Primary axis prosthetic joint design

摘要

An artificial joint for implantation into a subject's body is provided which includes an outer race coupled with fixation means to anchor the outer race within an existing joint socket. An inner race member seats within the outer race and a first bearing member is juxtaposed therebetween. The first bearing member has its normal axis closely coincident with a center of rotation that is normal to an axis of most frequent movement of the joint. The bearing component is installed in an alignment that supports loads on a primary axis. A second bearing member may be provided between the inner and outer race members which constrains forces generated during use of the joint and centers forces onto the first bearing member.