Extra-articular implantable mechanical energy absorbing systems

Abstract

A system and method for sharing and absorbing energy between body parts. In one particular aspect, the system facilitates absorbing energy between members forming a joint such as between articulating bones.

1 .- 44 . (canceled) 
     
     
         45 . A system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint, the members collectively defining a path of motion between extension and flexion, comprising:
 a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint;   a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint; and   an energy absorption assembly attached to the first attachment structure and the second attachment structure;   wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to off-load the joint and to one or more improve alignment, stability or support of the joint or enhanced ligament function of the joint.   
     
     
         46 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to provide off-loading only during extension. 
     
     
         47 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to provide off-loading only during flexion. 
     
     
         48 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to be implanted adjunctive to medical treatments of the joint. 
     
     
         49 . The system of  claim 48 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to enable the joint to go through less restrictive rehabilitation regimes. 
     
     
         50 . The system of  claim 48 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to protect native or non-native cartilage. 
     
     
         51 . The system of  claim 50 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to protect hyaline cartilage. 
     
     
         52 . The system of  claim 50 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is configured to protect fibrocartilage or the attachment thereof. 
     
     
         53 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein when the first and second members of the joint are in an extension configuration, off-loading and energy manipulation is at its greatest. 
     
     
         54 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the system transfers energy that cartilage would normally experience during gait to bone outside the joint. 
     
     
         55 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the joint is a knee joint affected with osteoarthritis and variable amounts of energy absorption occurs while the members defining the joint follow the path of motion. 
     
     
         56 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the energy absorption assembly complements energy absorbing function of cartilage. 
     
     
         57 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the energy absorption assembly augments energy absorbing function of cartilage. 
     
     
         58 . The system of  claim 45 , wherein the energy absorption assembly is a cartilage mimicking assembly.