Abstract: Extruded thermoplastic members, particularly structural members, are reinforced by longitudinally extending pre-stressed elements, such as filaments or matting. The elements, while under tension, are drawn into an extrusion crosshead die forming the thermoplasatic member. The elements are fully imbedded within the thermoplastic material while under tension and curing of the thermoplastic material, and final curing of the tensioned reinforcing elements, if a thermosetting resin impregnated element is used, occurs while the elements are under tension, the material of the member and the elements intimately bond and the tension forces within the elements reinforce the member at the desired locations. The forming of the reinforced member is a continuous operation.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a method and apparatus for enhancing the depth of the acetabulum to improve the containment of the femoral head, and the concepts of the invention are employed to correct an unstable hip joint, particularly as occurs with children. A synthetic extracapsular curvalinear prosthesis is affixed to the ilium by fasteners and the prosthesis includes a concave surface corresponding to the configuration of the acetabular socket wherein the prosthesis increases the depth of the acetabulum without disturbing the existing anatomy.