Implants for Altering Wear Patterns of Articular Surfaces

Abstract

Methods and devices for correcting wear pattern defects in joints. The methods and devices described herein allow for the restoration of correcting abnormal biomechanical loading conditions in a joint brought on by wear pattern defects, and also can, in embodiments, permit correction of proper kinematic movement.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of making an implant for repairing a joint of a patient, comprising:
 a. obtaining electronic data regarding motion of the joint of the patient, wherein the data includes information regarding existing geometry or kinematics of the joint of the patient, or alternatively, wherein the data includes information regarding geometry or kinematics of a class of patients;   b. using the electronic data to determine, virtually, a wear pattern of an implant model or implant component models selected or designed to repair the joint of the patient;   c. modifying the implant model or implant component models to achieve a revised wear pattern to reduce wear; and   d. manufacturing a final implant or final implant components based on the modified implant model or implant component models.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the joint of the patient is a hip joint, a knee joint, an ankle joint, an elbow joint, a shoulder joint, or a spinal joint of the patient. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the revised wear pattern is configured to improve motion of the joint of the patient.