STERNUM REPLACEMENT IMPLANT

Abstract

The invention relates to a sternum replacement implant.

Claims

1. Sternum replacement implant comprising an alumina ceramic.

2. Implant according to claim 1, wherein the alumina ceramic has a porosity by volume of 45 to 75% and a pore size of 200 to 600 m.

3. Implant according to claim 1, wherein the alumina ceramic is obtained by impregnation of a foam, pre-sintering at a temperature greater than 1200 C., superimpregnation with a slip, and sintering at a temperature greater than 1600 C.

4. Implant according to claim 1, in the form of a curved ovoid sheet.

5. Implant according to claim 1, comprising lateral holes (2s, 2b, 2c) for suturing to the costal cartilages.

Description

[0023] FIG. 1 is a top view of the implant (1) according to the invention. The implant has lateral holes (2a, 2b, 2c), for example between 0.8 and 4 mm in diameter. Machining, particularly ultrasonic machining, may be performed to produce the holes. The implant equipped with holes may therefore subsequently be sutured to the costal cartilages. The implant thereby offers surgeons additional practicality by means of the holes produced which enables simplified securing of the implant.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a further view of the implant (2) according to the invention. The implant is in the form of a curved ovoid sheet, which has an anatomical geometry. This makes it possible to fill the excised area while respecting the physiology of the rib cage.

[0025] After having performed anatomical referencing, the surgeon makes a skin incision comprising the path and the point of entry of the biopsy, cuts the ribs and makes an excision followed by a one-piece ablation of the tumour. The surgeon fits the implant, performs the suturing required and covers the implant with a flap of the pectoralis major. The implant in position is shown in FIG. 3.

[0026] The ceramic sternum according to the invention offers full biocompatibility enabling long-term bone integration. The non-use of metal pieces makes it possible to perform X-rays without artefacts and thereby benefit from quality imaging so as to enhance clinical follow-up. The use of the implant according to the invention also makes it possible to save operating time, which reduces the risk of infection, the studies indicating that prolonging an operation by one hour multiplies the risk of infection by two.

[0027] The overall impact for the patient is also lessened. Indeed, the natural integration of the implant according to the invention limits the psychological effects of such an operation. The osteointegration facilitates the acceptance of the implant within the body and gives a plasticity to the chest after operation.

[0028] The ceramic sternum also makes it possible to ensure reproducibility of the operation; according to one embodiment, the sternum according to the invention is available in the form of a range of implants, with for example 3 implant sizes.