Abstract: An implant for replacing the supporting function of an intervertebral space defined between adjacent vertebrae includes a prosthetic implant member dimensioned for insertion within a space provided by at least partial removal of the intervertebral disc. The implant member includes a first implant portion and a second implant portion. The first implant portion includes a microporous material formed to define a predetermined configuration and has a first relatively high average porosity to facilitate rapid bone ingrowth within the first implant portion. The second implant portion includes a microporous material formed to define a predetermined configuration and has a second relatively low average porosity to support and maintain the adjacent vertebrae in spaced relation during permanent fixation of the implant member within the adjacent vertebrae.

Abstract: An artificial bone graft implant for use as a replacement for living bone material in surgical procedures requiring the use of bone graft material includes a body formed of a microporous material and configured to be implanted into a prepared site in a patient's bone tissue. The body has a center portion, an outer portion and a pair of opposed outer surfaces defining the body. The body has a small average pore size in the center portion that gradually changes to larger average pore size in the outer portion. The pore size of the center portion of the implant allows for a load bearing capacity similar to natural bone and the pore size of the outer portion of the implant allows for the ingrowth of bone tissue.

Abstract: A shaped particle for use in an array of interlocking particles to repair, replace, improve or augment a bone deficiency is provided. The particle is comprised of bone material and, in a preferred embodiment, has six extremities, and the interstitial spaces between the extremities of one particle accept the extremities of an adjacent particle in an array. In a preferred embodiment, the bone material is demineralized bone material. In some embodiments, the particle is suspended in a material that facilitates application of the particle to bone, and the material may contain biological factors that augment bone growth or prevent infection.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods, devices, and systems for preventing complications, including for example, infection associated with any percutaneous or external fixation of bones by placing a pharmacological sleeve over an external fixation element. The pharmacological sleeve may be comprised of a polymer sleeve having one or more internal splines along at least part of the inner surface of the sleeve. The sleeve may be suffused or coated on any or all surfaces with a pharmacological coating which allows accumulation of drugs in the tissue surrounding the external fixation element, thereby reducing potential complications.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an artificial bone graft implant for use as a replacement for living bone material in surgical procedures requiring the use of bone graft material. The implant has a body configured to be implanted into a prepared site in a patient's bone tissue, with the body having a pair of opposed outer surfaces defining the body. A first and a second porous portion form the body with the first and second porous portions having pores of different sizes such that the average pore size of the first porous portion is greater than the average pore size of the second porous portion. The first porous portion of the body is formed in the shape of a core, with the core being in contact with the opposed outer surfaces of the body, and the second porous portion of the body is formed in the shape of an outer shell.