Paragraph Number

266

After the cut has been made to split the calcaneus 1806 into the first bone segment 1840 and the second bone segment 1842, the surgeon may angle the second bone segment 1842 relative to the first bone segment 1840 in the predetermined (previously modeled) relative orientation. This reorientation between the first bone segment 1840 and the second bone segment 1842 may leave a wedge-shaped gap between the first bone segment 1840 and the second bone segment 1842. In order to maintain the desired relative orientation, an implant 1860 with a wedge shape may be inserted into the gap and secured to the first bone segment 1840 and the second bone segment 1842. The implant 1860 may be fabricated specifically for the patient, since the precise angulation and position of the realignment may also be patient specific. As shown, the implant 1860 may have exterior surfaces that are contoured to match the contours of the adjoining portions of the first bone segment 1840 and the second bone segment 1842. Thus, the implant 1860 may provide secure fixation, while not protruding beyond the adjoining surfaces of the first bone segment 1840 and the second bone segment 1842. Thus, the implant 1860 may be devoid of proud edges or other protrusions that could otherwise interfere with motion between the calcaneus 1806 and the talus 1810, or with surrounding soft tissues, thus interfering with the patient’s post-operative gait. "Soft tissue" refers to tissue of a patient (i.e., human or animal). Examples of soft tissue include but are not limited to skin, ligament, tendon, fascia, fat muscle, fibrous tissue, blood vessels, lymph vessels, brain tissue, and/or nerves.

Added by DJM Jan 2024