Abstract: A biological therapeutic delivery device is provided. In one preferred embodiment, the invention includes a device for effectuating localized tissue injury comprised of a resorbable body having at least one therapeutic agent and a retention device to anchor the agent within a tissue, the therapeutic agent being released into the tissue as the body resorbs. In an additional preferred embodiment, the invention includes a device for effectuating localized tissue injury comprised of a resorbable body having a cavity containing a therapeutic agent and a series of projections extending from the body to anchor the body in a tissue, the therapeutic agent being released into the tissue as the body resorbs.

Abstract: A method and a system for a spinal fixation incorporate a plurality of polydirectional fixation screws and a plurality of linkages. The polydirectional fixation screws include an upper member and a lower member. The upper member is attached to the linkage. The upper member includes a first hemispherical portion. The lower member engages the bone and includes a second hemispherical portion which cooperates with the first hemispherical portion to define a sphere. The second hemispherical portion is coupled to the first hemispherical portion for relative pivotal movement about an axis. Relative movement between the first and second hemispherical portions readily permits sagittal plane adjustments. The polydirectional fixation screw further includes a biasing member for biasing the first member away from the second member in a direction substantially parallel to the axis. The linkages are provided with various vertical offsets to readily permit coronal plane adjustment.

Abstract: A method and a system for a spinal fixation incorporate a plurality of polydirectional fixation screws and a plurality of linkages. The polydirectional fixation screws include an upper member and a lower member. The upper member is attached to the linkage. The upper member includes a first hemispherical portion. The lower member engages the bone and includes a second hemispherical portion which cooperates with the first hemispherical portion to define a sphere. The second hemispherical portion is coupled to the first hemispherical portion for relative pivotal movement about an axis. Relative movement between the first and second hemispherical portions readily permits sagittal plane adjustments. The polydirectional fixation screw further includes a biasing member for biasing the first member away from the second member in a direction substantially parallel to the axis. The linkages are provided with various vertical offsets to readily permit coronal plane adjustment.

Abstract: A prosthesis having a porous polymeric coating over a non-porous polymeric substrate is disclosed. The porous polymeric coating is constructed by forming a mass of randomly arranged fibers of polymeric material in contact with a non-porous polymeric substrate of a compatible material. The entire prosthesis and mass of fibers is enclosed in a mold with interior dimensions conforming to the intended shape of the article. The mold is then subjected to an elevated temperature for sufficient time to sinter the fibers of the mass to each other and to the underlying substrate yet leave a pore volume of about 50%. The preformed material is ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. Preferred sintering conditions are also disclosed.