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A system for positioning an element relative to an articular surface. An embodiment of the system may include a first element having a positional reference relative to an articular surface. The system may further include a second element capable of indicating the positional reference of the first element relative to said articular surface. Of course, many alternatives, variations, and modifications are possible without departing from this embodiment.
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This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/360,228, filed Feb. 6, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,029,479, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/846,657, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,520,964, filed May 1, 2001, which claims benefit of U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/201,049, filed May 1, 2000.FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to devices and methods for the repair of defects that occur in articular cartilage on the surface of bones, particularly the knee.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Articular cartilage, found at the ends of articulating bone in the body, is typically composed of hyaline cartilage, which has many unique properties that allow it to function effectively as a smooth and lubricious load-bearing surface. However, when injured, hyaline cartilage cells are not typically replaced by new hyaline cartilage cells. Healing is dependent upon the occurrence of bleeding from the underlying bone and formation of scar or reparative cartilage called fibrocartilage. While similar, fibrocartilage does not possess the same unique aspects of native hyaline cartilage and tends to be far less durable.
Hyaline cartilage problems, particularly in knee and hip joints, are generally caused by disease such as occurs with rheumatoid arthritis or wear and tear (osteoarthritis), or secondary to an injury, either acute (sudden), or recurrent and chronic (ongoing). Such cartilage disease or deterioration can compromise the articular surface causing pain and further deterioration of joint function. As a result, various methods have been developed to treat and repair damaged or destroyed articular cartilage.
For smaller defects, traditional options for this type of problem include non-operative therapies (e.g., oral medication or medication by injection into the joint), or performing a surgical procedure called abrasion arthroplasty or abrasion chondralplasty. The principle behind this procedure is to attempt to stimulate natural healing. At the defect site, the bone surface is abraded, removing approximately 1 mm. or less using a high-speed rotary burr or shaving device. This creates an exposed subchondral bone bed that will bleed and will initiate a fibrocartilage healing response. Although this procedure has been widely used over the past two decades and can provide good short term results, (1-3 years), the resulting fibrocartilage surface is seldom able to support long-term weight bearing, particularly in high-activity patients, and is prone to wear.
Another procedure, referred to as the "microfracture" technique, incorporates similar concepts of creating exposed subchondral bone. During the procedure, the cartilage layer of the chondral defect is removed. Several pathways or "microfractures" are created to the subchondral bleeding bone bed by impacting a metal pick or surgical awl at a minimum number of locations within the lesion. By establishing bleeding in the lesion and by creating a pathway to the subchondral bone, a fibrocartilage healing response is initiated, forming a replacement surface. Results for this technique are generally similar to abrasion chondralplasty.
Another known option to treat damaged articular cartilage is a cartilage transplant, referred to as a Mosaicplasty or osteoarticular transfer system (OATS) technique. This involves using a series of dowel cutting instruments to harvest a plug of articular cartilage and subchondral bone from a donor site, which can then be implanted into a core made into the defect site. By repeating this process, transferring a series of plugs, and by placing them in close proximity to one another, in mosaic-like fashion, a new grafted hyaline cartilage surface can be established. The result is a hyaline-like surface interposed with a fibrocartilage healing response between each graft.
This procedure is technically difficult, as all grafts must be taken with the axis of the harvesting coring drill being kept perpendicular to the articular surface at the point of harvest. Also, all graft placement sites must be drilled with the axis of a similar coring tool being kept perpendicular to the articular surface at the point of implantation. Further, all grafts must be placed so that the articular surface portion of these cartilage and bone plugs is delivered to the implantation site and seated at the same level as the surrounding articular surface. If these plugs are not properly placed in relation to the surrounding articular surface, the procedure can have a very detrimental effect on the mating articular surface. If the plugs are placed too far below the level of the surrounding articular surface, no benefit from the procedure will be gained. Further, based on the requirement of perpendicularity on all harvesting and placement sites, the procedure requires many access and approach angles that typically require an open field surgical procedure. Finally, this procedure requires a lengthy post-operative non-weight bearing course.
Transplantation of previously harvested hyaline cartilage cells from the same patient has been utilized in recent years. After the cartilage is removed or harvested, it is cultured in the lab to obtain an increase in the number of cells. These cells are later injected back into the focal defect site and retained by sewing a patch of periosteal tissue over the top of the defect to contain the cells while they heal and mature. The disadvantages of this procedure are its enormous expense, technical complexity, and the need for an open knee surgery. Further, this technique is still considered somewhat experimental and long-term results are unknown. Some early studies have concluded that this approach offers no significant improvement in outcomes over traditional abrasion and microfracture techniques.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,782,835 to Hart et al. discloses an apparatus and method for repair of articular cartilage including a bone plug removal tool, and a bone plug emplacement tool. The method of repairing defective articular cartilage includes the steps of removing the defective cartilage and forming a hole of sufficient depth at the site. A bone plug comprising intact bone and cartilage adhering thereto is removed from a bone lacking defective cartilage is placed in the hole at the site of the damage.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,413,608 to Keller discloses a knee joint endoprosthesis for replacing the articular surfaces of the tibia comprising a bearing part which is anchored on the bone having an upper bearing surface and a rotatable plateau secured on the bearing surface and forming a part of the articular surface to be replaced. A journal rises from the bearing surface and cooperates with a bore in the plateau to provide lateral support.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,632,745 to Schwartz describes a method of surgically implanting into a site a bio-absorbable cartilage repair assembly. The assembly includes a bio-absorbable polygonal T-shaped delivery unit having radial ribs to be mounted in the removed area and a porous bio-absorbable insert supported by and in the delivery unit. The method comprises the steps of preparing the site to receive the assembly by removing a portion of the damaged cartilage and preparing the site to receive the assembly by drilling and countersinking the bone. The assembly is inserted and seated using an impactor in the drilled and countersunk hole in the bone until the assembly is flush with the surrounding articular surface.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,683,466 to Vitale illustrates an articular joint surface replacement system having two opposing components. Each component has a tapered head piece for covering the end of a bone and for acting as an articular surface, an integrally formed screw stem of sufficient length to extend into the bone and inwardly angled bone grips on the underside of the head piece to allow fixation to the bone by compression fit. The partially spherical convex shaped exterior of the first component complements the partially spherical concave shaped exterior of the second component.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,702,401 to Shaffer discloses an intra-articular measuring device including a hollow handle defining a first passageway and a hollow tube having a second passageway extending from the handle, the hollow tube carrying a projection at its distal end for seating on a fixed site and a probe disposed at the distal end of the hollow tube which may be directed to a second site, to enable measurement of the distance between the first and second sites.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,771,310 to Vannah describes a method of mapping the three-dimensional topography of the surface of an object by generating digital data points at a plurality of sample points on said surface, each digital data point including a property value and a position value corresponding to a particular point representing the properties of the surface of the object. A 3-D transducer probe (e.g., a digitizer) is moved on or over the surface along a random path, and the sample points are digitized to generate a real-time topography or map on a computer screen of selected properties of the object, including without limitation, surface elevation, indentation stiffness, elevation of sub-surface layers and temperature.
Prosthetics for total knee replacement (TKR), whereby the entire knee joint or a single compartment of the knee joint is replaced can be a common eventuality for the patient with a large focal defect. Although these patients are also managed with anti-inflammatory medications, eventual erosion of the remaining articular cartilage results in effusion, pain, and loss of mobility and/or activity for the patient. Problems encountered after implanting such prostheses are usually caused by the eventual loosening of the prosthetic due to osteolysis, wear, or deterioration of the cements used to attach the device to the host bones. Further, some prostheses used are actually much larger than the degenerated tissue that needs to be replaced, so that extensive portions of healthy bone are typically removed to accommodate the prostheses. Patients who undergo TKR often face a long and difficult rehabilitation period, and the life span of the TKR is accepted to be approximately 20 years. Accordingly, efforts are made to forgo the TKR procedure for as long as possible.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved joint surface replacement system that would be effective in restoring a smooth and continuous articulating surface and that would also be as durable as the former hyaline cartilage surface, within the context of a minimally invasive procedure that allows for a nearly immediate return to activity, restoration of lifestyle, and pain relief.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides tools and methods for mapping and measuring the articular surface of a joint (or of any bony surface) and for fabricating a prosthetic device based on this recorded data.
In one method consistent with the invention, once the defect of the chondral surface has been identified, a guide pin is inserted arthroscopically. A fixation screw having a tapered distal tip and an aggressive distal end thread form is then driven into the subchondral bone in relation to a reference axis that is approximately central to the defect. The fixation device also serves to define a tangent point to the surrounding articular surface. The screw is driven by a socket type driver that engages a hex-shaped proximal extension. A further cylindrical proximal extension of the screw (or other mating feature, e.g., a recess in the screw) that eventually serves as a fixation element for the surface prosthetic is at this time concealed with a cover (or other mating feature corresponding to the mating feature of the screw, e.g., a plug for mating with a screw having a recess as its mating feature) having a radiused proximal end. One or more milled slots run the length of the uniform diameter portion of the screw.
Under arthroscopic view, the screw depth is adjusted so that the radiused cover surface is positioned tangent to the radius that defines the existing articular surface. At this time, the guide pin is removed and the knee is articulated. The depth positioning of the radiused cover establishes an origin or reference point for all future measuring, cutting, and prosthetic machining operations. Arthroscopic examination is carried out to confirm positioning.
A measuring tool is inserted on the reference axis. A central element of the measuring tool is a static post that establishes the axial location of origin. By rotating the outer arm or outrigger of the measuring tool relative to the static post while also maintaining contact with the articular surface, an axial displacement or Z dimension can be established relative to the origin for any point along the known radial sweep of the outrigger to determine the final geometry of the prosthetic surface which fits within the defect. These Z dimensions can be recorded in real time with conventional dial gauge indicators, or with digital recording devices, or by using marking techniques. Although numerous points may be taken, ideally a minimum number of points are taken to accurately define the target articular surface.
Locating surfaces or features created on the screw, (or alternatively, on the radius cover, as described in alternative embodiments herein), correlate to some surface or feature on the measuring tool and allow the measurement of the rotational position of the points about the axis with respect to the locating surfaces. Data recorded during the mapping procedure can then be entered into parametric engineering design software or similar algorithm to define a three dimensional surface matched to the bearing surface geometry to be implanted and reproduce the anatomic contours mapped.
An alternative measuring device for obtaining the articular surface dimension includes an outer marking element and an inner recording element. The marking element includes a sharp indenting mechanism which when pressed by the surgeon creates a depression or mark in the relatively soft surface of the recording element, which deforms at these marked points so that they can be utilized as patient data. The recording element also includes a surface that corresponds to the surface of the proximal extension of the fixation screw. During the mapping procedure, data points are established of the rotational position of the mapped articular surface relative to the screw. These data points are translated to the implant geometry so that the accurate rotational location of the implant relative to the screw is maintained.
In order to secure the implant to the fixation screw, a precision taper (or other component of a mating feature) is machined into a protrusion (or other component of a mating feature) on the back of the device. The implant may be constructed of cobalt chromium, or other materials. The implant may also include a slight outward taper or protrusion along the diametrical surface to enhance load bearing or load transfer properties of the implant to surrounding bone. Additionally, a series of radial cuts may create surfaces that increase resistance of the implant to rotational forces. These features may be located around the outer diameter of the implant.
In another aspect, the invention includes a compass instrument for measurement and surface preparation of the implant target site subsequent sizing of the implant. This compass instrument is configured so that it can be delivered to the site arthroscopically, and when coupled to the axis defined by the guide pin it can be used for measuring and cutting operations.
In another embodiment, the compass instrument consists of a handle, a cannulated shaft that extends through the handle, and a cannulated distal offset arm configured to serve as a linearly adjustable mounting tool for a series of cutting blades, boring blades, or measuring probes.
With the guide pin advanced through the instrument shaft, when fitted with a blade, a fixed length from the rotational or reference axis to the cutting blade's cutting surface is established. This defines the radius that is effected as the instrument is rotated around the guide pin, and corresponds to the overall diameter of the implant. This sharp cutting blade is used to circumscribe and cleanly cut the surrounding articular cartilage.
In another aspect, the invention features a bone cutting or scoring instrument whereby the bone-cutting instrument is positioned on the guide pin reference axis and is used to prepare the target site to match in configuration and dimension the contacting surface of the implant. The matching fit between the bone surfaces of the prepared target site and the bone contacting surfaces of the implant can advantageously ensure Is long term clinical results with the implant, as poor quality of fit between bone surfaces and bone contacting surfaces of traditional orthopedic prosthetic devices has been noted to contribute to early clinical failures.
Following fabrication of the implant, a second surgical procedure is performed. The radiused cover is removed exposing a precision taper (or, alternatively, the cover may be removed during the first procedure). A pin with a distally mounted element is placed through the central lumen of the fixation screw so that the distally mounted element is secured into the screw. This element carries one or more suture strands that now trail from the fixation screw. The sutures are then threaded through the implant and a knot or bead may be created proximal to the implant. By continuing to manipulate and tension the suture strands, the implant can be brought coaxial to the fixation screw. Once coaxial, the implant is aligned via engagement of the keyed elements and driven into place with a plastic driving rod and mallet. Finally, through the guide aperture on the surface of the implant, bone cement may be injected to enhance the contact surface between the implant and the subchondral bone.
In another aspect, the invention further features a driver whereby the implant is connected to the driver via a holder and a tether element, such as a suture or wire. The implant and the driver are then inserted arthroscopically. Tension is then applied to the tether element so that the implant is drawn back and seated on the driver. The implant can then be controllably delivered to the prepared target site. The seat portion of the driver may comprise a material that may be impacted to seat the implant without damaging the implant surface.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
As an overview,
As illustrated in
One or more milled slots 13 run the length of the uniform diameter portion of the screw 10. Slots 13 ensure that as healing or tissue in-growth begins, migrational or rotational movement of the screw is inhibited. The screw 10 is configured to be driven by a female or socket type driver 2 as shown in
Alternatively, as shown in
Also, while many of the components described herein are cannulated, having guide apertures, through holes, and/or central lumina along their length, for disposing such components about a guide rod for proper location of the components with respect to the articular surface, it should be recognized that a suture 313 or other flexible element, or other guide feature may be used in place of a guide rod, or a guide rod or wire may be eliminated altogether from one or more steps consistent with the invention described herein. As shown in
As shown in
In order to secure the implant 40 to the fixation screw 10, precision taper 44 is machined into or onto a protrusion 45 on the top surface 42 of the implant. The precision taper 44 is configured to engage the cylindrical proximal extension 14 of the screw 10, once the hex-shaped cover 30 has been removed therefrom. Taper 44 may be mated with extension 14 so that a friction fit is provided between these surfaces. The assembled fixation device is shown in
As shown in
By way of example,
A drill mechanism 306, as illustrated in
For surface preparation and accurate measurement of the implant site and the subsequent sizing of the implant, instrument 120 is provided. The compass instrument 120 may be configured to serve as a mounting tool for a number of functional blades or tips and when located about the axis 20A, via guide rod 20, may be used for measuring and cutting operations. In the embodiment shown in
Referring to
As illustrated in
In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS, 17a and 17b, blade 123 and measuring probe 122, respectively, may have multiple holes 118 that defines that probe/blade's functional diameter. In addition, the blades may be specifically configured so that staged or sequential cuts of varying depths and diameters can be performed within the procedure. Also, such a blade can be configured by providing a readable scale 119 corresponding to the hole 118 pattern, so that the surgeon may determine and set the appropriate diameter as needed by positioning the guide pin 20 in the corresponding hole. As the readable scale 119 may be located on the blade 123 with respect to the blade's cutting surface 117, a high degree of positional accuracy may be achieved as the scale may be defined specifically for each type of blade. This approach creates an inexpensive means of providing sharp blades of varying diameters and varying blade types without a large inventory of size- and type-specific blades. Referring to
Turning now to
Turning to
For example, as shown in
Locating surfaces or features created on the radius cover 30, or along some length of the fixation screw 10, hex-shaped drive surface of the screw 14 or on the cylindrical proximal extension (or recess) of the screw 14, correlate to some surface or feature on the measuring tool 70 and allow the measurement of the rotational position of the four measured points 81a, 81b, 82 and 82b, about the reference axis 20A with respect to said locating surfaces. This data becomes important in configuring the implant 40 with respect to the fixation screw 10 so that the proper orientation of said measured points to fabricated geometry is maintained. Of course, such measuring tool can be configured to measure any number of points at any interval desired.
While the measurements are illustrated in
Other embodiments of measuring and recording tools are possible. One such embodiment of a measuring and recording tool 210′ is shown in
As shown in
As shown in
Referring now to
Datum curves 86 and 87, representing the medial-lateral ("ML") and anterior-posterior ("AP") curves, are constructed by connecting the end points of the line elements 81a and 81b, and 82a and 82b and the point of origin 80, which is common to both curves. These two datum curves 86 and 87 can be used to construct the articular or bottom surface 41 of the prosthetic implant 40. By sweeping datum curve 87 along a path defined by datum curve 86, a three dimensional surface is now defined.
By constructing this series of geometric relationships in a known parametric engineering model, patient-specific geometry can be input as values and the model algorithm can be run to reproduce the anatomic contours mapped in the patients within only a few moments. As a process, this generic model is the starting point for all patient treatments. Sterile pins, screws, and measuring devices that are all non-patient-specific may be stocked in the hospital and ready to use whenever an appropriate defect is diagnosed. Patient-specific data may be transmitted from the surgeon to the fabricating facility via an interface to the Internet or other network. Data input into the interface may be read directly into the generic parametric model to produce a viewable and even mappable patient-specific parametric model within moments. Confirmation by the surgeon could initiate a work order for the production of the patient specific device. Existing technology allows the parametric model to generate toolpaths and programming, e.g., to a CAD/CAM system comprising appropriate hardware and/or software coupled to appropriate data-driven tools, to fabricate the implant.
Defining two additional datum curves 88 and 89, at offset distances from datum curves 86 and 87, is performed to define the top or non-bearing surface 42 of the implant 40. This top surface 42 should be closely matched to the bearing surface geometry to be implanted without having to remove an excessive quantity of bone from the chondral surface.
Referring to
For example, as shown in
As shown in
However, if a greater depth of implant is needed as a result of the defect appearance the offset curves 88 and 89 (as shown in
With reference now to
In the foregoing exemplary algorithm, a first data point D6 is initially assigned as the maximum value (maxval). If . . . then type statements are used to compare other data points (D11 and D14) to maxval. If other data points are greater than maxval, the algorithm reassigns maxval to the new larger data point. LLMT represents the height of the lower limit plane along the z-axis, and ULMT represents the height of the upper limit plane along the z-axis. D684 is a dimension that controls the ULMT plane, which is established in the model as the upper surface of the implant. ULMT is positioned as maxval plus an additional arbitrary and/or fixed material offset (0.045 in this case).
Referring to
In an alternative embodiment, as shown in
As shown in
Additional data can be taken at the time of the initial procedure, e.g., for fabricating a non-circular implant. Additional data curves can also be defined by measuring the offsets from the reference axis 20A and determining diameters at these offsets. The final implant geometry, although measured using circular techniques, need not be circular.
Referring to
Turning to
If necessary, the arthroscopic wound 200 is expanded slightly in either a vertical or horizontal direction, so that the implant 40 may be passed through. A polymeric sleeve (not shown) positioned over the implant may prove helpful in passing the implant through the incision. As shown in
As shown in
Referring to
Finally, as shown in
Alternatively, guide aperture 46 in the implant 40 may be altogether eliminated by using an alternative implant delivery system, as shown in
As shown in
Further composite implant embodiments are illustrated in
Other materials from which an implant consistent with the invention may be constructed, in whole or in part, include ceramic, e.g. aluminum oxide or zirconium oxide; metal and metal alloys, e.g. Co—Cr—W—Ni, Co—Cr-M, CoCr alloys, CoCr Molybdenum alloys, Cr—Ni—Mn alloys, powder metal alloys, 316L stainless steel, Ti 6Δ1-4V ELI; polymers, e.g., polyurethane, polyethylene (wear resistant and cross-linked), thermoplastic elastomers; biomaterials, e.g. polycaprolactone; and diffusion hardened materials, e.g. Ti-13-13, Zirconium and Niobium. Coatings used may include, e.g., porous coating systems on bone-contacting surfaces, hydrophilic coatings on load-bearing surfaces, hydroxyapatite coatings on bone-contacting surfaces, and tri-calcium phosphate on bone-contacting surfaces. Additionally, components of the invention may be molded or cast, hand-fabricated, or machined.
Alternatively, measurement methods may be utilized whereby radius measurements are taken with respect to an axis AA corresponding to an axis about the point of origin in the implant to be used (as shown in
It is noted that, although the invention is herein described as utilizing a single reference axis, multiple reference axes may be used for measuring, mapping, or cutting a single defect or an articular surface having multiple defects, as well as for fabricating a single implant, or multiple implants for a single articular surface, consistent with the invention. In other embodiments, methods for mapping the defect and/or articular surface other than those described hereinabove are possible, e.g., MRI or CT scanning.
It is further noted that, although the invention is described herein as utilizing the specific geometry of a patient's articular surface to fabricate an implant for that patient, it is contemplated that data from a plurality of patients may be analyzed statistically and utilized in fabricating and/or manufacturing (e.g. in large quantities) one or more universal, generic, or standard supply item type implants for medical practitioners to use in a procedure consistent with the invention. For such implants, as well as for patient-specific implants as described herein, pre- or post-implantation trimming may be required to correct for minor variations that may occur as between the implant and the subchondral bone (or other articular surface).
It should be understood that, although the various tools described hereinabove, e.g., for measuring, cutting, and seating, are described as separate devices, a single handle, shaft and/or instrument may be configured to serve as a universal mounting tool for a series of devices for performing various functions consistent with the invention.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is subject to other modifications and/or alterations, all of which are deemed within the scope of the present invention, as defined in the hereinafter appended claims.
1. A depth positioning system comprising:
- a first element having a positional reference relative to an articular surface;
- a second element capable of indicating said positional reference of said first element relative to said articular surface.
2. A depth positioning system according to claim 1, wherein said second element is capable of contacting said first element to indicate said positional reference of said first element relative to said articular surface.
3. A depth positioning system according to claim 1, wherein said first element provides a reference axis and a reference surface relative to said articular surface.
4. A depth positioning system according to claim 1, wherein said first element is capable of being installed at varying depths relative to said articular surface.
5. The depth positioning system according to claim 4, wherein said first element comprises a screw capable of threadably engaging said articular surface.
6. The depth positioning system according to claim 1, wherein said second element is capable of being coupled to said first element for providing a predetermined positional relationship between said first element and said second element.
7. The depth positioning system according to claim 1, wherein said first element comprises a mating feature capable or being coupled to an implant for installation of said implant into said articular surface.
8. A method of locating a fixation element comprising:
- installing a first element into an articular surface; and
- contacting a second element to said first element, said second element indicating a positional relationship of said first element relative to said articular surface, said second element having a proximal end.
9. A method according to claim 8, wherein contacting said second element to said first element comprises disposing at least a portion of said second element in a corresponding recess in said first element.
10. The method according to claim 8, further comprising adjusting the depth of said first element relative to said articular surface to locate said proximal end of said second element at a position relative to said articular surface.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the depth of said first element is adjusted to position said proximal end of said second element tangent to at least one radius defining said articular surface.
12. The method according to claim 10, wherein said proximal end of said second element extends a predetermined height relative to a cooperating feature of said first element, the method further comprising excising a region of said articular surface adjacent said first element to a predetermined depth relative to said cooperating feature of said first element.
13. The method according to claim 8, wherein said proximal end of said second element provides a reference point for at least one of: depth positioning said first element, excising said articular surface, and locating an implant.
14. The method according to claim 10, wherein adjusting the depth of said first element comprises arthroscopically examining a position of said proximal end of said second element relative to said articular surface.
15. The method according to claim 10, wherein adjusting the depth of said first element comprises articulating a joint comprising said articular surface to verify a position of said radiused proximal end of said depth positioning insert relative to a second articular surface.
16. A method of locating a fixation element comprising:
- providing a first element configured to coupled to an implant;
- installing said first element into an articular surface; and
- ascertaining a position of said first element relative to said articular surface.
17. A method according to claim 16, further comprising adjusting a position of said first element relative to said articular surface.
18. A method according to claim 17, wherein said first element comprises a threaded feature and adjusting said position comprises threadably adjusting the position of said first element.
19. A method according to claim 16, wherein ascertaining said position of said first element comprises contacting said first element with a second element and evaluating a position of said second element with respect to said articular surface.
20. A method according to claim 16, wherein ascertaining said position of said first element comprises visually inspecting said position with respect to said articular surface.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 18, 2006
Publication Date: Aug 24, 2006
Patent Grant number: 7604641
Applicant: Arthrosurface, Inc. (Franklin, MA)
Inventors: Steven Tallarida (Mansfield, MA), Steven Ek (Bolton, MA)
Application Number: 11/379,151
International Classification: A61B 17/60 (20060101);


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The reason for posting this is that the core is the link between the lower and upper body. If it's a weak link, performance will suffer despite any other training. Think swimming – what turns your chest on edge while breathing and back again, your core. Running, what stabilizes your back, your core. It's important and should not be overlooked.
This excerpt is from the book, Delavier's Core Training Anatomy. It's published with permission of Human Kinetics. Purchase this book from Human Kinetics and help keep MyTriathlonTraining.com in business!
Set your goals.
The very first step in creating your core workout program is to be specific when defining your goals. Are you working out for these reasons?
- To get a six-pack
- To get a slimmer waist
- To maintain your cardiovascular health
- and fitness
- To increase your athletic performance
Often, your goals may be a combination of several of the items listed. However, if you do not define your goals well, it will be difficult to establish an optimal program. Write down your goals on paper so that you can read them before every workout.
Then, you need to quantify your goals. For example, I want to
- be able to see my abs in 3 months,
- lose 2 inches off my waist in 2 months, and
- double the number of sets I can do in 10 minutes to increase my endurance within 15 days.
The time frame and amount of progress for your goals must be realistic. Keep in mind that no one ever progresses as fast as desired. You might often feel that you have hit a plateau. But with a good program, a true plateau is rare. By quantifying your goals and creating monthly milestones, you will more easily be able to gauge your progress. Each step you achieve will serve as motivation to continue exercising. We provide some typical programs in Continue reading

subset: commoncrawl


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We may earn commission from companies mentioned on this blog, however our praise cannot be bought!
Driving in Europe can be a scary experience for those not used to it. For a start, the cars are all on the 'wrong' side of the road. Different countries have different rules, regulations and toll systems and some of them take quite a bit of working out. Here are a few helpful tips to make your driving experience in Portugal a little less stressful, so that you can enjoy your time here more.
General advice
It seems as though half of the drivers in Portugal are patient and courteous, particularly in small towns. You can stop in a street to let someone into or out of the car and people will wait patiently behind you for a minute or so without beeping. The other half of the drivers here seem to be in a desperate hurry to get wherever they are going and will happily overtake at high speed on blind bends.
The EN125, which runs the length of the Algarve, has long been hailed as one of the most dangerous roads in Europe – it was once known as the 'road of death.' I have been overtaken dangerously on it on many occasions since living here, by cars, vans and even a coach. On the most notable occasion, a car overtook me directly into oncoming traffic, despite the fact that I was already driving at the speed limit. Both I and the oncoming car had to swerve hard to avoid a nasty collision. Keep your wits about you when using this road.
One thing that can seem unnerving when driving in Portugal is how closely cars will drive behind you. The concept of leaving a safe braking distance is not something that seems to be cherished here. Drivers will happily sit so closely behind you that they appear to be mere inches from your back bumper. It can be unsettling when a car does this and terrifying when an HGV does it, but it's not intended to intimidate – it's just the way things are done here.
Licences and insurance
You can drive in Portugal with a driving licence from an EU country. If you have a non-EU licence then you may need an international driving licence before you can legally drive here. If you are bringing your own car, make sure you have insurance that covers you to drive in Portugal (and any other countries you might drive through to get here). If you're hiring a car, I would highly recommend purchasing as much insurance as is available through your hire car company. Both us and our guests have had mishaps in hire cars that would have been costly had we not purchased the additional insurance options available.
Be sure to carry your licence, vehicle registration documents, passport, insurance documents and any rental agreement in your car whenever you drive. Older style (green) UK licences are valid, but the AA recommends voluntarily upgrading to the newer photocard licence before you drive in Portugal, as these are more widely understood and accepted.
If you've moved to Portugal and are driving on a UK driving licence, you need to present yourself to the authorities and register your licence to your Portuguese address within 30 days of obtaining your Portuguese residency certificate. This is done at the IMTT, which is Portugal's equivalent of the DVLA (well, sort of – the IMTT's remit is actually wider than that of the DVLA). The IMTT's website includes a list of its locations, so you can find the one nearest to you. (The site can be viewed in English, but is limited to three pages – if you want to see the rest of it you will need to view the Portuguese version.)
It is important to ensure that you visit the IMTT and fill out your paperwork within the required time. It is a requirement to do so under Portuguese law and you can be fined if you don't do it. It also avoids the problem of you living at an address which is different from that on your UK licence, which is an offence in England. Once you have the completed form from the IMTT confirming your Portuguese address, keep it with your driving licence at all times.
It is possible for residents to exchange their UK licence for a Portuguese one should they wish. This is done at the IMTT as well.
Speed limits
Although there are obviously variations across Portugal, speed limits are generally 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on main roads and 50 km/h in towns.
Drinking and driving
The permissible alcohol limit in Portugal is lower than in the UK, at 0.5 mg per ml (or 0.05%). This is so low that the best advice is simply not to drink at all if you will be driving. Penalties for drink driving can be harsh. Despite this, drink driving is still in evidence in many parts of the country, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. A national campaign is underway in order to try and stamp out this practice.
Portugal has a number of toll roads, which are in good condition and generally quiet and pleasant to cruise along. Most have two payment systems – cash/cards or an electronic transponder that fits on the inside of your windscreen. The transponder can help you to beat the queues at the tolls, as there is generally less traffic in that lane than in the cash lanes.
A number of toll roads operate an electronic toll system, so have no cash booths. To travel on these roads, you need to comply with the payment requirements of the company that manages the road. A good summary of these is available on the Visit Portugal website.
Toll charges can be quite expensive. It costs around €10 to drive from the western end of the Algarve to Spain and about €20 to drive from the Algarve to Lisbon. With petrol being expensive in Portugal, driving excursions can end up costing quite a lot with the tolls added in, but if you've tried the bumpy alternatives to the motorways for any long distance, I'm sure you'll agree the cost of the tolls is well worth it.
I will refrain from joining in any debate regarding the implementation of tolls on the Algarve's A22 motorway. There's plenty online about it if you are interested!
Vehicle requirements
As well as the standard requirements of ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy and so forth, Portugal requires you to carry a number of items in your car. These include a high visibility jacket (which must be accessible without you having to leave the vehicle), a spare set of bulbs and a reflective warning triangle. It is compulsory to use your high visibility jacket and warning triangle in the event of an accident or breakdown.
Having a First Aid kit in the car is suggested, but not compulsory. It is also recommended that you carry a spare pair of glasses with you while driving. Having lost my sole pair of glasses in the sea while on holiday in Spain, I can attest to the sense of this advice!
Child safety
Children shorter than 1.50m and under 12 years old must travel in the back of the vehicle and use a restraint system appropriate to their age/size. Children under three years old can travel in the front seat if an appropriate restraint system is used. Please note that if the restraint system involves a rear-facing seat, the airbag must be switched off.
Driving age
You have to be 18 to drive in Portugal. Although in the UK you can legally drive from age 17, and you can drive in Portugal on a UK licence, you might have a hard time explaining that (in Portuguese) if you are pulled over for any reason. It may be best to wait until you are 18 before driving in Portugal on a UK licence.
You will often see Portuguese vehicles, including lorries and coaches, parked on roundabouts. I am unclear as to why this is. It is not legal and you should not do it!
Dealing with the police
If you are pulled over while driving for any reason, be polite and respectful when dealing with the authorities. If you are fined for anything, the payment must be made immediately, either in cash or using the portable credit card machine that most police cars carry. If you refuse to pay, the police can take your driving licence and registration document. They should give you a receipt for these and tell you where and when you can collect them. If you refuse to hand over your documents, the police have the power to confiscate your vehicle.
It is compulsory to use your headlights at night, when driving in tunnels, and in poor visibility during the day. Non-compliance with this may result in a fine.
Seat belts
It is compulsory for all passengers to wear seatbelts and it is the driver's responsibility to ensure that they do. If you are pulled over and one or more passengers is not wearing a seatbelt, it is the driver who will pay the fine.
Although the above is correct at time of writing, please note that rules and regulations do change from time to time, so be sure you have the latest information to hand before driving in Europe. Safe travels 🙂
For more helpful hints and advice on all things Portuguese, why not check out our book: Moving to Portugal: How a young couple started a new life in the sun – and how you could do the same
Image credits: Pixabay, Fotopedia, Dennis Mojado


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Casinos have been a place of luck, fortune, money and fun. While many around the world play with real money to win even bigger money, there are hundreds and thousands of bettors out there who play free online casino gamesonly for fun. They prefer going to the websites that don't require any signup or any kind of up front deposit. The advancements in the online casino world have further encouraged many bettors to log on casino websites and try their hands on free games. Sitting right in the comfort of your home in UK you can log on to any online casino games UK website and go on a fun trip.
These online casino games are also called as Internet casino games or virtual casino games and the number of bettors playing these games is always on the rise. Earlier the only option was to go to a physical casino for playing a casino game, but thanks to advancements in Internet world one can have the same level of fun and experience sitting in their homes or offices. When you think of physical casinos you get an idea of those casino machines and tables in start hotels and clubs and of course luxury cruises. Quality of games at these casinos is obviously far better than other casino places.
In order to play free casino games online at times it is needed to download the required software. Usually online casino games either purchase or lease such software to offer their users a gaming experience that is exactly similar to what they get at physical casinos. Many UK online casino games websites run on these software only. But in most cases these software are not sufficient as they also need a random number generator, which makes sure that the cars, numbers and dice appear randomly when needed. Only a random number generator can give the actual feel of playing real casino games.
Today, to play free casino games no deposit you don't need to break a sweat as there are thousands of websites that offer you plug and play experience when they log on to them to play casino games online. There are different types of online casinos that can be broadly classified in three categories. They are download casinos, live casinos and web-based casinos. In the first option, you need to download a software and then play the game. This gives the fastest experience of playing a casino game online. The next option is obviously a more interactive one in which you normally play with real money with real bettors who are also logged in from their respective systems. The last one is a type of online casino game, which is the simplest one in which you don't need to download anything.
The new online bettors who want to make money playing casino games online should first start with free online casino games no deposit versions and practice the game without risking any money. The ones who want to play free online casino games for fun should also look for such websites that don't require any type of deposit up front. But whether you play for real money or you play free casino games for fun enough practice beforehand always pays.


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Discovering Sufganiyot — Hanukkah Doughnuts
To most Jews in North America, latkes mean Hanukkah, but to Israelis, sufganiyot say Hanukkah even more than levivot, the Hebrew word for latkes. Soofganiyot are light doughnuts without holes. They are made plain or filled with jelly. In Israel on Hanukkah, they are everywhere. You can buy fresh ones at bakeries, supermarkets, and even tiny corner grocery stores throughout Israel. In recent years, soofganiyot have become popular in the United States and can be found at American Jewish bakeries during Hanukkah.
Because soofganiyot are fried in oil, they commemorate the Hanukkah miracle just as well as latkes. Of course, plenty of people enjoy both!
Bakery doughnuts are made from yeast-leavened dough. Some home cooks prefer to make easier, faster versions using baking powder.
Soofganiyot probably came to Israel with the immigration of Jews from central Europe. This type of doughnut can be found from Alsace in France to Germany, Austria, Hungary, and other nearby countries.
Hot oil can be a fire hazard and can cause severe burns. To avoid any problems, be sure to observe these points:
Fill the saucepan up to halfway with oil. Don't add more, or it may boil over when you add the food.
Hold the food near the oil's surface and put it in gently. Don't drop the food from high above the oil, or the hot oil may splash on you.
As you add the food, the oil will bubble vigorously. Never crowd the pan so the oil will not come up too high.
Regulate the heat as needed to keep the oil at the right temperature.
Give frying your full attention. Never leave the pan unattended, even for a moment.
If possible, keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.


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Supermodel Tyra Banks is slated to teach a class at Stanford University next spring.
It remains to be seen whether smiling with the eyes – a phrase she coined as a host of America's Next Top Model on the CW Network – will be part of the Graduate School of Business class curriculum.
Banks, 42, will, however, team up with professor Allison Kluger for the spring elective titled "Project You: Building & Extending Your Personal Brand." In 2011, the businesswoman earned a Harvard Business School diploma in a nine-week-long Owner/President Management program.
The chairman of Tyra Banks Co. and founder of Fierce Capital, LLC was spotted at the Palo Alto school last month. According to Stanford, the Inglewood native discussed the importance of hiring the right people, making cold calls, and knowing when to pivot, as part of the university's Women in Business series.
Banks and Kluger met at the discussion and decided to team up, the Mercury News said.
"For the first 30 minutes of the class, I'm raising my hand, I'm all into it, 'cause it's kind of like theory and just like, the social part of the case," Banks told VH1, the newspaper reported. "The last hour it's all like Einstein and algebraic equations and craziness.
"And I'm just like, what the (heck) is going on? Please don't call on me because it won't be pretty."


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Oh my gosh!
This here is an Instagram video AC Milan star Mario Balotelli posted. In it, he's reading I Am Zlatan while ironing his shirt, shirtless, and dancing to Biggie. Then there's the payoff: he looks up at the camera, does the most adorable little shimmy, then flashes a playful, slightly self-conscious smile, and man, my heart just exploded.


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United Tribes Leader to Focus on New Challenges
BISMARCK – The long-time leader of United Tribes Technical College is stepping into a new role with the college to focus on the challenges of growth and development
The United Tribes of North Dakota board has tapped Dr. David M. Gipp to secure the future for one of the nation's leading tribal colleges. The board named him United Tribes Chancellor at a meeting January 21 at the college in Bismarck.
"With upwards of 1,200 students annually and over 350 employees, this is a large and successful organization," said Tex G. "Red Tipped Arrow" Hall, chair of the United Tribes Board. "But it's a new day when it comes to funding because of the shortfalls and cutbacks of the federal government. And with the ever-expanding vision of what we need to accomplish through tribal higher education, it's very important that the college continue moving forward."
Gipp has been president and CEO of United Tribes for nearly 37 years, making him one of the longest-serving college presidents in the country. In the new role of chancellor, he will pursue resource planning and acquisition for the institutional growth and development of the college and its associated tribal programs.
Gipp has long been recognized as a national leader for helping initiate and develop the legislation and organizations that serve American Indian higher education. Under his leadership United Tribes has grown remarkably in its educational programs and campus facilities. The college now operates a distance education and site-based educational facility in Rapid City, SD known as the Black Hills Learning Center. The college's accreditation is secure through 2021. And students are being prepped for jobs in the region's energy industry through a series of federally-funded workforce training programs.
"I'm looking forward to this challenge," said Gipp. "The tribes, tribal colleges and all tribal entities are in a time of declining support from federal funding sources. The second fiscal year of cuts from the sequestration compounded the difficulty. It certainly doesn't make sense to run government that way from our point of view, let alone meeting historical commitments made in the treaties. But it leaves us with the challenge of cultivating stable and reliable alternatives, so we can not only maintain but expand services. And that's what this is about."
The United Tribes board selected Dr. Phil Baird to succeed Gipp as interim United Tribes President. Baird was the college's Vice President of Academic, Career and Technical Education. He has served United Tribes for over 22 years and will be tasked with the administration of the college. He is president of the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Action Steps
Addressing immediate concerns, the United Tribes board passed two resolutions urging Congressional action on funding for American Indian programs. The board called for the restoration of cuts made through sequestration to all Indian programs for the years FY 2013 and 2014 and including the upcoming FY 2015 budget. The group also called for action to prevent excessive cuts to United Tribes in the Carl Perkins Career and Technical Education Act.
In passing the resolutions, the board emphasized that sequestration has had serious consequences. To address the challenge, tribal leaders pledge to work with the new chancellor, who has significant experience and background in advocating for tribes and tribal colleges.
"We need to bring focus to this and the college's endowment fund," said Hall. "We wanted to take steps that would help us meet the challenge of what's coming. We feel it's a good beginning to allow Dr. Gipp to focus just on that, to make that happen
United Tribes is governed by the five tribes located in North Dakota: Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, Spirit Lake Tribe, Standing Rock Tribe, Three Affiliated Tribes of the Mandan/Hidatsa/Arikara Nation and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa.


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Story highlights
- Prosecutors try to counter Bradley Manning's claims of abuse in confinement
- The hearing focuses on Manning's time in the military brig at Quantico, Virginia
- Defense wants case dismissed on grounds that Manning's confinement was harsh
- The Army private is accused of stealing thousands of classified documents
Prosecutors tried to establish Friday that Army private Bradley Manning -- charged in the largest leak of classified material in U.S. history -- missed multiple opportunities to complain about the mistreatment he's alleging he suffered in military custody.
While cross-examining Manning at a pre-trial hearing at Ft. Meade, Maryland, prosecutor Maj. Ashden Fein asserted that records of weekly visits Manning had with unit officers during nine months of detention at Quantico, Virginia, show no complaints about his treatment.
The cross-examination -- during a hearing on a defense motion to have Manning's case dismissed on grounds that his confinement has been harsh and has amounted to enough punishment -- came a day after Manning testified that he had considered suicide while in custody.
The Army intelligence analyst, arrested in June 2010, is accused of stealing thousands of classified documents while serving in Iraq. The material was then published online by WikiLeaks. WikiLeaks has never confirmed that Manning was the source of its information.
In Friday's hearing, Fein reviewed with Manning the forms that officers filled out after meeting with Manning during his detention at Quantico's brig, where he was held under a heightened confinement status from July 2010 to April 2011.
Officers would ask Manning questions and write down his responses. When Fein asked about the forms Friday, Manning acknowledged that he rated treatment by his guards as "excellent" and treatment by the facility overall as "very professional."
The forms show no complaints of mistreatment, even though the officers asked Manning directly about his treatment, Fein contended.
Manning responded that he would verbally express concern about issues and that the visiting officers would talk through the concerns and indicate that they would be addressed, but they didn't record the issues.
"They would write down 'no issues' (after discussing the concerns), and it didn't necessarily mean I didn't bring something up," Manning said.
The judge, Army Col. Denise Lind, also asked Manning why he didn't complain about his treatment during a January 2011 meeting with a board examining the suicidal thoughts he expressed in a form months earlier.
Manning replied that his intention during that meeting was to get his "prevention of injury" status downgraded. The military said they put him on this restrictive status -- a step below suicide watch -- for his protection and the safety of others.
"I wanted staff to know I was fine, and (I wanted to) get off the POI status ... to enjoy an increased quality of life from my viewpoint," Manning said.
Manning testified Thursday about his arrest in Iraq and his transfer to Kuwait, where he was held for nearly two months before being transferred to the brig at Marine Base Quantico in Virginia in July 2010.
He said he contemplated suicide in Kuwait and once passed out there due to the heat. He said not being allowed to know what was happening to him or in the outside world was distressing.
"My world just shrink to Camp Arafjon, to that cage," Manning said Thursday. "I thought I was going to die in that cage.
Once at Quantico, Manning said, he spend most days in a small cell -- at least 21 hours and often more than 23 hours -- with no company. Manning said he was allowed only a mattress, blanket, flip-flops, some clothes and his glasses. He said he tried to keep moving, because sleeping during the day or even lying down was against the rules.
Manning said he always slept with light from outside his cell in his eyes. If guards could not see his face when he rolled over at night, he said they would wake him to roll back over.
Manning's lawyer filed a formal objection to Manning's treatment in January 2011. Manning was moved to the military prison at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, in April 2011.
Also Friday, the judge asked Manning about an allegation that he made in Thursday's testimony -- that after being forced to sleep naked one night in his Quantico cell, he was forced to stand naked in front of guards and other inmates during a morning head count.
Manning had testified that he was never given a chance to cover himself with his blanket during the head count. Under questioning from the judge Friday, Manning said that he inferred from his guard's order that he should drop a blanket that could have covered him, but he acknowledged that no one had ordered him to drop it.
Manning testified Thursday that he was forced to sleep naked the previous night because of his attempt to show an officer that he wasn't a danger to himself. Manning said that he told the officer that he could have used the waistband of his underwear or his flip-flops to hurt himself but hadn't done so.
That night, Manning testified, his underwear, flip-flops and glasses were removed from his cell.
His lawyers hope the judge will at least take his experiences during confinement into account and sharply reduce his sentence should he be convicted at his court-martial, which is expected to begin early next year.
The defense has said it plans to have Manning plead guilty to lesser offenses and fight other charges as being too extreme.
The hearing is scheduled to resume this weekend, with prosecutors expected to argue that the detention conditions were warranted. The Pentagon has maintained that Manning was held in accordance with rules governing all maximum-custody detainees at Quantico.
Counts against Manning include aiding the enemy, wrongfully causing intelligence to be published on the Internet, transmitting national defense information and theft of public property or records.
If he's convicted on all counts, he could face a life sentence.


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[Update] Details From Comic Con's Mass Effect Panel
Update: Along with the details outlined below, there were a few other details resulting from Comic Con's Mass Effect panel. BioWare confirmed the player character will be human and not one of the many races featured in the game's universe and it's possible the game could occur during Shepard's lifetime. BioWare has confirmed previously, however, that the new Mass Effect will have no connection to Shepard.
Exploration will apparently serve a much larger role throughout the game, and the Mako, has re-emerged as an important component of the game, though we will have to wait and see how much.
BioWare said that everything shown during the panel has the potential to change before the game's release, which is likely still years away.
Original story:
BioWare's San Diego Comic Con panel "Charting a Course: Developing the Next Mass Effect" is underway, and a few details have trickled out onto Twitter. The panelists are a mix of developers from Bioware's Edmonton and Montreal Studios. Carl Boulay (lead animator), Mike Gamble (producer), Noel Lukasewich (senior artist), Fabrice Condominas (producer), and Jessica Merizan (community manager) are giving fans in attendance a few new details, including a first look at the new Mako in action.
Twitter user Nerd Appropriate, snapped a few shots during the panel (pictured above and below) which show the Mako and various angles of the new N7 armor. Twitter user SuperNerdMe also snapped a shot of male and female hero models (which you can see below).
Game Informer's Kyle Hilliard is at Comic Con, and will give his report on the panel later, should anything news worthy come from it.
[Via: Escapist]


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.Case studies
During the first two years of the project the eLene2learn network collected more than 60 case studies, where teachers and students of Secondary and Higher Education provide practical tips and indications on their "first hand" learning experiences using ICT and digital media. This "collection" contains two different types of report:
- The "How to guide" scenarios describe current practices, tools and methodologies used in the application of ICT to develop learning to learn competencies. The scenarios were collected through Focus Group with students and teachers; Download the printable version of the "How to guide"
- The Case studies report, in detail the implementation of practices, methodologies and tools used within real classroom settings. Recommendations and suggestions help you assess the benefit of replicating these practices, methodologies, etc. in your own context. These resources are highly valuable as they come from a direct evaluation by students and teachers involved. Some of these resources are (also) partly available in Italian, French, Greek, Finnish, Polish, Spanish and German. If the translations are available, you can find the translations directly on the sub-pages of each case study. (The most recent Case Studies are listed first on the top); Download the printable version of the Implementation Report.
You can browse the case studies here by Benefits and Tags. The two different type of report can be easily filtered using corresponding tags.
For restoring your filters to the default (blank) settings, just click on the pink button "CLEAR".
by eLene2learn Network, these contents are licensed unser Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License
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Content with Didactical benefits to develop methodological competences.
Strategic Management - Collaborative note taking
Collaborative note taking Online comments on presentations given by other students Document revision and presentation
Video of methods to learn
To support pupils in the transition from SE to HE by using video on "methods to learn"
Enhancing self-knowledge, self-regulation and collaborative learning skills with IQ Form system
Description of encouraging HE students to self-assess their learning strategies (self-evaluation questionnaires) and to develop their learning strategies utilizing IQ Form system's tutorial sets and...


text: Enjoy Umbria and its magnificent territory. Pamper yourself with sheer wellness in a spa of excellence. Relax in the pleasures of fine hospitality and dine on gourmet cuisine in an elegant restaurant. You can have all of this at the Roccafiore, the Country Chic Spa Resort in Umbria where style, tradition and comfort blend together in a harmony created by experience and passion.


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Autry Technology Center 1201 W Willow Enid, OK 73703 Phone: (580) 242-2750
General Information About Autry Technology Center
Align resources, people, knowledge, skills and opportunity to build self-worth and ensure economic prosperity in Oklahoma and beyond.
Institutional statistical data was gathered from the U.S. Department of Education - Institute of Education Sciences, National Center for Education Statistics, 2009-2010.
Institution Type
- 2-year, Public
Special Learning Opportunities
- Distance learning opportunities
Student Services
- General Education Courses
- Career Services available upon completion
Credit Accepted
- Institution does not accept dual, credit for life, or AP credits
Religious Affiliation
- Not applicable
Federal Aid
- Eligible students may receive Pell Grants and other federal aid (e.g. Direct Loans).
Degrees/Certificates offered
- Less than 1 year certificate
- 1-2 years certificate
- 2-4 years certificate
Campus Setting
- Town: Remote
Disability Services Student
- 3% or Less
Admission Total Applicants 107 Percent Admitted 100% Men Admitted 100% Women Admitted 100% Full Time Retention Rate 61%
Student Demographics Total Enrolled 656 Native American 24.0 Asian 15.0 African American 29.0 Hispanic 41.0 Enrolled FullTime Undergraduates 142 Enrolled FullTime Graduates


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Just wanted you to know
I just wanted you to know,
how proud I am of you.
Even if it doesn't show,
my feelings are so true.
I know things got really tough,
your faith passed the test.
I do believe it was most rough,
when you laid your friend to rest.
I will say one thing real loud,
a feeling that is true.
I am very, very proud,
of my soldier which is you.
Jennifer Starr Brown