| 摘要 |
A joint prosthesis comprises two relatively inextensible primary components that are spaced apart from one another. Disposed between and spaced from each of the primary components is a pivot member that is also fabricated of relatively inextensible material. When viewed in section taken normal to its central longitudinal axis, the pivot member has two discrete arcuate surfaces that are spaced apart from one another about the circumference of the pivot member. One of the primary components of the prosthesis is resiliently secured to one of the arcuate surfaces of the pivot member, while the other primary component of the prosthesis is resiliently secured to the other arcuate surface of the pivot member. The resilient connections between the pivot member and the primary components permit relative rotation between the pivot member and each of the primary components. As a result, the two primary components can rotate toward and away from each other about an axis that is disposed at least adjacent to and at least approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pivot member. The resilient connections between the arcuate surfaces of the pivot member and the primary components of the prosthesis are preferably accomplished through the use of bodies of elastomeric material. Adjacent the spaced apart arcuate surfaces of the pivot member, the bodies of elastomer have greater circumferential dimensions that the arcuate surfaces so as to reduce stresses occurring at the elastomer-to-pivot member interfaces.
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