The present invention provides an implantable joint prosthesis configured
to replace a natural joint, and methods for implantation. The prosthesis
may include a first component implantable in a first bone, having a first
bearing surface, and a second component implantable in a second bone,
having a second bearing surface which corresponds to the first bearing
surface. Each bearing surface may include a flattened section such that
when the bearing surfaces are placed in cooperation with one another in a
preferred orientation, the flattened sections are aligned. Alternatively,
the bearing surfaces may have and asymmetric configuration, with
non-congruent surfaces that may enable correction of deformity. Several
types of implantable joint prostheses are disclosed, including:
carpometacarpal, metacarpophalangeal, metatarsophalangeal, distal
interphalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, ankle, knee, shoulder, and
hip.