapted for placement into the top of the first portion with the
wire through it; and a second top cap with a flange adapted for
placement into the top of the second portion with the wirethrough
it.
21. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: passing a first needle attached to a first end of a
suture through the first portion; passing a second needle attached
to a second end of a suture through the second portion; guiding a
first bottom cap through which the suture is disposed along the
suture until it contacts the first portion; inserting the first
bottom cap into the bottom of the first portion; guiding a second
bottom cap through which the suture is disposed along the suture
until it contacts the second portion; inserting the second bottom
cap into the bottom of the second portion; separating the first
needle from the first end; separating the second needle from the
second end; passing the first end through a first top cap; guiding
the first top cap along the wire; inserting the first top cap into
the top surface of the first portion; passing the second end
through a second top cap; guiding the second top cap along the
wire; inserting the second top cap into the top surface of the
second portion; and securing the suture in place about the first
and second portion by connecting the first and second ends.
22. An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising: a strap
made of a memory metal having a central portion with a right side
and a left side, a right portion that extends angularly downward
from the central portion adjacent to the right portion, and a left
portion that extends angularly downward from the central portion
adjacent to the left side, said right and left portion is adapted
to extend into and through the first and second portion of the
bone, respectively, with the central portion disposed along the top
surface of the first and second portions, the bottom of the right
and left portions curling and hooking into the first and second
portions, respectively, to grip the first and second portions.
23. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: inserting a right portion of a strap made of a memory
metal into and through the first portion of the bone and a left
portion of the strap into and through the second portion of the
bone with a central portion of the strap connecting the right
portion and the left portion and extending over and between the
first and second portions; and heating the right portion and left
portion until they curl and the bottom of the right and left
portions hook into the first and second portions, respectively.
24. An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising: a
plurality of grommets, each grommet having a channel, a flange
adapted to seat on the surface of the bone, and a tube which
extends from the flange and is adapted to be disposed in the bone;
a suture which extends through at least two of the plurality of
grommets which oppose each other when they are disposed in the
first and second portions of the bone, respectively; a poker which
removably fits in the channel of a grommet and has a pointed end
adapted to pierce the bone and to install the grommet into the
bone; and a platform against which the tube of one of the grommets
with the poker through it is pressed to cause the end of the tube
to flare out and form a bottom flange that seats on the bottom
surface of the bone.
25. An apparatus for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising: a
plurality of grommets, each having a channel and a top portion and
a bottom portion, each portion having a flange adapted to seat on
the surface of the bone, and a tube which extends from the flange
and is adapted to be disposed in the bone; a poker which removably
fits in the channel of the top and bottom portions and has a
pointed end adapted to pierce the bone and to install the top
portion into the bone and along which the bottom portion fits to be
guided into the bottom of the bone.
26. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: placing a poker having a pointed end through a channel of
a first grommet having a top flange and a tube which extends from
the top flange; inserting the poker, pointed end first, with the
first grommet on it through the top surface of the first portion
until it contacts a platform disposed adjacent the bottom surface
of the first portion and the tube of the grommet is disposed in and
extends through the first portion; pressing the poker against the
platform until the bottom of the tube flares out and forms a bottom
flange; and removing the poker from the first grommet leaving the
first grommet in the first portion with the top flange and bottom
flange adjacent to the top surface and bottom surface,
respectively; implanting a second grommet having a channel in the
second portion; extending a suture through the channels of the
first and second grommets; bringing the first and second portions
together; and securing the first and second portions together with
the suture.
27. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: placing a poker having a pointed end through a channel of
a top portion of a first grommet having a top flange and a tube
which extends from the top flange; inserting the poker, pointed end
first, with the top portion of the first grommet on it through the
top surface of the first wherein the flange seats on the top
surface of the first portion and the tube is disposed in the first
portion; placing a tube of a bottom portion of the first grommet on
the pointed end; sliding the bottom portion along the poker until a
flange of the bottom portion seats on the bottom surface of the
first portion and the tube of the bottom portion is in the bottom
of the first portion; removing the poker from the first grommet
leaving the first grommet in the first portion with the top flange
and bottom flange seated on the top surface and bottom surface,
respectively; implanting a second grommet having a channel in the
second portion; extending a suture through the channels of the
first and second grommets; bringing the first and second portions
together; and securing the first and second portions together with
the suture.
28. A grommet for a bone comprising: a top cap having a top flange
adapted for placement on the top surface of the bone and a top
strut adapted for placement in the bone extending from the top
flange, the top strut having slots disposed along its outer
surface, the top cap having a channel for a suture to extend
through, the top strut adapted for placement in the bone; and a
bottom cap having a bottom flange adapted for placement on the
bottom surface of the bone and a bottom strut adapted for placement
in the bone extending from the bottom flange, the bottom strut
having a catch extending from its inner surface to engage a slot to
secure the top cap and bottom cap together.
29. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone when to heal comprising the
steps of: inserting a top strut of a top cap of a first grommet
into a hole in the top surface of the first portion until a top
flange of the top cap seats on the top surface of the bone;
inserting a bottom strut of a bottom cap of the first grommet into
the hole in the bottom surface of the first portion until a catch
extending from the inner surface of the bottom strut of engages a
slot disposed along the outer surface of the top strut wherein the
top cap and bottom cap are secured together; inserting a second
grommet having a channel into a second portion of the bone;
threading a suture through a channel of the first grommet and the
channel of the second grommet; pulling the first portion the second
portion together; and securing the suture wherein the first portion
and second portion are secured together.
30. A grommet for insertion in a bone comprising: a housing having
a channel for a suture, the housing adapted for placement in the
bone, said housing having at least one pre-crimp in its wall which
expands outward and collapses when the housing is compressed in an
axial direction.
31. A method for placing a suture through a bone comprising the
steps of: inserting a grommet into a bone; compressing the grommet
axially from its top and bottom causing a pre-crimp in the housing
wall to extend outward and collapse to form an anchor in the bone;
and threading a suture through a channel in the grommet.
32. A grommet for implantation into a hole in hard or soft tissue
of a patient comprising: a spring having a head flange adapted to
seat on the top portion of the tissue; a tail flange adapted to
seat on the top portion of the tissue; and an elongate central
portion connected to the head flange and the tail flange.
33. A grommet as described in claim 32 wherein the tail flange has
a tail end which bends inwards.
34. A method for holding a first portion of a bone and a second
portion of a bone together for the bone to heal comprising the
steps of: placing a pushing rod having a pushing end with a slot
through a channel of a first grommet in a form of a spring having a
head flange, tail flange and central portion which connects with
the head flange and tail flange which extends from the top flange;
placing a tail end of the tail flange into the slot; twisting the
pushing rod so the tail flange and central portion narrow in
diameter; inserting the first grommet with the pushing rod into the
first portion until the tail flange extends from the bottom surface
of the first portion; removing the pushing rod from the first
grommet and the first portion so the tail flange and head flange
seat on the bottom and top surfaces, respectively, of the first
portion; implanting a second grommet having a channel in the second
portion; extending a suture through the channels of the first and
second grommets; bringing the first and second portions together;
and securing the first and second portions together with the
suture.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is related to the closure of hard or
soft tissue that has been separated. More specifically, the present
invention is related to the closure of a sternum with the use of
wire sutures inserted through grommets or sleeves and placed into
the sternum.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] There are various circumstances in which separated tissue of
a patient needs to be brought together so it can heal. Tissue is
defined as bone, muscle or fascia that has been divided to gain
access the thoracic cavity, mediastinum, or abdomen. For instance,
in chest surgery, many times the sternum is separated so a surgeon
can again gain access to the chest cavity and organs, muscle and
tissue therein. After the surgeon has finished his procedure
regarding the chest cavity, the sternum needs to be closed. Key to
the healing process of the sternum is the proper stabilization and
contact of the two severed sides together. Heretofore, there have
been many techniques used to bring the separated sides of the
sternum together and maintain them in contact so the healing
process can occur. However, these techniques generally limit the
movement the patient can experience without damaging or affecting
the healing sternum. Furthermore, the process of introducing tools
to bring the separated sides of the sternum together can itself
create risk or cause damage to the sternum.
[0003] The present invention provides for bringing the separate
sides of the sternum together while minimizing damage to them and
maintaining them while also allowing some flexibility and movement
by the patient without disturbing the healing process.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a first bendable hollow
sleeve adapted for insertion into the first portion of the bone.
The apparatus comprises a second bendable hollow sleeve adapted for
insertion into a second portion of the bone. The apparatus
comprises a suture which is threaded through the first and second
sleeves. The apparatus comprises a pusher for pushing the first and
second sleeves into the first and second portions of the bone,
respectively, wherein when the suture is tightened, the first and
second portions are pulled together and the first and second
sleeves bend and protect the first and second portions from the
suture.
[0005] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The method comprises the steps of inserting a
first bendable hollow sleeve into the first portion of the bone.
Then there is the step of inserting a second bendable hollow sleeve
into the second portion of the bone. Next there is the step of
threading a suture through the first and second sleeves. Then there
is the step of pulling the first portion and second portion
together with the suture and causing the first and second sleeves
to bend and protect the first and second portions from the suture
contacting the first and second portions.
[0006] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding
a, first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together
for the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a first bendable
hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into the first portion of the
bone. The first sleeve having a cap adapted to seat on a top
surface of the first portion. The apparatus comprises a second
bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into a second portion
of the bone, the second sleeve having a cap adapted to seat on a
top surface of the second portion. The apparatus comprises a suture
which is threaded through the first and second sleeves.
[0007] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a first bendable hollow
sleeve adapted for insertion into the first portion of the bone.
The apparatus comprises a second bendable hollow sleeve adapted for
insertion into a second portion of the bone. The apparatus
comprises a suture which is threaded through the first and second
sleeves. The apparatus comprises an implantor which holds the first
or second sleeve and inserts the first or second sleeve into the
first or second portion, respectively.
[0008] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a hollow tube adapted to
extend from the first and second portions. The apparatus comprises
a suture which is adapted to extend through the hollow tube when
the hollow tube extends through the first and second portion. The
apparatus comprises a first bottom cap and second bottom cap
disposed on the suture and adapted to fit in the bottom of the
first and second portion, respectively. The apparatus comprises a
first top cap and second top cap through which the suture is
inserted when the tube is removed. The first and second cap is
adapted to fit in the top of the first and second portions,
respectively.
[0009] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The method comprises the steps of inserting a
first end of a hollow tube into the top surface of the first
portion, through the first portion and out the bottom of the first
portion. Then there is the step of inserting a second end of the
hollow tube into the top surface of the second portion, through the
second portion and out the bottom of the second portion. Next there
is the step of inserting a first end of the suture having a first
bottom cap and second bottom cap on the suture into the first end
of the hollow tube until it extends past the top surface of the
first portion. Then there is the step of inserting a second end of
the suture having the first bottom cap and second bottom cap on the
suture into the second end of the hollow tube until it extends past
the top surface of the second portion. Next there is the step of
removing the tube from the suture and the first and second portion.
Then there is the step of sliding the first bottom cap along the
suture to the bottom surface of the first portion. Next there is
the step of placing the first bottom cap into the bottom surface of
the first portion. Then there is the step of sliding the second
bottom cap along the suture to the bottom surface of the second
portion. Next there is the step of placing the second bottom cap
into the bottom surface of the second portion. Then there is the
step of placing a first top cap over the first end of the suture
and into the top surface of the first portion. Next there is the
step of placing a second top cap over the second end of the suture
and into the top surface of the second portion. Then there is the
step of moving the first portion and second portion together. Next
there is the step of closing the first end and second end of the
suture together to hold the first portion and second portion
together.
[0010] The present invention pertains to a suture. The suture
comprises a wire adapted to extend through bone of a patient. The
suture comprises an insulation portion disposed about the wire and
adapted to protect the bone from the wire.
[0011] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The method comprises the steps of extending a
suture comprising a wire and an insulation portion about the wire
through the first portion and the second portion. Then there is the
step of pulling the first portion and second portion together. Next
there is the step of securing the first and second portions
together with the suture wherein the insulation of the suture
protects the first portion and second portion from the wire.
[0012] The present invention pertains to a grommet for a bone. The
apparatus comprises a top cap having a top flange that is adapted
to seat on the top surface of the bone and a threaded portion which
extends from the top flange and is adapted to be disposed in the
bone, the top flange and threaded portion having a top channel
extending through them. The apparatus comprises a bottom cap having
a bottom flange that is adapted to seat on the bottom surface of
the bone and a bottom strut which extends from the bottom portion
and engages with the threaded portion to hold the top cap to the
bottom cap and is adapted to be disposed in the bone, the bottom
flange and a strut having a bottom channel extending through them,
the top channel and bottom channel adapted for a suture to extend
through the top channel and bottom channel.
[0013] The present invention pertains to a method for securing a
suture through a bone. The method comprises the steps of placing a
bottom cap of a grommet into the bone wherein a bottom flange of
the bottom cap seats on the bottom surface of the bone and a bottom
strut of the bottom cap connecting to the bottom flange extends
into the bone. Then there is the step of placing a top cap of a
grommet into the bone wherein the top flange of the top cap seats
on the top surface of the bone and a threaded portion of the top
cap is connected to the top flange and extends into the bone and
contacts the bottom strut. Next there is the step of screwing the
threaded portion of the top cap into the bottom strut. Then there
is the step of passing a suture through the bone via a channel of
the top cap and bottom cap.
[0014] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding
together a first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone
for the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a wire having a first
end and a second end. The apparatus comprises a first needle
attached to the first end. The apparatus comprises a second needle
attached to the second end. The apparatus comprises a first bottom
cap with a flange adapted for placement into the bottom of the
first portion with the wire through it. The apparatus comprises a
second bottom cap with a flange adapted for placement into the
bottom of the second portion with the wire through it. The
apparatus comprises a first top cap with a flange adapted for
placement into the top of the first portion with the wire through
it. The apparatus comprises a second top cap with a flange adapted
for placement into the top of the second portion with the wire
through it.
[0015] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The method comprises the steps of passing a first
needle attached to a first end of a suture through the first
portion. Then there is the step of passing a second needle attached
to a second end of a suture through the second portion. Next there
is the step of guiding a first bottom cap through which the suture
is disposed along the suture until it contacts the first portion.
Then there is the step of inserting the first bottom cap into the
bottom of the first portion. Next there is the step of guiding a
second bottom cap through which the suture is disposed along the
suture until it contacts the second portion. Then there is the step
of inserting the second bottom cap into the bottom of the second
portion. Next there is the step of separating the first needle from
the first end. Then there is the step of separating the second
needle from the second end. Next there is the step of passing the
first end through a first top cap. Then there is the step of
guiding the first top cap along the wire. Next there is the step of
inserting the first top cap into the top surface of the first
portion. Then there is the step of passing the second end through a
second top cap. Next there is the step of guiding the second top
cap along the wire. Then there is the step of inserting the second
top cap into the top surface of the second portion. Next there is
the step of securing the suture in place about the first and second
portion by connecting the first and second ends.
[0016] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a strap made of a memory
metal having a central portion with a right side and a left side, a
right portion that extends angularly downward from the central
portion adjacent to the right portion, and a left portion that
extends angularly downward from the central portion adjacent to the
left side. The right and left portion is adapted to extend into and
through the first and second portion of the bone, respectively,
with the central portion disposed along the top surface of the
first and second portions. The bottom of the right and left
portions curling and hooking into the first and second portions,
respectively, to grip the first and second portions.
[0017] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The method comprises the steps of inserting a
right portion of a strap made of a memory metal into and through
the first portion of the bone and a left portion of the strap into
and through the second portion of the bone with a central portion
of the strap connecting the right portion and the left portion and
extending over and between the first and second portions. Then
there is the step of heating the right portion and left portion
until they curl and the bottom of the right and left portions hook
into the first and second portions, respectively.
[0018] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a plurality of grommets,
each grommet having a channel, a flange adapted to seat on the
surface of the bone, and a tube which extends from the flange and
is adapted to be disposed in the bone. The apparatus comprises a
suture which extends through at least two of the plurality of
grommets which oppose each other when they are disposed in the
first and second portions of the bone, respectively. The apparatus
comprises a poker which removably fits in the channel of a grommet
and has a pointed end adapted to pierce the bone and to install the
grommet into the bone. The apparatus comprises a platform against
which the tube of one of the grommets with the poker through it is
pressed to cause the end of the tube to flare out and form a bottom
flange that seats on the bottom surface of the bone.
[0019] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The apparatus comprises a plurality of grommets,
each having a channel and a top portion and a bottom portion, each
portion having a flange adapted to seat on the surface of the bone,
and a tube which extends from the flange and is adapted to be
disposed in the bone. The apparatus comprises a poker which
removably fits in the channel of the top and bottom portions and
has a pointed end adapted to pierce the bone and to install the top
portion into the bone and along which the bottom portion fits to be
guided into the bottom of the bone.
[0020] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The method comprises the steps of placing a poker
having a pointed end through a channel of a first grommet having a
top flange and a tube which extends from the top flange. Then there
is the step of inserting the poker, pointed end first, with the
first grommet on it through the top surface of the first portion
until it contacts a platform disposed adjacent the bottom surface
of the first portion and the tube of the grommet is disposed in and
extends through the first portion. Next there is the step of
pressing the poker against the platform until the bottom of the
tube flares out and forms a bottom flange. Then there is the step
of removing the poker from the first grommet leaving the first
grommet in the first portion with the top flange and bottom flange
adjacent to the top surface and bottom surface, respectively. Next
there is the step of implanting a second grommet having a channel
in the second portion. Then there is the step of extending a suture
through the channels of the first and second grommets. Next there
is the step of bringing the first and second portions together.
Then there is the step of securing the first and second portions
together with the suture.
[0021] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone to heal. The method comprises the steps of placing a poker
having a pointed end through a channel of a top portion of a first
grommet having a top flange and a tube which extends from the top
flange. Then there is the step of inserting the poker, pointed end
first, with the top portion of the first grommet on it through the
top surface of the first wherein the flange seats on the top
surface of the first portion and the tube is disposed in the first
portion. Next there is the step of placing a tube of a bottom
portion of the first grommet on the pointed end. Then there is the
step of sliding the bottom portion along the poker until a flange
of the bottom portion seats on the bottom surface of the first
portion and the tube of the bottom portion is in the bottom of the
first portion. Next there is the step of removing the poker from
the first grommet leaving the first grommet in the first portion
with the top flange and bottom flange seated on the top surface and
bottom surface, respectively. Then there is the step of implanting
a second grommet having a channel in the second portion. Next there
is the step of extending a suture through the channels of the first
and second grommets. Then there is the step of bringing the first
and second portions together. Next there is the step of securing
the first and second portions together with the suture.
[0022] The present invention pertains to a grommet for a bone. The
grommet comprises a top cap having a top flange adapted for
placement on the top surface of the bone and a top strut adapted
for placement in the bone extending from the top flange, the top
strut having slots disposed along its outer surface. The top cap
having a channel for a suture to extend through. The top strut
adapted for placement in the bone. The grommet comprises a bottom
cap having a bottom flange adapted for placement on the bottom
surface of the bone and a bottom strut adapted for placement in the
bone extending from the bottom flange, the bottom strut having a
catch extending from its inner surface to engage a slot to secure
the top cap and bottom cap together.
[0023] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion of a bone and a second portion of a bone together for
the bone when to heal. The method comprises the steps of inserting
a top strut of a top cap of a first grommet into a hole in the top
surface of the first portion until a top flange of the top cap
seats on the top surface of the bone. Then there is the step of
inserting a bottom strut of a bottom cap of the first grommet into
the hole in the bottom surface of the first portion until a catch
extending from the inner surface of the bottom strut of engages a
slot disposed along the outer surface of the top strut wherein the
top cap and bottom cap are secured together. Next there is the step
of inserting a second grommet having a channel into a second
portion of the bone. Then there is the step of threading a suture
through a channel of the first grommet and the channel of the
second grommet. Next there is the step of pulling the first portion
the second portion together. Then there is the step of securing the
suture wherein the first portion and second portion are secured
together.
[0024] The present invention pertains to a grommet for insertion in
a bone. The grommet comprises a housing having a channel for a
suture. The housing is adapted for placement in the bone. The
housing has at least one pre-crimp in its wall which expands
outward and collapses when the housing is compressed in an axial
direction.
[0025] The present invention pertains to a method for placing a
suture through a bone. The method comprises the steps of inserting
a grommet into a bone. Then there is the step of compressing the
grommet axially from its top and bottom causing a pre-crimp in the
housing wall to extend outward and collapse to form an anchor in
the bone. Next there is the step of threading a suture through a
channel in the grommet.
[0026] The present invention pertains to a grommet for implantation
into a hole in hard or soft tissue of a patient. The grommet
comprises a spring having a head flange adapted to seat on the top
portion of the tissue. The grommet comprises a tail flange adapted
to seat on the top portion of the tissue. The grommet comprises an
elongate central portion connected to the head flange and the tail
flange.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] In the accompanying drawings, the preferred embodiment of
the invention and preferred methods of practicing the invention are
illustrated in which:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a first embodiment
of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a suture in a sleeve
and a first portion of bone.
[0030] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of a suture having a
first bottom cap and a second bottom cap.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of the tube in a first
portion and a second portion of a bone.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of the embodiment of
FIG. 7 with the tube removed.
[0036] FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of a grommet which is
separated.
[0037] FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a grommet
intact.
[0038] FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of a top view and
bottom view of the grommet.
[0039] FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 13 is a schematic representation of a top cap.
[0041] FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of a strap disposed in
a first portion and second portion of bone.
[0042] FIG. 15 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 16 is a schematic representation of a platform.
[0044] FIG. 17 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 18 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 19 is a schematic representation of the top portion and
bottom portion of the embodiment of FIG. 18 apart.
[0047] FIG. 20 is a schematic representation of a side view of
another embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] FIG. 21 is a schematic representation of a top view of the
embodiment of FIG. 20.
[0049] FIG. 22 is a schematic representation of another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 23 is a schematic representation of a grommet in the
form of a spring.
[0051] FIG. 24 is a schematic representation of grommets in the
form of a spring being inserted into tissue.
[0052] FIG. 25 is a schematic representation of a grommet in the
form of a spring inserted into tissue.
[0053] FIG. 26 is a schematic representation of an alternative
embodiment of grommets in the form of a spring being inserted into
tissue.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0054] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference
numerals refer to similar or identical parts throughout the several
views, and more specifically to FIG. 1 thereof, there is shown an
apparatus for holding a first portion 10 of a bone and a second
portion 12 of a bone together for the bone to heal. The apparatus
comprises a first bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into
the first portion 10 of the bone. The apparatus comprises a second
bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into a second portion
12 of the bone. The apparatus comprises a suture 18 which is
threaded through the first and second sleeves. The apparatus
comprises a pusher 20 for pushing the first and second sleeves into
the first and second portions 10, 12 of the bone, respectively,
wherein when the suture 18 is tightened, the first and second
portions 10, 12 are pulled together and the first and second
sleeves bend and protect the first and second portions 10, 12 from
the suture 18.
[0055] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 1. The method
comprises the steps of inserting a first bendable hollow sleeve
into the first portion 10 of the bone. Then there is the step of
inserting a second bendable hollow sleeve into the second portion
12 of the bone. Next there is the step of threading a suture 18
through the first and second sleeves. Then there is the step of
pulling the first portion 10 and second portion 12 together with
the suture 18 and causing the first and second sleeves to bend and
protect the first and second portions 10, 12 from the suture 18
contacting the first and second portions 10, 12.
[0056] Preferably, after the pulling step, there is the step of
closing the first and second ends 48, 50 of the suture 18 together.
The first sleeve inserting step includes the step of placing a
pusher in the first sleeve, pushing the first sleeve through the
first portion 10 with the pusher, and removing the pusher from the
first sleeve.
[0057] Preferably, the second sleeve inserting step includes the
step of placing the pusher in the second sleeve, pushing the second
sleeve through the second portion 12 with the pusher, and removing
the pusher from the second sleeve.
[0058] Before the inserting the first sleeve step, there is
preferably the step of forming a hole 22 through the first portion
10. Preferably, before the inserting the second sleeve step, there
is the step of forming a hole 22 through the second portion 12.
After the first sleeve inserting step, there is the step of seating
a cap of the first sleeve on the top surface 26 of the first
portion 10 and after the second sleeve inserting step, there is the
step of seating a cap of the second sleeve on a top surface 26 of
the second portion 12, as shown in FIG. 4.
[0059] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 3. The apparatus
comprises a first bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into
the first portion 10 of the bone. The first sleeve having a cap
adapted to seat on a top surface 26 of the first portion 10. The
apparatus comprises a second bendable hollow sleeve adapted for
insertion into a second portion 12 of the bone. The second sleeve
has a cap adapted to seat on a top surface 26 of the second portion
12. The apparatus comprises a suture 18 which is threaded through
the first and second sleeves.
[0060] Alternatively, the inserting the first sleeve step includes
the step of inserting an implantor 30 in which the first sleeve is
disposed into the first portion 10 and wherein the inserting the
second sleeve step includes the step of inserting the implantor 30
in which the second slave is disposed into the second portion 12.
Before the first sleeve inserting step, there is preferably the
step of placing the first sleeve with the implantor 30.
[0061] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 4. The apparatus
comprises a first bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into
the first portion 10 of the bone. The apparatus comprises a second
bendable hollow sleeve adapted for insertion into a second portion
12 of the bone. The apparatus comprises a suture 18 which is
threaded through the first and second sleeves. The apparatus
comprises an implantor 30 which holds the first or second sleeve
and inserts the first or second sleeve into the first or second
portion 10, 12, respectively.
[0062] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7. The
apparatus comprises a hollow tube 38 adapted to extend from the
first and second portions 10, 12. The apparatus comprises a suture
18 which is adapted to extend through the hollow tube 38 when the
hollow tube 38 extends through the first and second portions 10,
12. The apparatus comprises a first bottom cap 40 and second bottom
cap 42 disposed on the suture 18 and adapted to fit in the bottom
of the first and second portions 10, 12, respectively. The
apparatus comprises a first top cap 44 and second top cap 46
through which the suture 18 is inserted when the tube is removed.
The first and second cap is adapted to fit in the top of the first
and second portions 10, 12, respectively. Preferably, the implantor
30 has a housing of a cylindrical shape with a groove 34 in which
the first or second sleeve fits, and with a pointed end.
[0063] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7. The
method comprises the steps of inserting a first end of a hollow
tube 38 into the top surface 26 of the first portion 10, through
the first portion 10 and out the bottom of the first portion 10.
Then there is the step of inserting a second end 50 of the hollow
tube 38 into the top surface 26 of the second portion 12, through
the second portion 12 and out the bottom of the second portion 12.
Next there is the step of inserting a first end of the suture 18
having a first bottom cap 40 and second bottom cap 42 on the suture
18 into the first end of the hollow tube 38 until it extends past
the top surface 26 of the first portion 10. Then there is the step
of inserting a second end 50 of the suture 18 having the first
bottom cap 40 and second bottom cap 42 on the suture 18 into the
second end 50 of the hollow tube 38 until it extends past the top
surface 26 of the second portion 12. Next there is the step of
removing the tube from the suture 18 and the first and second
portions 10, 12. Then there is the step of sliding the first bottom
cap along the suture 18 to the bottom surface of the first portion
10. Next there is the step of placing the first bottom cap into the
bottom surface of the first portion 10. Then there is the step of
sliding the second bottom cap 42 along the suture 18 to the bottom
surface of the second portion 12. Next there is the step of placing
the second bottom cap 42 into the bottom surface of the second
portion 12. Then there is the step of placing a first top cap 44
over the first end of the suture 18 and into the top surface 26 of
the first portion 10. Next there is the step of placing a second
top cap 46 over the second end 50 of the suture 18 and into the top
surface 26 of the second portion 12. Then there is the step of
moving the first portion 10 and second portion 12 together. Next
there is the step of closing the first end 48 and second end 50 of
the suture 18 together to hold the first portion 10 and second
portion 12 together.
[0064] The present invention pertains to a suture 18, as shown in
FIG. 2. The suture 18 comprises a wire adapted to extend through
bone of a patient. The suture 18 comprises an insulation 54 portion
disposed about the wire and adapted to protect the bone from the
wire.
[0065] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 2. The method
comprises the steps of extending a suture 18 comprising a wire and
an insulation 54 portion about the wire through the first portion
10 and the second portion 12. Then there is the step of pulling the
first portion 10 and second portion 12 together. Next there is the
step of securing the first and second portions 10, 12 together with
the suture 18 wherein the insulation 54 of the suture 18 protects
the first portion 10 and second portion 12 from the wire.
[0066] The present invention pertains to a grommet for a bone, as
shown in FIGS. 9-11 and 13. The apparatus comprises a top cap
having a top flange 60 that is adapted to seat on the top surface
26 of the bone and a threaded portion which extends from the top
flange 60 and is adapted to be disposed in the bone, the top flange
60 and threaded portion having a top channel 70 extending through
them. The apparatus comprises a bottom cap 62 having a bottom
flange that is adapted to seat on the bottom surface of the bone
and a bottom strut 66 which extends from the bottom portion and
engages with the threaded portion to hold the top cap to the bottom
cap 62 and is adapted to be disposed in the bone, the bottom flange
and a strut 66 having a bottom channel extending through them, the
top channel 70 and bottom channel adapted for a suture 18 to extend
through the top channel 70 and bottom channel.
[0067] The present invention pertains to a method for securing a
suture 18 through a bone, as shown in FIGS. 9-11 and 13. The method
comprises the steps of placing a bottom cap 62 of a grommet into
the bone wherein a bottom flange of the bottom cap 62 seats on the
bottom surface of the bone and a bottom strut 66 of the bottom cap
62 connecting to the bottom flange extends into the bone. Then
there is the step of placing a top cap of a grommet into the bone
wherein the top flange 60 of the top cap seats on the top surface
26 of the bone and a threaded portion of the top cap is connected
to the top flange 60 and extends into the bone and contacts the
bottom strut 66. Next there is the step of screwing the threaded
portion of the top cap into the bottom strut 66. Then there is the
step of passing a suture 18 through the bone via a channel of the
top cap 58 and bottom cap 62.
[0068] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding
together a first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a
bone for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 12. The apparatus
comprises a wire having a first end 48 and a second end 50. The
apparatus comprises a first needle attached to the first end. The
apparatus comprises a second needle 74 attached to the second end
50. The apparatus comprises a first bottom cap 40 with a flange
adapted for placement into the bottom of the first portion 10 with
the wire through it. The apparatus comprises a second bottom cap 42
with a flange adapted for placement into the bottom of the second
portion 12 with the wire through it. The apparatus comprises a
first top cap 44 with a flange adapted for placement into the top
of the first portion 10 with the wire through it. The apparatus
comprises a second top cap 46 with a flange adapted for placement
into the top of the second portion 12 with the wire through it.
[0069] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 12. The method
comprises the steps of passing a first needle attached to a first
end of a suture 18 through the first portion 10. Then there is the
step of passing a second needle 74 attached to a second end 50 of a
suture 18 through the second portion 12. Next there is the step of
guiding a first bottom cap 40 through which the suture 18 is
disposed along the suture 18 until it contacts the first portion
10. Then there is the step of inserting the first bottom cap 40
into the bottom of the first portion 10. Next there is the step of
guiding a second bottom cap 42 through which the suture 18 is
disposed along the suture 18 until it contacts the second portion
12. Then there is the step of inserting the second bottom cap 42
into the bottom of the second portion 12. Next there is the step of
separating the first needle from the first end. Then there is the
step of separating the second needle 74 from the second end 50.
Next there is the step of passing the first end through a first top
cap 44. Then there is the step of guiding the first top cap 44
along the wire. Next there is the step of inserting the first top
cap 44 into the top surface 26 of the first portion 10. Then there
is the step of passing the second end 50 through a second top cap
46. Next there is the step of guiding the second top cap 46 along
the wire. Then there is the step of inserting the second top cap 46
into the top surface 26 of the second portion 12. Next there is the
step of securing the suture 18 in place about the first and second
portions 10, 12 by connecting the first and second ends 48, 50.
[0070] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 14. The apparatus
comprises a strap made of a memory metal having a central portion
78 with a right side 80 and a left side 82, a right portion 84 that
extends angularly downward from the central portion 78 adjacent to
the right portion 84, and a left portion that extends angularly
downward from the central portion 78 adjacent to the left side 82.
The right and left portion is adapted to extend into and through
the first and second portions 10, 12 of the bone, respectively,
with the central portion 78 disposed along the top surface 26 of
the first and second portions 10, 12. The bottom of the right and
left portions curling and hooking into the first and second
portions 10, 12, respectively, to grip the first and second
portions 10, 12.
[0071] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 14. The method
comprises the steps of inserting a right portion 84 of a strap made
of a memory metal into and through the first portion 10 of the bone
and a left portion of the strap into and through the second portion
12 of the bone with a central portion 78 of the strap connecting
the right portion 84 and the left portion and extending over and
between the first and second portions 10, 12. Then there is the
step of heating the right portion 84 and left portion until they
curl and the bottom of the right and left portions hook into the
first and second portions 10, 12, respectively.
[0072] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17. The
apparatus comprises a plurality of grommets, each grommet having a
channel, a flange adapted to seat on the surface of the bone, and a
tube which extends from the flange and is adapted to be disposed in
the bone. The apparatus comprises a suture 18 which extends through
at least two of the plurality of grommets which oppose each other
when they are disposed in the first and second portions 10, 12 of
the bone, respectively. The apparatus comprises a poker 88 which
removably fits in the channel of a grommet and has a pointed end
adapted to pierce the bone and to install the grommet into the
bone. The apparatus comprises a platform against which the tube of
one of the grommets with the poker 88 through it is pressed to
cause the end of the tube to flare out and form a bottom flange
that seats on the bottom surface of the bone.
[0073] The present invention pertains to an apparatus for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. The
apparatus comprises a plurality of grommets, each having a channel
and a top portion 92 and a bottom portion, each portion having a
flange adapted to seat on the surface of the bone, and a tube which
extends from the flange and is adapted to be disposed in the bone.
The apparatus comprises a poker 88 which removably fits in the
channel of the top and bottom portions and has a pointed end
adapted to pierce the bone and to install the top portion 92 into
the bone and along which the bottom portion fits to be guided into
the bottom of the bone.
[0074] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17. The
method comprises the steps of placing a poker 88 having a pointed
end through a channel of a first grommet having a top flange 60 and
a tube which extends from the top flange 60. Then there is the step
of inserting the poker 88, pointed end first, with the first
grommet on it through the top surface 26 of the first portion 10
until it contacts a platform disposed adjacent the bottom surface
of the first portion 10 and the tube of the grommet is disposed in
and extends through the first portion 10. Next there is the step of
pressing the poker 88 against the platform until the bottom of the
tube flares out and forms a bottom flange. Then there is the step
of removing the poker 88 from the first grommet leaving the first
grommet in the first portion 10 with the top flange 60 and bottom
flange adjacent to the top surface 26 and bottom surface,
respectively. Next there is the step of implanting a second grommet
having a channel in the second portion 12. Then there is the step
of extending a suture 18 through the channels of the first and
second grommets. Next there is the step of bringing the first and
second portions 10, 12 together. Next there is the step of securing
the first and second portions 10, 12 together with the suture
18.
[0075] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. The
method comprises the steps of placing a poker 88 having a pointed
end through a channel of a top portion 92 of a first grommet having
a top flange 60 and a tube which extends from the top flange 60.
Then there is the step of inserting the poker 88, pointed end
first, with the top portion 92 of the first grommet on it through
the top surface 26 of the first wherein the flange seats on the top
surface 26 of the first portion 10 and the tube is disposed in the
first portion 10. Next there is the step of placing a tube of a
bottom portion of the first grommet on the pointed end. Then there
is the step of sliding the bottom portion along the poker 88 until
a flange of the bottom portion seats on the bottom surface of the
first portion 10 and the tube of the bottom portion is in the
bottom of the first portion 10. Next there is the step of removing
the poker 88 from the first grommet leaving the first grommet in
the first portion 10 with the top flange 60 and bottom flange
seated on the top surface 26 and bottom surface, respectively. Then
there is the step of implanting a second grommet having a channel
in the second portion 12. Next there is the step of extending a
suture 18 through the channels of the first and second grommets.
Next there is the step of bringing the first and second portions
10, 12 together. Then there is the step of securing the first and
second portions 10, 12 together with the suture 18.
[0076] In the operation of the invention, and in regard to a first
embodiment thereof, a hole 22 is formed in the first portion 10 of
the bone with a drill, and then a hole 22 is formed in a second
portion 12 of the bone with the drill, as shown in FIG. 1. A pusher
20 having a shaft with a flange head and an obelisk base, has the
base inserted into a first bendable hollow sleeve. The first
bendable hollow sleeve is then positioned in the top of the hole 22
in the first portion 10 and force is applied to the flange head,
causing the base to move downward into the first hollow sleeve 14
and to move the first hollow sleeve 14 through the first hole 22 as
the base moves through the first hollow sleeve 14. Force is applied
to the flange head until the first hollow sleeve 14 extends through
the first portion 10 of the bone from the top surface 26 to the
bottom surface 28 of the first portion 10.
[0077] The head is then grabbed and pulled up from the first
portion 10 of the bone causing the shaft and base to be pulled back
out of the first portion 10 of the first hollow sleeve 14. The
friction from the first portion 10 of the first hollow sleeve 14
which is now in the first portion 10, is greater than the fraction
of the first hollow sleeve 14 of the base as it moves through the
hollow sleeve, resulting in the first hollow sleeve 14 remaining in
the first portion 10 while the pusher 20 comes out of the first
hollow sleeve 14. This process is repeated with a second hollow
sleeve 16 in the second portion 12 of the bone to position the
second hollow sleeve 16 in the second portion 12 of the bone
adjacent to and opposing the first sleeve 14.
[0078] A suture 18 is threaded into and through the first hollow
sleeve 14, from the bottom of the first hollow sleeve 14 across to
the bottom of the second hollow sleeve 16 in the second portion 12
and into and through the second hollow sleeve 16 until it extends
out of the second hollow sleeve 16. The end of the suture 18
extending from the second hollow sleeve 16 is then brought together
with the end of the suture 18 extending from the first hollow
sleeve 14 and pulled tight, causing the first portion 10 and second
portion 12 of the bone to come together. The ends of the suture 18
are then secured together with pliers which is used to twirl the
ends around each other and then bend the connected ends downward so
they did not extend upwards and interfere with the closing of the
skin over the bone in the final steps of the procedure.
[0079] Six to eight sets of bendable sleeves are subsequently
inserted into the first and second portions 10, 12 of the bone,
with a suture 18 extending through each of them and secured
together to maintain the length of the sternum together to
facilitate healing. Any tissue and skin over the sternum is closed
and the operation is completed.
[0080] The hollow sleeves serve as insulation 54 to protect the
first portion 10 and second portion 12 from tension on the suture
18 that may be created when the patient moves and the healing
sternum incurs forces which would cause the first portion 10 and
second portion 12 to slide or separate from each other, as shown in
FIG. 2. The sleeves absorb and spread out the forces from the
sutures 18, which act as the strong structural elements that
maintain the first portion 10 and second portion 12 together. Since
the sleeves are softer and have a larger in outside diameter than
the suture 18, they will not cut into or tear the first portion 10
and second portion 12, especially around the top surface 26 and
bottom surface 28 which they extend through and bend about to
extend to the opposing portion under any forces that they
experience.
[0081] In a variation of the aforesaid described embodiment, each
bendable hollow sleeve can have a cap on its top which seats on the
top surface 26 of the portion of the bone in which the sleeve is
inserted, as shown in FIG. 3. In this alternative embodiment, the
cap 24 serves to protect the top surface 26 of the bone portion and
the bottom of the sleeve bends, as described above to protect the
bottom surface 28 of the bone portion. With this embodiment, the
bendable hollow sleeve can be designed to be stiff enough so that
pressure applied to the cap 24 will force the sleeve into the hole
22, and the sleeve will not bend under the force so that it will
penetrate into the hole 22.
[0082] In yet another variation of this embodiment, instead of the
pusher 20, an implantor 30 is used, as shown in FIG. 4. The
implantor 30 has a housing 32 of a cylindrical shape with a groove
34 in which the sleeve fits. The housing 32 also has a pointed end
36 to facilitate insertion through a hole 22 drilled or punched
into the bone, or to pierce through the bone if a hole 22 is not
already present. When the implantor 30 is used to insert the sleeve
into a bone portion, the sleeve is disposed in the groove 34 of the
implantor 30 with the suture 18 extending through the sleeve
already to provide it stiffness and structural support to aid in
maintaining the sleeve with the implantor 30 as it moves through
the bone portion. The implantor 30 is pulled back out of the bone
portion after the suture 18 is inserted through the sleeve so the
bottom of the suture 18 or sleeve can be grabbed and held as the
implantor 30 is removed so the implantor 30 does not pull the
sleeve upwards and out, or displace the sleeve from the bone
portion. Alternatively, the suture 18 can be omitted from the
sleeve during the insertion step, and after the sleeve is present
in the bone portion, the suture 18 can be inserted, as is described
above through the sleeve.
[0083] In another embodiment, after a hole 22 is punched or drilled
through the first portion 10 and a hole 22 is drilled or punched
through the second portion 12 of the bone, a first end 48 of a
hollow tube 38 is inserted into the hole 22 in the top surface 26
of the first portion 10, and pushed through the hole 22 in the
first portion 10 and out the bottom of the first portion 10 by a
way of the hole 22, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8. The second end
50 of the hollow tube 38 is then inserted into the hole 22 in the
top surface 26 of the second portion 12 of the bone. The second end
50 of the hollow tube 38 is pushed through the hole 22 in the
second portion 12 and out the bottom of the second portion 12
through the hole 22.
[0084] A first end 48 of the suture 18 having a first hollow bottom
cap and a second hollow bottom cap threaded on the suture 18 is
inserted into the first end 48 of the hollow tube 38 until it
extends past the surface of the first portion 10. Similarly, the
second end 50 of the suture 18 having the first bottom cap 40 and
second bottom cap 42 threaded on it is inserted into the second end
50 of the hollow tube 38 until it extends past the top surface 26
of the second portion 12. The hollow tube 38 is then removed from
the suture 18 and the first and second portions 10, 12.
[0085] The first bottom cap 40 is then slid along the suture 18 to
the bottom surface 28 of the first portion 10 until it reaches the
hole 22 in the first portion 10. The first bottom cap 40 is then
placed into the bottle surface of the first portion 10 by pushing
the cap 24 into the hole 22 so it seats on the bottom surface 28
and extends into the hole 22 of the first portion 10. Similarly,
the second bottom cap 42 is slid along the suture 18 to the bottom
surface 28 of the second portion 12. The second top cap 46 is then
placed into the hole 22 in the bottom surface 28 of the second
portion 12 so it seats in the hole 22 and extends into the hole 22
of the second portion 12.
[0086] A first top cap 44 is threaded over the first end 48 of the
suture 18 and moved along the suture 18 until it comes to the hole
22 in the top surface 26 of the first portion 10. The first top cap
44 is then placed into the hole 22 in the top surface 26 of the
first portion 10 by pushing the first top cap 44 into the hole 22
so it seats on the top surface 26 and extends into the hole 22.
Similarly, a second top cap 46 is threaded over the second end 50
of the suture 18 and moved along the suture 18 until it reaches the
hole 22 in the top surface 26 of the second portion 12. The second
top cap 46 is then placed into the hole 22 in the top surface 26 of
the second portion 12 by being pushed into the hole 22 so it seats
on the top surface 26 and extends into the hole 22. The first and
second ends 48, 50 of the suture 18 are then drawn together,
causing the first and second portions 10, 12 to move together. The
first end 48 and second end 50 of the suture 18 are secured
together with pliers by twisting the first and second ends 48, 50
of the suture 18 together to hold the first portion 10 second
portion 12 together, as described above.
[0087] In a variation of this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9-11
and 13, the first and second top caps 44, 46 can be male threaded
caps and the first and second bottom caps 40, 42 can be female caps
over which the male threaded caps are threaded once they are in
place so that the first and second top caps 44, 46 and the first
and second bottom caps 40, 42, respectively, are joined together
for added stability. This process is repeated for placing the
remaining pairs of caps in the first and second portions 10, 12 of
the bone. If a hemostat is used to hold the first and second
portions 10, 12 of the sternum apart, then the hemostat is removed
before the first and second ends 48, 50 of each suture 18 are
secured together and the first and second portions 10, 12 of the
sternum are closed together.
[0088] In another embodiment, a suture 18 comprises a suture 18
adapted to extend through a bone of a patient, as shown in FIG. 2.
The suture 18 also comprises an insulation 54 portion disposed
about the suture 18 and adapted to protect the bone from the suture
18. The suture 18 having the insulation 54 portion disposed about
the suture 18 is threaded through a hole 22 drilled or punched into
the first portion 10. The suture 18 that extends out the bottom of
the hole 22 in the first portion 10 is then drawn over to a hole 22
in the bottom surface 28 of the second portion 12 of the bone. The
suture 18 is threaded through the hole 22 until it extends about
the hole 22 in the top surface 26 of the second portion 12. The
other end of the suture 18 which extends from the hole 22 in the
first portion 10 is then pulled together with the end of the suture
18 which extends out the second portion 12 and secured together, as
explained above. Additional sutures 18 are placed in the first and
second portions 10, 12 of the bone and secured together in this
manner, as needed to secure the first and second portions 10, 12 of
the bone together.
[0089] In another embodiment, grommets 56 are used to secure a
suture 18 through a bone. The grommet 56 comprises a top cap 58 and
a bottom cap 62. The top cap 58 has a top flange 60 that is adapted
to seat on the top surface 26 of the bone and a threaded portion
which extends from the top flange 60 and is adapted to be disposed
in the bone. The top flange 60 and threaded portion has a top
channel 70 extending through them. The bottom cap 62 has a bottom
flange 64 that is adapted to seat on the bottom surface 28 of the
bone and a bottom strut 66 which extends from the bottom portion 94
and engages with the threaded portion to hold the top cap 58 into
the bottom cap 62 and is adapted to be disposed in the bone. The
bottom flange 64 and the strut 66 have a bottom channel 68
extending through them. The top channel 70 and bottom channel 68
are adapted for a suture 18 to extend through the top channel 70
and bottom channel 68.
[0090] A hole 22 is drilled or punched into the bone and the bottom
of the grommet 56 is inserted into the hole 22 in the bottom
surface 28 of the bone so the bottom flange 64 of the bottom cap 62
seats on the bottom surface 28 of the bone and the bottom strut 66
of the bottom cap 62 connecting to the bottom flange 64 extends
into the bone. The top cap 58 of the grommet 56 is then placed into
the hole 22 in the top surface 26 of the bone so the top flange 60
of the top cap 58 seats on the top surface 26 of the bone and a
threaded portion of the top cap 58 connected to the top flange 60
and extends into the bone and contacts the bottom strut 66. The top
cap 58 is then rotated, causing the threaded portion of the top cap
58 to screw onto the bottom strut 66. The suture 18 is then
inserted through the bone via a channel that extends through the
top cap 58 and bottom cap 62.
[0091] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, after holes 22
are punched or drilled into the first portion 10 of the bone and
the second portion 12 of the bone, a suture 18 is brought forth to
connect the first portion 10 and second portion 12 together. The
suture 18 has a first end 48 and a second end 50 with a first
needle 72 attached to the first end 48 and a second needle 74
attached to the second end 50. The needles are attached to their
respective ends and swedged on them.
[0092] The first needle 72 is inserted through a first bottom cap
40 with a flange and the second needle 74 is threaded through a
second bottom cap 42 with a flange. The first needle 72 is threaded
through the hole 22 in the bottom surface 28 of the first portion
10 and out the hole 22 in the top surface 26 of the first portion
10. The first bottom cap 40 is then guided along the suture 18
until it contacts the hole 22 in the bottom surface 28 of the first
portion 10. The first bottom cap 40 is then inserted into the
bottom hole 22 of the first portion 10 so it seats on the bottom
surface 28 of the first portion 10 with its flange. Similarly, the
second needle 74 is threaded through the hole 22 in the second
portion 12. The second bottom cap 42 is guided along the suture 18
and inserted into the hole 22 in the bottom of the second portion
12 so the flange seats on the bottom surface 28 of the second
portion 12.
[0093] The first needle 72 and second needle 74 are then drawn up,
causing the suture 18 to tighten between the first hole 22 and the
second hole 22. The first needle 72 and second needle 74 are
wiggled off of the first end 48 and second end 50, respectively, so
they break off the first end 48 and second end 50. A first top cap
44 with a flange is then threaded over the first end 48 of the
suture 18 and guided to the hole 22 in the top surface 26 of the
first portion 10. The first top cap 44 is then inserted into the
hole 22 so the flange of the first portion 10 seats on to the top
surface 26 of the first portion 10. Similarly, the second top cap
46 is threaded along the second end 50 of the suture 18 and guided
along the suture 18 to the hole 22 in the top surface 26 of the
second portion 12. The second top cap 46 is then inserted into a
hole 22 on the top surface 26 of the second portion 12 so the
flange of the top cap 58 seats on the top surface 26 of the second
portion 12. The first end 48 and second end 50 of the suture 18 are
them drawn together and secured so the first portion 10 and second
portion 12 are brought together and also held in place, as
described above. This process is repeated with as many sets of
grommets 56 as necessary to securely hold the first portion 10 and
second portion 12 together.
[0094] If desired, all needle-suture sets can be positioned through
opposing holes of the first portion 10 and second portion 112 and
only tightened after all of the sets are in place to facilitate the
placement of all the sutures 18 without the first portion 10 and
second portion 12 being pulled together, making it more difficult
for subsequent placement of the grommets 56 and sutures 18 in holes
22 in the first portion 10 and second portion 12.
[0095] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, a strap 76 is
used for holding the first portion 10 of the bone and the second
portion 12 of the bone together for the bone to heal. The strap 76
is made of a memory metal, such as nitinol. The strap 76 has a
central portion 78 with a right side 80 and a left side 82. The
strap 76 has a right portion 84 that extends angularly downward
from the central portion 78 adjacent to the right portion 84, and a
left portion 86 that extends angularly downward from the central
portion 78 adjacent to the left side 82. The right and left portion
84, 86 is adapted to extend into and through the first and second
portions 10, 12 of the bone, respectively, with the central portion
78 disposed along the top surface 26 of the first and second
portions 10,12. The bottom of the right and left portions 84, 86
curl and hook into the first and second portions 10, 12,
respectively, to grip the first and second portions 10, 12 when
they are heated.
[0096] The strap 76 is inserted into place between the first
portion 10 and second portion 12 by inserting the right portion 84
of the strap 76 into and through the first portion 10 of the bone
and the left portion 86 of the strap 76 into and through the second
portion 12 of the bone with a central portion 78 of the strap 76
connecting the right portion 84 and the left portion 86 and
extending over and between the first and second portion 10, 12.
With the right portion 84 and left portion 86 of the strap 76
disposed in the first portion 10 and second portion 12,
respectively, the heat from the first portion 10 and second portion
12 causes the memory metal which makes up the right portion 84 and
the left portion 86 to curl and hook into the bottom of the first
and second portion 12, respectively. By curling and hooking into
the first and second portions 10, 12, the strap 76 seats itself
into the bone and holds the first portion 10 and second portion 12
together.
[0097] In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17, a
poker 88 having a pointed end 36 is placed through a channel of a
first grommet 56 having a top flange 60 and a tube which extends
from the top flange 60. The poker 88, pointed end 36 first, with
the first grommet 56, is inserted through the top surface 26 of the
first portion 10 until it contacts a platform 90 disposed adjacent
to the bottom surface 28 of the first portion 10 and the tube of
the grommet 56 is disposed in and extends through the first portion
10. The poker 88 is pressed against the platform 90 until the
bottom of the tube flares out and forms a bottom flange 64. The
poker 88 is removed from the first grommet 56 which leaves the
first grommet 56 in the first portion 10 due to the bottom flange
64 preventing the first grommet 56 from pulling out with the poker
88. The top flange 60 of the grommet 56 is seated on the top
surface 26 and the bottom flange 64 is seated on the bottom surface
28.
[0098] The second grommet 56 is similarly inserted in the second
portion 12 opposing the first grommet 56. A suture 18 is threaded
through the channels of the first and second grommets. The first
and second ends 48, 50 of the suture 18 are pulled together to
bring the first portion 10 and second portion 12 together. The
first and second ends 48, 50 of the suture 18 are then secured
together to maintain the first and second portions 10, 12 together,
as described above.
[0099] In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a poker
88 having a pointed end 36 is placed through a channel of a top
portion 92 of a first grommet 56 having a top flange 60 in a tube
which extends from the top flange 60. The poker 88, pointed end 36
first, with the top portion 92 of the first grommet 56 on it, is
inserted through the top surface 26 of the first portion 10 so the
flange seats on the top surface 26 of the first portion 10 and the
tube is disposed in the first portion 10. A tube of a bottom
portion 94 of the first grommet 56 is placed on the pointed end 36
of the poker 88. The bottom portion 94 is slid along the poker 88
until a flange of the bottom portion 94 seats on the bottom surface
28 of the first portion 10 and the tube of the bottom portion 94 is
in the bottom of the first portion 10. The poker 88 is removed from
the first grommet 56 leaving the first grommet 56 in the first
portion 10 with the top flange 60 and bottom flange 64 seated on
the top surface 26 and bottom surface 28, respectively.
[0100] A second grommet 56 is then implanted in the second portion
12 in a similar manner as the first grommet 56 is inserted in the
first portion 10. A suture 18 is then threaded through the channels
of the first and second grommet 56. The ends of the suture 18 are
then pulled together to bring the first and second portions 10, 12
together. The first and second ends 48, 50 of the suture 18 are
then secured together to secure the first and second portions 10,
12 together, as described above.
[0101] The present invention pertains to a grommet 56 for a bone,
as shown in FIG. 20 and 21. The grommet 56 comprises a top cap 58
having a top flange 60 adapted for placement on the top surface of
the bone and a top strut adapted for placement in the bone
extending from the top flange 60, the top strut having slots 97
disposed along its outer surface. The top cap 58 has a channel for
a suture 18 to extend through. The top strut 93 is adapted for
placement in the bone. The grommet 56 comprises a bottom cap 62
having a bottom flange 64 adapted for placement on the bottom
surface of the bone and a bottom strut 95 adapted for placement in
the bone extending from the bottom flange 64. The bottom strut 95
has a catch 98 extending from its inner surface to engage a slot 97
to secure the top cap 58 and bottom cap 62 together.
[0102] The present invention pertains to a method for holding a
first portion 10 of a bone and a second portion 12 of a bone
together for the bone to heal, as shown in FIG. 20 and 21. The
method comprises the steps of inserting a top strut 93 of a top cap
58 of a first grommet 56 into a hole in the top surface of the
first portion 10 until a top flange 60 of the top cap 58 seats on
the top surface of the bone. Then there is the step of inserting a
bottom strut 95 of a bottom cap 62 of the first grommet 56 into the
hole in the bottom surface of the first portion 10 until a catch 98
extending from the inner surface of the bottom strut of engages a
slot 97 disposed along the outer surface of the top strut wherein
the top cap 58 and bottom cap 62 are secured together. Next there
is the step of inserting a second grommet 56 having a channel into
a second portion 12 of the bone. Then there is the step of
threading a suture 18 through a channel of the first grommet 56 and
the channel of the second grommet 56. Next there is the step of
pulling the first portion 10 and the second portion 12 together.
Then there is the step of securing the suture 18 wherein the first
portion 10 and second portion 12 are secured together.
[0103] The present invention pertains to a grommet 56 for insertion
in a bone, as shown in FIG. 22. The grommet 56 comprises a housing
32 having a channel for a suture 18. The housing 32 is adapted for
placement in the bone. The housing 32 has at least one pre-crimp 99
in its wall which expands outward and collapses to form an anchor
100 in the bone when the housing 32 is compressed in an axial
direction.
[0104] The present invention pertains to a method for placing a
suture 18 through a bone, as shown in FIG. 22. The method comprises
the steps of inserting a grommet 56 into a bone. Then there is the
step of compressing the grommet 56 axially from its top and bottom
causing a pre-crimp 99 in the housing wall to extend outward and
collapse to form an anchor 100 in the bone. Next there is the step
of threading a suture 18 through a channel in the grommet 56.
[0105] The present invention pertains to a grommet for implantation
into a hole in hard or soft tissue of a patient. The grommet
comprises a spring having a head flange adapted to seat on the top
portion of the tissue. The grommet comprises a tail flange adapted
to seat on the top portion of the tissue. The grommet comprises an
elongate central portion connected to the head flange and the tail
flange. Preferably, the tail flange has a tail end which bends
inwards.
[0106] In another embodiment, a grommet 100 is formed from a wire
wound into a spiral, much in the form of a spring 101. As shown in
FIGS. 23, 24 and 25, the spring 101 is wound to form a head flange
104 having a diameter greater than the diameter of the hole 22 in
the bone in which it is to be inserted. The spring 101 is wound to
form a tale flange 106 having a diameter greater than the diameter
of the hole 22 in the bone in which it is to be inserted. The tail
end 110 of the spring 101 at the tail flange 106 of the grommet 100
bends slightly inwards from its circumference. The spring 101 has a
channel 112 through which a wire suture 18 extends when the grommet
100 is in place. There is also an elongated central portion 114
connected between the head flange 104 and the tail flange 106 which
has an outer diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the hole
22 in the bone in which it is to be inserted.
[0107] A pushing rod 108 has a diameter smaller than the inner
diameter of the channel 112 of the grommet 100 and has a slot 116
in its pushing end 118. To place the grommet 100 into the hole 22
in the bone, the slot 116 of the pushing rod 108 is inserted into
the channel 112 of the grommet 100 and moved through the channel
112 of the grommet 100 until the slot 116 fits over the tail end
110 of the spring 101 which bends slightly inwards. Once the slot
116 grasps the end of the spring 101, the pushing rod 108 is
twisted while the head flange 104 of the grommet 100 is held,
causing the tail flange 106 and the central portion 114 to narrow
in diameter as the length of the grommet 100 extends under the
twisting action. With the outer diameter of the tail flange 106 and
the central portion 114 now smaller than the inner diameter of the
hole 22 in the bone, the tail flange 106 and central portion 114 is
inserted with the pushing rod 108 into the hole 22 in the bone
until the tail flange 106 extends beyond the bottom of the hole 22
in the bone.
[0108] The pushing rod 108 is then backed out of the grommet 100
and the hole 22, resulting in the release of tension on the tail
flange 106 portion and the central portion 114. When the tail
flange 106 and the central portion 114 relaxes from the release of
tension, the tail flange 106 expands to its normal diameter, as
does the central portion 114. The grommet 100, now in place in the
bone, cannot be removed from the bone without considerable damage
to the bone since the tail flange 106 and in the head flange 104
extend beyond the diameter of the hole 22, and the central portion
114 forms a friction fit with the inner diameter of the hole 22.
The head flange 104 and the tail flange 106 also serve to protect
the top and bottom surface of the bone, respectively, from any
abrasion or tear due to forces from a wire suture 18 pressing
against the bone after the wire suture 18 has been threaded through
the grommet 100 and the bone. As described above, additional
grommets 100 are inserted into the first and second portions of
bone of the patient, and the first and second portions brought
together and secured. In an alternative embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 26, the head flange 104 instead has a solid flange 120.
Standard manufacturing techniques are used to produce the grommet
100.
[0109] Although the invention has been described in detail in the
foregoing embodiments for the purpose of illustration, it is to be
understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that
variations can be made therein by those skilled in the art without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention except as it
may be described by the following claims.
* * * * *