Abstract: Osteoprogenitor cells encapsulated in alginate and alternatively, additionally encapsulated in poly-L-lysine and/or agarose promote regeneration of bone at the site of implantation. The present invention provides a composition comprising osteoprogenitor cells embedded or encapsulated in alginate and the use of said microcapsules for the facilitation of bone regeneration.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for dispensing a medicament such as an antibiotic in the upper aerodigestive tract of an intubated patient (22). The apparatus (10) is a generally ovoid body (12) comprised of a substrate which can be polymeric, natural or synthetic woven or spun fiber, a gel, or other substance capable of being impregnated with the medicament and then releasing the medicament when contacted by an aqueous solution, specifically, the saliva of patient (22).Body (12) is shaped with rounded tapered surfaces (30) and ends (26) for engaging the mucosa of the alveolar ridge (32) and palate (20) of patient (22) to stabilize the apparatus (10) in the oral cavity (24). A channel (38) is provided for passage of the tube (40) of an endotracheal tube (36) therethrough which cooperates with the surfaces (30) and ends (26) to stabilize both endotracheal tube (36) and body (12) in the oral cavity (24).

Abstract: A analytic bone implant includes a cylindrical housing with an inner chamber designed for collecting sample of bone tissues. The outer surface of the housing is provided with a plurality of threads for securing the implant into bone tissue. The housing is further provided with a plurality of openings to allow new bone tissue to grow into a collecting basket. The openings in the housing are alignable with complementary openings in the basket. The openings on the basket are provided with sharp edges which serve as cutting blades to facilitate the removal of the bone sample. The implant includes provision for repeated access to the medullary compartment for obtaining sample of cancellous tissue for histologic and morphometric analysis.