THREAD INTRODUCTION FEATURES FOR AN ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANT

摘要

An orthopedic implant including a U-shaped head having a base and first and second legs extending therefrom and spaced apart from one another to define a U-shaped channel. The first and second legs each include a distal end and together define a distal opening in communication with the U-shaped channel. The first and second legs also together define an internal helical thread extending from the distal end toward the base and configured for threading engagement with a lock member. The first leg defines a starter thread turn proximately adjacent the distal end and having a thread profile substantially similar to a thread profile of primary thread turns proximal the starter thread turn. The second leg defines a non-threaded feature proximately adjacent the distal end that removes and is devoid of the starter thread turn. In one embodiment, the non-threaded feature comprises a substantially smooth and non-threaded surface extending proximally from the distal end of the second leg toward the base. In specific embodiments, the non-threaded feature comprises a countersink or a counterbore.