Abstract: Methods for forming an integral porous region in an orthopedic implant are provided. The method uses an orthopedic implant pattern, together with a porous framework having a plurality of reticulated interstices in a molding technique. After filling the mold with a molten metal such that the molten metal enters at least a portion of the reticulated interstices, followed by cooling, an orthopedic implant is formed. The porous framework is then removed to expose an integral porous region of reticulated porosity in the implant. The orthopedic implant may comprise a monolithic metallic body having an integral porous metal region. Reticulated porosity extends into the monolithic metallic body and is adapted to allow living tissue growth therein.

Abstract: Methods for cleaning and sterilizing devices, such as medical implants and prosthesis, surgical instruments and laboratory equipment. A method of the present invention includes the steps of placing the devices in a chamber of a furnace, evacuating the chamber of the furnace, heating the chamber of the furnace to a depyrogenation temperature, maintaining the chamber at the depyrogenation temperature for a depyrogenation time period, and introducing a flow of a sweep gas through the chamber of the furnace. The depyrogenation temperature may be between 250° C. and 1000° C. and the depyrogenation time period may be between about 45 minutes and 2.0 hours. The sweep gas may comprise any inert gas such as Nitrogen, Argon, or any combination thereof.