WO2013088385A1

WO2013088385A1 - Endosseous implant and method of implantation thereof within all bone types

Info

Publication number: WO2013088385A1
Application number: PCT/IB2012/057268
Authority: WO
Inventors: Moshe Betzalel; Kobi SHAKARCHI; Gadi SCHNEIDER
Original assignee: Alpha-Bio Tec Ltd.
Priority date: 2011-12-14
Filing date: 2012-12-13
Publication date: 2013-06-20

Abstract

The present invention relates to an endosseous implant capable of secure implantation in a variety of bone tissues and/or bone densities, said implant having a functional threading portion including a distal portion (104) and a proximal portion (106) having different diameters, wherein the difference in the diameter between said distal and proximal portions define a step (102); wherein said distal portion includes distal threading (114) defining a distal major diameter (114J) and distal minor diameter (114I) and said proximal portion (106) includes proximal threading (116) defining a proximal major diameter (116J) and proximal minor diameter (116I). The present invention further relates to a method for implantation of said implant.

Description

ENDOSSEOUS IMPLANT AND METHOD OF IMPLANTATION THEREOF WITHIN ALL BONE TYPES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an endosseous implant and a method for implantation thereof within all bone types, and in particular, to such an implant capable of secure implantation in a variety of bone tissue and/or bone densities. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Bone is typically formed from osseous tissue that may be described according to hardness and/or density, where the spectrum includes cortical bone at the hard and dense end of the scale, and various degrees of trabecular bone, that may range from soft/spongy to hard/dense.

Generally bones comprise both cortical and trabecular tissue. For example, the jaw bone may be externally covered with cortical bone while the internal structures are formed from varying degrees of trabecular bone, including bone from the very hard to soft.

Endosseous implants are designed to be implanted directly into the bone during a surgical procedure, for example dental implants. During implantation, an implantation site is exposed to allow the physician to evaluate the bone type and density available at the implantation site, usually by drilling. In addition the physician the bone type is evaluated in various other techniques such as x-ray or CT scan and/or the like medical imaging.

The implant is threaded into the implantation site by driving the implant into the bone, within a canal formed by drilling into the implantation site. The implant is generally provided with a functional threading portion on its external surface to allow it to be screwed into and securely fit within the bone at the implantation site about the threading.

Implants - for example dental implants examples - of which are shown in FIG. 1 A, may be provided in various forms for example a one piece implant, trans- gingival implant, multi piece implant, bone level implants with internal or external connections. However such implants may include a, functional threading portion of implants are provided along the external surface of the implant body and generally provided in a screw like configuration comprising a conical or cylindrical profile provided with threading about its length.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One of the drawbacks of the prior art implants, examples of which are depicted in FIG. 1 A-B, is that they provided a functional threading portion with threading type for interacting with one bone tissue type. Many implants are designed for use with either hard/dense bone or soft/spongy bone, or bone having intermediate density and/or hardness. The prior art does not sufficiently provide a single implant that may be implanted within a variety of different bone tissue types of varying hardness and/or densities, within the implant's functional threading portion. Prior art implants do not provide for an implant functional threading portion having two discrete segments having significantly different diameters segments within each segment, and/or portions that define a step along the functional threading portion.

There is an unmet need for, and it would be highly useful to have, a endosseous implant (bone implant) and method of implantation thereof, that provides a single implant capable of securely fitting with a variety bone tissue having varying bone densities.

Within the context of this application the term "implant" may be interchangeable with the any of the terms including but not limited to post, screw, endosseous implant, fixture or the like terms according to the art to refer to a portion of an implant that is to implanted within bone. For example, a dental implant of any type may be realized with embodiments of the present invention for example including but not limited to trans-gingival implants, one piece implants and multi-piece implants. Within the context of this application the term "functional threading portion" refers to a portion of an implant comprising threading and utilized for integrating and/or interfacing and/or securely coupling the implant structure within the bone facilitating implantation within the bone.

Within the context of this application the term "flute" may be interchangeable with any of the terms including but not limited to grooves, recess or the like terms according to the art to refer to a portion of an implant provided with a cutting edge for tapping function, gathering function or the like.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for an endosseous implant, for example including but not limited to a portion of a dental implant that is to be fully disposed within bone defining an implant's functional threading portion. The functional threading portion including: a proximal portion, a distal portion and a step there between.

Most preferably the proximal and/or distal portions comprise individual threading defining proximal portion threading and distal portion threading. Optionally the proximal portion and/or distal portion threading are adapted for osseointegration with different bone type.

Most preferably the proximal portion threading defines a proximal major diameter and a proximal minor diameter. Most preferably the distal portion threading defines a distal major diameter and a distal minor diameter.

Most preferably the step is defined by the difference in diameter between the proximal portion and distal portion. Most preferably the step is defined as the difference between the proximal major diameter and the distal major diameter. Optionally and preferably the step is defined such that the distal major diameter is smaller than, equal to or larger than the proximal minor diameter.

Optionally and preferably the step may be discrete or gradual. Optionally a gradual step may assume a plurality of optional geometry and or/shape for example including but not limited to curved, convex, concave, linear, angular, stepwise, sloping, sigmoid, any combination thereof or the like.

Optionally and preferably the step about the functional threading portion provides for immediate loading of the implant. Optionally and preferably the step within the implant provides for immediate loading as the step may provide a further physical barrier and/or stopper for the implant should it move and/or displace within or across the implantation zone. Optionally and preferably the discrete step provides a physical barrier preventing migration of the implant toward the sinus when disposed in the upper jaw or the mandibular nerve when disposed in the lower jaw.

Optionally and preferably each of the proximal and/or distal portions may be individually shaped according to at least one or more parameters so as to provide a plurality of optional shapes within each portion. Optionally each portion of the implant may be provided with optional properties that may be individually controlled for example including but not limited to shape, angle, diameter, threading, height and/length, any combination thereof or the like. Optionally each of distal portion, proximal portion or step may assume a geometric shape for example including but not limited to cylindrical, conical, trapezoidal, triangular, polyhedral, curved, polygonal of n sides wherein n is at least 3 (n>=3), any combination thereof or the like.

Optionally the distal portion and /or proximal portion may individually be provided with a constant diameter, a gradually increasing diameter, gradually decreasing diameter, tapering or any combination thereof.

Most preferably the distal and proximal portions are concentric with one another having a common center. A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for an endosseous implant formed from at least one or more parts. Most preferably the endosseous implant according to the present invention is formed from a single fluid and/or continuous body.

Optionally the endosseous implant may be provided from at least two or more parts that combine to form the dental implant of the present invention. Optionally the distal portion and proximal portion may be formed from a single, unitary member.

Optionally the distal portion and proximal portion may be formed from a plurality of members that may be coupled to form the implant according to the present invention.

Optionally the proximal and distal threading may be configured to be continuous with one another while maintaining and defining the step between the proximal and distal portions.

Optionally and preferably the height and/or length of the distal portion, proximal portion and step may be individually controlled, providing for any combination of heights between the different portions forming the functional threading portion of the implant according to the present invention.

Most preferably the proximal and distal threading may be configured to implant within and securely fit with bone tissue of varying densities and hardness levels. Optionally and preferably the proximal threading may be configured and optimized to implant within and securely fit with hard grade bone and the distal threading may be configured and optimized to implant within and securely fit with soft grade bone.

Optionally proximal threading may be configured and optimized to implant within and securely fit with soft grade bone and the distal threading may be configured and optimized to implant within and securely fit with hard grade bone.

Optionally and preferably the threading profile of any of the distal portion and/or proximal portion and/or step may be provided in a plurality of optional forms and/or combination by controlling at least one or more threading parameters for example including but not limited to lead, pitch, thread angle, thickness, major diameter, minor diameter, taper angle, thread orientation, end position, start position, porosity, number of stops, number of starts, number of leads, number of cuts, lead in angle, or the like threading variable and/or parameters. Optionally at least one or both of the distal and/or proximal portions may comprise a variable diameter about their length.

Most preferably the distal portion and proximal portion are concentric with one another.

Optionally the implant may comprise up to four flutes disposed about at least a portion of at least one or both of the proximal portion and/or distal portion of the implant. Optionally the flutes disposed about the distal and/or proximal portions may be continuous with one another. Optionally the implant may be provided with a flute spanning both the distal portion and proximal portion in a continuous or fluid manner. Optionally the flute may spans at least a portion of the proximal portion and the length of the distal portion. Optionally the flute may spans at least a portion of the distal portion and the length of the proximal portion.

Optionally the implant may have at least one and up to four flutes. Optionally the implant flutes may be disposed asymmetrically or symmetrically about the implant body.

Most preferably the implant according to the present invention is provided from medical grade and/or biocompatible and/or implantable materials for example including but not limited to titanium, titanium alloys, Chrome-Cobalt alloy, other metal alloys, Zirconium, Hydroxyapatite coated materials, plastics, polymers, Nitinol, stainless steel, composite materials, or the like biocompatible materials.

Although the foregoing description is provided with reference and examples toward dental implants, such description and examples are provided for illustrative non-limiting purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope or spirit of the present invention, solely to dental application(s). The endosseous implant of the present application may be adapted for use with a plurality of optional applications and/or bones for example orthopedic application, for example coupling two bones of different densities. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. Implementation of the method and system of the present invention involves performing or completing certain selected tasks or steps manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of preferred embodiments of the method and system of the present invention, several selected steps could be implemented by hardware or by software on any operating system of any firmware or a combination thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in order to provide what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1A-B show prior art dental implants and their placement within the jaw.

FIG. 2A-E are various views of a schematic illustrative diagram of optional endosseous implant body according to optional embodiments of the present invention having a step, implant shown with optional step configuration according to the present invention however without functional threading;

FIG. 3A-D are various views of a schematic illustrative diagram of an optional endosseous implant body according to optional embodiments of the present invention having a step, implant shown with a defined step according to the present invention however without functional threading;

FIG. 4A-B are various views of a schematic illustrative diagram of an optional endosseous implant body according to optional embodiments of the present invention with varying steps, implant shown with threading;

FIG. 5A-F are various views, perspective and side views, of a schematic illustrative diagram of an exemplary endosseous implant according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown with threading;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of exemplary methods for implanting the endosseous implant in bone of varying density; and

FIG. 7A-C are schematic cross-sectional views of an implantation canal or borehole shaped according to the type of bone density types at the implantation site. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The principles and operation of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description. The following figure reference labels are used throughout the description to refer to similarly functioning components are used throughout the specification herein below.

10 Prior Art implant;

2 abutment;

4 coronal portion;

6 implant body functional threading portion;

8 apex;

100 implant body; 102 step;

102a,b discrete step;

102g gradual/transitional step portion;

102s lead lines;

104 distal portion;

104d distal portion diameter;

106 proximal portion;

106d proximal portion diameter;

108 coronal portion;

110 flute;

114 distal threading;

1141 distal threading minor diameter;

114J distal threading major diameter;

116 proximal threading ;

1161 proximal threading minor diameter;

116 J proximal threading maj or diameter;

118 coronal portion threading;

120 implantation canal;

122 primary canal or non-coronal portion of implantation canal; 124 distal portion of implantation canal;

126 proximal portion of implantation canal;

128 coronal portion of implantation canal;

FIG. 1A shows section of a jaw bone comprising a variety of prior art implants. The prior art implants may be trans-gingival implants as shown in FIG. IB, or bone level implants that are embedded within the jaw bone as shown in FIG. 1A. The prior art one-piece implant 10, as shown in FIG. IB, comprises an abutment 2 for coupling the dental prosthesis, shown in FIG. 1A. Prior art implant 10 further comprises coronal portion 4, implant body 6 and apex 8 (distal tip). Implant body 6 defines the functional threading portion of an implant that interfaces and couples with the bone to anchor the implant with the bone structure as shown in FIG. 1 A. Implant body 6 define a functional threading portion in both bone level, one-piece and trans- gingival prior art implants as shown in FIG. 1A. Prior art implants as represented in FIG. 1A-B have a tapered or substantially conical functional threading portion profile. Such uniform functional threading portion is limited in that it provides for implantation within one bone type either, hard, medium, or soft and must be configured accordingly.

Conversely the implant according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for a single implant that may be implanted in a variety of optional bone type or within an implantation site having a graded or plurality of bone densities along the length of the implantation site. An optional embodiment provides for an implant where different portions of the implant are configured and/or adapted to fit within individual bone types.

FIG. 2A-E show a perspective view of a schematic illustrative diagram of optional endosseous implants 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In an optional and preferable embodiment of the present invention, implant 100 may be realized as a dental implant; however such is a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, where implant 100 may be realized as a bone implant for orthopedic and/or veterinarian applications or any other bone related application.

Endosseous implant 100, shown without threading for ease of illustration, is most preferably formed from a single fluid/continuous body having a proximal portion 106, a distal portion 104 that may be arranged in a concentric manner and define a step 102.

Optionally implant 100 may be formed from a plurality of independent members defining distal portion 104 and proximal portion 106 that may be coupled to form the implant 100 according to the present invention.

Most preferably distal portion 104 has a smaller diameter 104d than proximal portion diameter 106d defining step 102. Optionally step 102 may be a discrete step (102a,b FIG 4A-B) as shown in FIG. 2A and 2B defined by the overhanging region between proximal portion 106 and distal portion 104.

Optionally step 102 may be provided as a transitional and/or gradual step 102g, defining a step portion 102g as shown in FIG.2C-E, that may be provided in a plurality of optional configuration, geometry and or/shape for example including but not limited to curved, convex (FIG. 2D), concave (FIG. 2C), linear (FIG. 2E), angular (FIG. 2E), stepwise, sloping (FIG. 2E), sigmoid, any combination thereof or the like.

Optionally implant 100 may be formed from a plurality of independent members defining a distal portion 104 and proximal portion 106 having a step portion 102g therebetween wherein each portion may be coupled to form the implant 100 according to the present invention. Optionally proximal portion 106 may comprise a coronal portion 108.

Optionally step portion 102g may have a core geometric shape selected from the group consisting of cylindrical, conical, trapezoidal, triangular, polyhedral, curved, polygonal of n sides wherein n is at least 3 (n>=3), any combination thereof or the like.

Optionally, the core geometric shape of step portion 102g, may be different than the core shape of distal portion 104 or proximal portion 106. Optionally, the core geometric shape of step portion 102g may be different than the shape of distal portion and proximal portion.

Optionally and preferably the step 102 about the functional threading portion provides for immediate loading implant. Optionally and preferably step 102 within the implant's functional threading portion provides for immediate loading of the implant. For example step 102 may provide a further physical barrier and/or stopper for the implant 100. Optionally, step 102 may act as a stopper and/or barrier should implant 100 move and/or displace within or/and across the implantation zone and/or traverse the implantation zone, and/or penetrate through the implantation site to the other side of the bone. For example, step 102, 102a. 102b, 102g may provide a stopping member for stopping implant 100 from migrating into the sinus cavity when implant 100 is disposed in the upper jaw. For example, step 102, 102a. 102b, 102g may provide a stopping member for stopping implant 100 from migrating toward the mandibular nerve when implant 100 is disposed in the lower jaw. Optional configurations of step 102 for example in the form of steps 102a, 102b, 102g acting as a stopping member are depicted in FIGs. 2A-C and FIGs. 3-5.

FIG. 3A-D provide optional sectional views of implant 100 according optional embodiments of the present invention, where proximal portion 106 and distal portion 104 are individually shaped and/or configured according to at least one or more parameters. Optionally distal portion 104 and/or proximal portion 106 may be provided with optional properties for example including but not limited to shape, angle, diameter, threading, height and/length, any combination thereof or the like.

Optionally each of distal portion 104, proximal portion 106 or step 102 may assume a geometric shape for example including but not limited to cylindrical, conical (FIG. 3A-D), trapezoidal, triangular, polyhedral, curved, polygonal of n sides wherein n is at least 3 (n>=3) any combination thereof or the like.

For example FIG. 3 A shows the distal portion 104 having a constant diameter 104d along its length and proximal portion 106 having a constant diameter 106d along its length.

FIG. 3B-D, show optional embodiments where either proximal portion 106 and//or distal portion 104 comprise varying diameters along the length of the given portion. FIG. 3B shows an optional implant 100 comprising a distal portion 104 having a conical profile while the proximal portion 106 is provided with a cylindrical profile.

FIG. 3C shows an optional implant 100 comprising a proximal portion 106 having a conical and trapezoidal profile while distal portion 104 is provided with a cylindrical profile.

FIG. 3D shows an optional implant 100 comprising a distal portion 104 and proximal portion 106 both having a conical profile.

Optionally distal portion 104 and/or proximal portion 106 may be provided with a profile of any shape and/or size.

Optionally the length of distal portion 104 and proximal portion 106 are individually controllable and/or variable according to at least one or more parameters for example including but not limited to size, shape, profile, diameter, length, the like or any combination thereof.

FIG. 4A-B are various views of a schematic illustrative diagram of an optional endosseous implant body 100 according to optional embodiments shown with threading 114, 116 defining a step 102 according to the present invention.,

Most preferably the external surface of implant 100 about each of the distal portion 104 and proximal portion 106 is provided with threading 114, 116 respectively. Most preferably threading 114, 116 provides for cutting, interfacing, integrating and implanting within the bone at the implantation site. Proximal portion 106 comprises proximal portion threading 116 and distal portion 104 comprises distal portion threading 114. Most preferably each of the proximal threading 116 and distal threading 114 portions comprise a major diameter 116 J, 114J and minor diameter 1161, 1141.

Optionally and preferably the proximal portion 106 and distal portion 104 threading are configured to define step 102, such that the distal major diameter 114J is smaller than the proximal minor diameter 1161, therein defining step 102 between the proximal portion 106 and distal portion 104, as shown with dotted lead line 102s. FIG. 4A shows an optional discrete step 102a, for example as shown in FIG. 2A-B, where step 102a is defined by the difference between distal major diameter 114J and the proximal minor diameter 1161 such that 114J is smaller or equal to 1161 (114J=<1161), as outlined by dashed lead line 102s.

FIG. 4B shows an optional discrete step 102b , for example as shown in FIG. 2A-B, where step 102b is less pronounced than step 102a, and is defined by the difference between distal major diameter 114J and the proximal major diameter 116J such that 114J is smaller than 116J (114J<116J), as shown by dotted lead line 102s.

Optionally and preferably step 102 may be configured such that the distal major diameter 114J is smaller than (<), equal to (=) or larger than (>) the proximal minor diameter 1161.

Optionally the proximal threading 116 and distal threading 114 may be configured to be continuous with one another while maintaining and defining step 102 between the proximal 106 and distal 104 portions.

Optionally and preferably implant threading, distal 114 and proximal 116, may be individually provided according to at least one or more and more preferably a plurality of threading variables and/or parameters for example including but not limited to lead, pitch, thread angle, number of starts, number of leads, thickness, major diameter, minor diameter, taper angle, thread orientation, end position, start position, porosity, number of stops, number of cuts, lead in angle, number of leads (starts), variable thread design, or the like threading variable and/or parameters.

Optionally and preferably implant threading, distal threading 114 and proximal threading 116, may be provided with any threading type, or form as is known and accepted in the art.

Optionally and preferably distal threading 114 may be adapted and/or configured to associate with medium to soft spectrum bone. Optionally and preferably proximal threading 116 may be adapted and/or configured to associate with medium to hard spectrum bone. Optionally distal threading 114 and proximal threading 116 may be configured relative to one another so as to provide an implant 100 comprising a combination of at least two or more threading type capable of associated with a plurality of bone tissue type, in any combination thereof.

Most preferably the proximal threading 116 and distal threading 114 may be configured to implant within and securely fit with bone tissue of varying densities and hardness levels. Optionally and preferably proximal threading 116 is configured and optimized to implant within and securely fit with hard grade bone for example including but not limited to cortical bone, hard grade trabecular bone dense bone or the like.

Optionally implant 100 may be configured to provide a plurality of optional combination of threading type based on the bone density of an implantation site.

For example, an implantation site comprising two degrees of hard bone, for example very dense bone (Dl grade) proximally and hard-medium dense bone distally (D2 grade). Accordingly an optional implant 100 may be configured to have proximal threading 116 optimized to fit within dense bone (Dl grade) and below hard bone (that have match zone with the proximal portion) about the proximal segment 106 and distal threading 114 optimized to fit within hard-medium dense bone (D2 grade).

For example, an implantation site comprising dense/hard bone (D2 grade) proximally and soft bone (D4 grade) distally, may be fit with the implant 100 according to optional non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. For example, Implant 100 may be configured to have proximal threading 116 optimized to fit within hard dense bone (D2 grade) about the proximal segment 106 and distal threading 114 optimized to fit within soft bone (D4 grade).

FIG. 5A-F provides a schematic illustrative depiction of an optional embodiment of implant 100 described in FIG. 2-4, about various dental implant forms. Implant 100 shown in FIG. 5A-D, show implant 100 further comprising an optional coronal portion 108. The apex of implant 100 (not shown) may be provided in any shape and/or form as is known and accepted in the art. Coronal portion 108 may be provided in a plurality of optional non limiting forms and or designs as is known and accepted in the art. Optionally and preferably coronal portion 108 may be provided with threading 118 a non limiting example of which is as shown in FIG. 5B.

FIG. 5A-5F shows a perspective and side views of optional embodiments of implant 100 comprising an optional flute 110. FIG 5 A further provides a depiction of an optional flute 110 spanning both proximal segment 106 and distal segment 104.

Optionally the implant may comprise up to four flutes 110 disposed about at least a portion of at least one or both of the proximal portion 106 and/or distal portion 106 of the implant 100. Optionally flutes 100 may be disposed about the distal portion 104 and/or proximal portion 106. Optionally flutes 110 may be continuous or discontinuous with one another along the length of implant 100. Optionally the implant may be provided with a flute spanning both the distal portion 104 and proximal portion 106 in a continuous or fluid manner, for example as shown in FIG. 5A-D. Optionally the flute may span at least a portion of the proximal portion 106 and the length of the distal portion 104. Optionally flute 110 may span at least a portion of the distal portion 104 and the length of the proximal portion 106.

Optionally implant 100 may comprise at least one and up to four flutes 110. Optionally flutes 110 may be disposed asymmetrically or symmetrically about the external surface of implant body 110.

Optionally flute 110 may be provided and/or integrated with implant 100 comprising any design shape and/or form as is known and accepted in the art. FIG. 6 shows a flowchart of optional methods for implanting implant

100 according to the present invention within implantation sites having different bone types. The method for implantation initiates in stage 300 by assessing the bone type within the implantation site. Following bone type assessment a first canal is formed within the bone forming the implantation site. Most preferably the canal dimensions (diameter and length of the canal) are preferably determined based on the bone type determined in stage 300.

If hard dense bone (DI, Dl) implantation is required, then in stage 302, a main canal is formed in the depth of the required implant length such that the canal's diameter is slightly less than the proximal major diameter 116J. Optionally, if cortical bone covers the implantation site, then in optional stage 304 the implantation canal is slightly widened about its coronal portion.

Next in stage 306 implant 100 is placed within the canal where proximal threading 116 engages and integrates with the bone type, while optionally and preferably distal threading 114 does not engage bone tissue within the canal.

An example of an implantation canal 120 for hard dense bone type, that is shaped according to optional embodiments of the present is schematically illustrated in FIG. 7 A. FIG. 7 A shows implantation canal 120 comprising a coronal portion 128 and a primary canal 122 having a diameter that is optionally and preferably smaller than the proximal portion 106 of implant 100. Most preferably the primary canal 122 for hard/dense bone type is smaller than the proximal major diameter 116J or the proximal minor diameter 1161 of implant 100.

If medium dense bone (DII/DIII, D2, D3) or combination soft/hard bone implantation is required within a single implantation site, then in stage 312, a main canal 122 is formed most preferably according to the depth required to fit the length of implant 100 such that the canal's diameter is slightly less than the distal major diameter 114J. Next in stage 314 the implantation canal is widened to the depth of the proximal portion length of the required implant, about its medial segment, for example to be slightly less than the proximal portion major diameter 116J. Optionally, if cortical bone covers the implantation site, then in optional stage 316 the implantation proximal canal is slightly widened about its coronal portion.

Next in stage 318, implant 100 is placed within the canal where both proximal threading 116 and distal threading 114 engage and integrate with the bone tissue within the canal.

An example of an implantation canal 120 for medium dense bone type, that is shaped according to optional embodiments of the present is schematically illustrated in FIG. 7B. FIG. 7B shows implantation canal 120 comprising a coronal portion 128 and a primary canal 122. Optionally and preferably primary canal further comprises a proximal portion 126 and a distal portion 124. Most preferably proximal portion 126 is configured to associate with proximal portion 106 of implant 100. Most preferably distal portion 124 is configured to associate with distal portion 104 of implant 100. Most preferably each of distal portion 124 and proximal portion 126 of primary canal 122 is shaped according to the size of the respective distal 104 and proximal 106 portions of implant 100, such that optionally and preferably both proximal 106 and distal portion 104 may be engaged within the primary implantation canal 122.

If low density (D4/DIV), spongy and/or soft trabecular bone implantation is required, then in stage 322, a main canal is formed in the depth of the required implant length such that the canal's diameter is slightly less than the distal major diameter 114 J.

Next in stage 326, implant 100 is placed within the canal where both proximal threading 116 and distal threading 114 engage and integrate with the bone tissue within the canal.

An example of an implantation canal 120 for soft grade, low dense bone type, that is shaped according to optional embodiments of the present is schematically illustrated in FIG. 7C. FIG. 7C shows implantation canal 120 comprising a coronal portion 128 and a primary canal 122. Most preferably the primary canal 122 is configured according to distal portion 104 of implant 100. Most preferably primary canal is configured to have a diameter that is optionally and preferably smaller than the distal portion 104 of implant 100. Most preferably the primary canal 122 for soft bone or low density bone type is smaller than the distal major diameter 114J or the distal minor diameter 1141 of implant 100.

While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiment, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not described to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Having described a specific preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to that precise embodiment and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention defined by the appended claims.

Further modifications of the invention will also occur to persons skilled in the art and all such are deemed to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many variations, modifications and other applications of the invention may be made.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1) An endosseous implant adapted for implantation within a plurality of bone types, the implant having a functional threading portion including a distal portion (104) and a proximal portion (106) having different diameters, wherein the difference in the diameter between said distal and proximal portions define a step (102); wherein said distal portion includes distal threading (114) defining a distal major diameter (114J) and distal minor diameter (1141) and said proximal portion (106) includes proximal threading (116) defining a proximal major diameter (116J) and proximal minor diameter (1161).

2) The implant of claim 1 wherein said step (102) is defined such that said distal major diameter (114J) is smaller than said proximal major diameter (116J).

3) The implant of claim 1 wherein said step (102) is defined such that said distal major diameter (114J) is smaller than, equal to, or larger than said proximal minor diameter (1161).

4) The implant of claim 1 wherein said proximal portion or said distal portion may assume a shape selected from the group consisting of cylindrical, conical, trapezoidal, triangular, polyhedral, curved, polygonal of n sides wherein n is at least 3 (n>=3) or any combination thereof.

5) The implant of claim 1 wherein said proximal portion (106) or said distal portion (104) have a major diameter or minor diameter configured to have a profile selected from the group consisting of: constant diameter, gradually increasing diameter, gradually decreasing diameter, tapering or any combination thereof. 6) The implant of claim 1 wherein said proximal portion (106) is shaped according to at least one or more parameter.

7) The implant of claim 1 wherein said distal portion (104) is shaped according to at least one or more parameter.

8) The implant of claim 6 wherein said proximal portion (106) may be individually configured according to at least one or more parameter selected from the group consisting of shape, angle, diameter, threading, height/length, or any combination thereof.

9) The implant of claim 7 wherein said distal portion (104) may be individually configured according to at least one or more parameter selected from the group consisting of shape, angle, diameter, threading, height/length, or any combination thereof.

10) The implant of claim 1 wherein said step (102) may be configured to be discrete (102a,b) or gradual (102g).

11) The implant of claim 10 wherein said gradual step (102g) defines a step portion.

12) The implant of claim 11 wherein said step portion is a gradual step (102g) having geometry or profile selected from the group consisting of curved, convex, concave, linear, angular, stepwise, sloping, sigmoid, or any combination thereof.

13) The implant of claim 11 wherein said step portion (102g) may have a core geometric shape selected from the group consisting of cylindrical, conical, trapezoidal, triangular, polyhedral, curved, polygonal of n sides wherein n is at least 3 (n>=3), any combination thereof or the like.

14) The implant of claim 13 wherein the core geometric shape of said step portion is different than the shape of distal portion or proximal portion.

15) The implant of claim 13 wherein the core geometric shape of said step portion is different than the shape of distal portion and proximal portion.

16) The implant of claim 1 wherein said step provides for immediate loading of the implant.

17) The implant of claim 1 wherein said step provides a physical barrier and/or stopper for the implant preventing the implant from migrating into the sinus or toward the mandibular nerve.

18) The implant of claim 1 provided in the form of a dental implant.

19) The implant of claim 1 provided in the form of an orthopedic implant.

20) The implant of claim 1 provided in the form of an animal bone implant.

21) The implant of claim 18 provided in the form selected from the group consisting of: trans-gingival implant, one piece implant, or a multi-piece implant, bone level implant.

22) The implant of claim 1 wherein said proximal and distal portions are concentric with one another. 23) The implant of claim 1 wherein said proximal portion is adapted to interface with bone having harder properties than bone associated with said distal portion.

24) The implant of claim 1 wherein said threading is adapted according to at least one or more threading parameters selected from the group consisting of lead, pitch, thread angle, number of starts, number of leads, thickness, major diameter, minor diameter, taper angle, thread orientation, end position, start position, porosity, number of stops, number of cuts, lead in angle, or any combination thereof.

25) The implant of claim 1 further comprising up to four flutes on any of said proximal portion, said distal portion, or said step.

26) The implant of claim 25 wherein at least one or more of said flutes are continuous spanning said proximal portion, said step, and distal portion.

27) The implant of claim 25 wherein said flute spans at least a portion of the proximal portion and the length of said step and said distal portion.

28) The implant of claim 25 wherein said flute spans at least a portion of the distal portion and the length of said step and said proximal portion.

29) The implant of claim 25 comprising at least one flute.

30) The implant of claim 25 wherein said flute is disposed asymmetrically or symmetrically about the implant body.

31) The implant of claim 1 provided from biocompatible materials selected from the group consisting of titanium, titanium alloys, Chrome-Cobalt alloy, other metal alloys, Zirconium, Hydroxyapatite coated materials, plastics, polymers, Nitinol, stainless steel composite materials.

32) The implant of claim 1 wherein said implant is constructed from a plurality of independent members that may be coupled to form said implant.

33) The implant of claim 32 wherein said independent members correspond to and define said distal portion (104) and said proximal portion (106).

34) The implant of claim 33 wherein said independent members further define a step (102) between said distal portion (104) and said proximal portion (106).

35) A method for implanting the implant of any of claims 1-34 including shaping the non-coronal portion of an implantation canal according to the implant shape and bone density at the implantation site.

36) The method of claim 35 wherein the primary implantation canal (122) is shaped proportional to the bone density distribution, wherein softer bone density type is provided with a smaller borehole diameter and wherein harder bone type is provided with a larger borehole diameter.

37) The method of claim 35 configured to implant within hard grade bone density wherein the diameter of the non-coronal portion of said implantation canal is proportional to the diameters of the proximal portion (106).

38) The method of claim 37 wherein the largest diameter of the primary implantation canal (122) is smaller than the proximal major diameter (116 J) or the proximal minor diameter (1161). 39) The method of claim 38 wherein, the implantation canal is configured not to engage with distal portion (104) having distal portion threading (114).

40) The method of claim 35 configured to implant within soft grade bone or low density bone wherein the diameter of said implantation canal is proportional to the diameters of the distal portion (104).

41) The method of claim 40 wherein the largest diameter of the non-coronal implantation canal is smaller than the distal major diameter (114J) or the distal minor diameter (1141).