Abstract: A braided, rather than woven, three-dimensional matrix has been developed to provide mechanical support in breast reconstruction or a mastopexy procedure. The braided three-dimensional matrix may be used to assist in hernia repair procedures. The matrix is a supple, strong, and flexible material, that can increase 50% to 100% in size when stretched along the vertical plane, but only extends by about 10% to 20% in length when stretched along the horizontal plane. Although the matrix is degradable, it provides sufficient mechanical and structural support for six to twelve months following implantation to allow for repair or growth of the breast tissue or the abdominal wall. The matrix is formed of three-dimensional braided multifilament polymeric fibers plied to create yarn bundles, and wherein the matrix comprises an inter-connected, open pore structure that enables even and random distribution and in-growth of cells.

Abstract: A multi-region device for repair, regeneration or reconstruction in articular tissue injury such as torn ligaments and tendons is provided. The device comprises at least one degradable material and biocompatible non-degradable polymeric fiber-based material, in a three-dimensional braided scaffold. The two end sections are designed for attachment of the device at the site of implantation and are designed to allow bone cell ingrowth, and one or more middle regions are designed to allow ligament or tendon cell ingrowth.

Abstract: A multi-region device for repair, regeneration or reconstruction in articular tissue injury such as torn ligaments and tendons is provided. The device comprises at least one degradable material and biocompatible non-degradable polymeric fiber-based material, in a three-dimensional braided scaffold. The two end sections are designed for attachment of the device at the site of implantation and are designed to allow bone cell ingrowth, and one or more middle regions are designed to allow ligament or tendon cell ingrowth.

Abstract: A multi-region device for repair, regeneration or reconstruction in articular tissue injury such as torn ligaments and tendons is provided. The device comprises at least one degradable material and biocompatible non-degradable polymeric fiber-based material, in a three-dimensional braided scaffold. The two end sections are designed for attachment of the device at the site of implantation and are designed to allow bone cell ingrowth, and one or more middle regions are designed to allow ligament or tendon cell ingrowth.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel silk-fiber-based matrix having a wire-rope geometry for use in producing a ligament or tendon, particularly an anterior cruciate ligament, ex vivo for implantation into a recipient in need thereof. The invention further provides the novel silk-fiber-based matrix which is seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form a ligament or tendon ex vivo. Also disclosed is a bioengineered ligament comprising the silk-fiber-based matrix seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form the ligament or tendon. A method for producing a ligament or tendon ex vivo comprising the novel silk-fiber-based matrix is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel silk-fiber-based matrix having a wire-rope geometry for use in producing a ligament or tendon, particularly an anterior cruciate ligament, ex vivo for implantation into a recipient in need thereof. The invention further provides the novel silk-fiber-based matrix which is seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form a ligament or tendon ex vivo. Also disclosed is a bioengineered ligament comprising the silk-fiber-based matrix seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form the ligament or tendon. A method for producing a ligament or tendon ex vivo comprising the novel silk-fiber-based matrix is also disclosed.

Abstract: Silk is purified to eliminate immunogenic components (particularly sericin) and is used to form fabric that is used to form tissue-supporting prosthetic devices for implantation. The fabrics can carry functional groups, drugs, and other biological reagents. Applications include hernia repair, tissue wall reconstruction, and organ support, such as bladder slings. The silk fibers are arranged in parallel and, optionally, intertwined (e.g., twisted) to form a construct; sericin may be extracted at any point during the formation of the fabric, leaving a construct of silk fibroin fibers having excellent tensile strength and other mechanical properties.