Abstract: Bone augmentation in a mammalian body to enhance the mechanical strength of a prosthesis is provided by reinforcement of bone in the region surrounding the implant device. A number of fibrillar wires are formed on the prosthetic implant device. Formation of the fibrillar wires comprises gauging the implant device so that the fibrillar wires are formed by peeling them from the implant device. Alternatively, formation of the fibrillar wires may comprise forming a mesh of fibrillar wires having a woolly structure, forming the mesh around the prosthetic implant device, and attaching a number of the fibrillar wires to the prosthetic implant device. A coating is formed on the fibrillar wires and an associated prosthetic implant device. The coating comprises bone morphogenetic proteins along with osteoinductive factors and osteoconductive factors that function as nutrients, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory agents, and blood-clotting factors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to biomedical implants for bone substitution and replacement applications. The implant includes a strong, porous polymeric or thermoplastic compositions and growth-enhancing compositions.

Abstract: An implantable substantially planar bioabsorbable article for the separation and regeneration of tissue at a tissue defect site includes first surface of the article, which may be circular or elliptical, that is provided with a soft tissue side intended for direction towards soft or subcutaneous tissue and having a microtextured surface optimized for promotion of ingrowth of soft tissue. An opposite side of the article comprises a different microgrooved surface, optionally including osteoconductive chemical properties, and physically oriented against or within the bone defect site toward and against the center of the defect into which any graft material placed. The membrane is flexible and of sufficient density to accommodate sutures or is circumfentially provided with perforations to hold sutures.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hard tissue scaffold comprising a resorbable ceramic. The scaffold is formed by first creating unfired (green) bioresorbable ceramic fibers via the viscous suspension spinning process (VSSP). Then, using common textile techniques, a structure in which the size and distribution of interconnected pores are controlled, is created. Heat treating the structure to remove the organic phase and sintering the ceramic yields a hard tissue scaffold.

Abstract: A biocompatible tissue implant, as well as methods for making and using such an implant, is provided. Preferably, the tissue implant is bioabsorbable. The tissue implant comprises one or more layers of a bioabsorbable polymeric foam having pores with an open cell structure. The tissue implant also includes a reinforcement component which contributes both to the mechanical and the handling properties of the implant. Preferably, the reinforcement component of the instant invention is bioabsorbable as well. The tissue implant of the present invention can be used in connection with the surgical repair of soft tissue injury, such as injury to the pelvic floor.

Abstract: Use of one or more saccharides, for example one or more non-toxic mono-, di-, tri-, oligo- or polysaccharides, in the manufacture of a biocompatible glue for adhering a first structure to a surface of a second structure. The biocompatible glue can be adapted to act as a temporary glue. In this case the glue may be used to enable a medical structure to be transferred from a medical instrument onto the surface of a structure of a human or animal body, for example as in the transfer of a buffer material from the fork of a surgical stapler to a diseased lung after one or more rows of staples have been fired through the buffer material into the lung during lung volume reduction surgery for treating emphysema. The biocompatible glue can also to advantage be used to adhere or secure medical structures to a structure of a human or animal body direct, such as in the case of a patch being applied to the skin of a mammal.

Abstract: This invention is directed to tissue engineered prostheses made from processed tissue matrices derived from native tissues that are biocompatible with the patient or host in which they are implanted. When implanted into a mammalian host, these prostheses can serve as a functioning repair, augmentation, or replacement body part or tissue structure.

Abstract: This invention is directed to prosthesis, which, when implanted into a mammalian patient, serves as a functioning replacement for a body part, or tissue structure, and will undergo controlled biodegradation occurring concomitantly with bioremodeling by the patient's living cells. The prosthesis is treated so that it is rendered non-antigenic so as not to elicit a significant humoral immune response. The prosthesis of this invention, in its various embodiments, thus has dual properties. First, it functions as a substitute body part, and second, it functions as bioremodeling template for the ingrowth of host cells.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tissue engineered testicular prosthesis for implanting within a patient comprises a scaffold comprising a biodegradable polymer scaffold having a substantially elliptical body in longitudinal cross-section replicating the shape of a testicle and a substantially circular cross-section in transverse cross-section the biodegradable scaffold defining an interior and an exterior of the prosthesis and the scaffold being seeded with disassociated chondrocytes or Leydig cells, or both chondrocytes and Leydig cells. The interior of the prosthesis can be at least partially filled with testosterone.

Abstract: The Applicants' invention is a bioactive, biocompatible, bioabsorbable surgical composite that is fabricated bioabsorbable polymers, copolymers or polymer alloys that are self-reinforced and contain ceramic particles or reinforcement fibers, and also can be porous. The composite of the invention can be formed into devices like pins, screws, plates, tacks, bolts, intramedullary nails, suture anchors, staples, and many other devices, all of which are useful in bone-to-bone, soft tissue-to-bone or soft tissue-to-soft tissue fixation or in fixation of bioabsorbable and/or biostable implants in or on bone or soft tissue.

Abstract: A method for repairing defects and reconstructing urothelial structures in vivo has been developed using a fibrous, open synthetic, biodegradable polymeric matrix which is configured to provide the desired corrective structure. The matrix is shaped to correct the defect, then implanted surgically to form a scaffolding for the patient's own cells to grow onto and into. The implantation of the matrix initiates an inflammatory reaction, resulting in urothelial cells, endothelial cells and mesenchymal cells, to migrate into the matrix. The polymer forming the matrix is selected to be biocompatible and degradable in a controlled manner over a period of one to six months, in the preferred embodiment. A preferred material is a poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) in a fibrous form, such as a woven or non-woven mesh. Examples demonstrate the repair of defects in bladder in rabbits.

Abstract: An areal implant has a mesh-like basic structure (30) which is provided with a reinforced zone (32) in a central area. Radial reinforcing elements (34, 36) can extend from the reinforced zone (32) towards the peripheral edge (31) of the basic structure (30).

Abstract: A hernia repair prosthetic element includes: a central portion which covers a hernia opening within a patient; plural support portions integrally connected about a periphery of the central portion for securing the central portion in covering relation to the hernia opening; the prosthetic element, including the central and support portions, being a substantially planar member formed of flexible mesh material; the support portions being foldable relative to the central portion so that the prosthetic element can be selectively manipulated between folded and unfolded shapes; the support portions being adapted to securely engage various components of the patient's body surrounding the hernia opening; and openings are formed through the central portion for passage of fluid therethrough. The prosthetic element has only two basic shapes, one for use in relation to all groin hernias and one for use in relation to all abdominal hernias.

Abstract: The invention provides a means of boosting the mechanical performance of shaped shaped medical devices comprising polymer hydrogels, such as stents, so that they may be more easily inserted into or removed from the body. In one aspect, the invention provides shaped medical devices having increased mechanical strength and comprising both ionic and covalent crosslinks. In another aspect, the invention provides a shaped medical device having a heterogeneous polymer composition and a variable dissolution or degradation rate along its length. The shaped medical devices according to the present invention retain their shape and stiffness during insertion into the body and can swell and soften inside the body to enhance patient comfort.

Abstract: The present patent describes a three-dimensional interconnected open cell porous foams that have a gradient in composition and/or microstructure through one or more directions. These foams can be made from a blend of absorbable and biocompatible polymers that are formed into foams having a compositional gradient transitioning from predominately one polymeric material to predominately a second polymeric material. These gradient foams are particularly well suited to tissue engineering applications and can be designed to mimic tissue transition or interface zones.

Abstract: The invention relates to an absorbable implantable tissue expander device that can be used in surgeries as a gradually diminishing space filler. The absorbable tissue expander has a fluid-tight or semipermeable envelope having a bio-absorbable biocompatible shell defining a chamber. The envelope is inflatable upon infusion of a fluid into said chamber and deflatable upon removal of the fluid from said chamber. The tissue expander also has a means for the controlled inflation and deflation of the envelope after the device is implanted in a tissue.

Abstract: Methods of performing opening wedge osteotomies are disclosed in which healing of the osteotomy defect is enhanced by packing the opening with pre-packaged, wedge-shaped bone grafts. The bone wedges are provided in sets of three: two larger outer pieces and a smaller inner piece that fits behind a bone plate. The wedge pieces are made of allograft bone or synthetic bone material. Outer surfaces of the two larger pieces preferably are cortical bone or cortical bone-like material.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a method of treating a patient with diseased or damaged organs comprising administering to said patient a bioremodelable collagen-containing material which promotes the production of structural collagen, vascularization and epithelialization by the ingrowth of patient cells, wherein the material undergoes controlled biodegradation occurring with adequate living cell replacement such that the original implanted graft is bioremodeled by the patient's living cells.

Abstract: A breast implant has at least an outer shell which is composed of a resorbable material. The implant, which can be formed entirely of bioresorbable material such as a collagen foam, is sized and shaped to replace excised tissue. The implant supports surrounding tissue upon implantation, while allowing for in-growth of fibrous tissue to replace the implant. According to various alternative embodiments, the implant is elastically compressible, or can be formed from self-expanding foam or sponges, and can be implanted through a cannula or by injection, as well as by open procedures. The implant can carry therapeutic and diagnostic substances.

Abstract: A resorbable interbody fusion device for use in spinal fixation is disclosed. The device is composed of 25-100% bioresorbable or resorbable material. The interbody fusion device of the invention can be in any convenient form, such as a wedge, screw or cage. Preferably, the resorbable device of the invention is in the shape of a tapered wedge or cone, which further desirably incorporates structural features such as serrations or threads better to anchor the device in the adjoining vertebrae. The preferred device further comprises a plurality of peripheral voids and more desirably a central void space therein, which may desirably be filled with a grafting material for facilitating bony development and/or spinal fusion, such as an autologous grafting material.

Abstract: A web of continuous filaments which are made of at least one semi-crystalline polymeric component covalently bonded as a linear block copolymer with or blended with one or more semi-crystalline or amorphous polymeric components. The filaments are intermingled together to form a porous web of filaments, the filaments having multiple contact points with each other within the web. The filaments are bonded at the contact points without requisite for added adhesive binders, adjuncts or post extrusion melt processing. The web may be bioresorbable. The web may also be provided in forms with relatively high cohesive shear strength. The polymeric components of the filaments exist, at least temporarily, in a homogenous substantially phase miscible uncrystallized state.

Abstract: A bio-compatible and bioresorbable stent is disclosed that is intended to restore or maintain patency following surgical procedures, traumatic injury or stricture formation. The stent is composed of a blend of at least two polymers that is either extruded as a monofilament then woven into a braid-like embodiment, or injection molded or extruded as a tube with fenestrations in the wall. Methods for manufacturing the stent are also disclosed.

Abstract: A biochemical implant is described which comprises at least two matrix components. The first matrix component is composed of collagen with a porous macrostructure with the ability to withstand tensile or shear forces. The second matrix component is a hydrated alginate gel which substantially fills the porous macrostructure of the first component and exerts a swelling pressure. The implant additionally comprises a population of cells comprising chondrocytes, fibrochondrocytes, fibroblasts or osteoblasts, or precursors thereof.

Abstract: A bio-absorbable cartilage repair system is provided for regenerating damaged or destroyed articular cartilage on a joint surface of a bone by establishing a chondrogenic growth-supporting matrix between an area of damaged or destroyed articular cartilage that has been removed and an adjacent healthy area of articular cartilage and subchondral cancellous bone. The system is an assembly of a delivery unit and a porous insert. The delivery unit is formed of bio-absorbable material and configured and dimensioned to be mounted in both an area of damaged or destroyed articular cartilage that has been removed and an adjacent healthy area of articular cartilage and cancellous bone. The delivery unit has a central body and a plurality of radially extending, flexible support arms projecting outwardly from the central body and configured and dimensioned to support the insert at least partially thereover.

Abstract: Composite prosthesis, comprising a non-absorbable prosthetic fabric and at least one film made of a material which is absorbable in vivo, combined with one surface of the prosthetic fabric. In combination, the prosthetic fabric has a three-dimensional structure separating its two surfaces, at least one of which is open to all post-surgical cell colonization, and the film of absorbable material is linked at least superficially to the other surface of said fabric.

Abstract: A resorbable interbody fusion device for use in spinal fixation is disclosed. The device is composed of 25-100% bioresorbable or resorbable material. The interbody fusion device of the invention can be in any convenient form, such as a wedge, screw or cage. Preferably, the resorbable device of the invention is in the shape of a tapered wedge or cone, which further desirably incorporates structural features such as serrations or threads better to anchor the device in the adjoining vertebrae. The preferred device further comprises a plurality of peripheral voids and more desirably a central void space therein, which may desirably be filled with a grafting material for facilitating bony development and/or spinal fusion, such as an autologous grafting material.

Abstract: A highly porous three-dimensional biodegradable poly(organophosphazene) matrix with hydrolytically unstable side chains is prepared and used as a scaffold for the growth of osteoblast cells. In a preferred embodiment, the poly(organophosphazene) includes between 10 and 90% hydrolytically unstable side chains including glucosyl, glyceryl, glyceryl, imidazolyl or ethoxy units, for example, poly[(methylphenoxy)(ethyl glycinato) phosphazene]. The addition of the glucosyl, glycinyl or glyceryl side chains to the polymer can also be used generally to enhance growth rates of cells adhered to the polymer, presumably through uptake and metabolism of the simple sugar or alcohol units.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biodegradable implant or the like manufactured of polymer-based material and intended to be installed in tissue conditions. In the macroscopic structure of the implant two or several zones are created in a manner that the biodegradable polymer-based material has in different zones a different detaching time from the macroscopic structure under tissue conditions.

Abstract: A breast implant has at least an outer shell which is composed of a resorbable material. The implant, which can be formed entirely of bioresorbable material, is sized and shaped to replace excised tissue. The implant supports surrounding tissue upon implantation, while allowing for in-growth of fibrous tissue to replace the implant. According to various alternative embodiments, the implant is elastically compressible, or can be formed from self-expanding foam or sponges, and can be implanted through a cannula or by injection, as well as by open procedures. The implant also is capable of carrying therapeutic and diagnostic substances.

Abstract: A web of continuous filaments which are made of at least one semi-crystalline polymeric component covalently bonded as a linear block copolymer with or blended with one or more semi-crystalline or amorphous polymeric components. The filaments are intermingled together to form a porous web of filaments, the filaments having multiple contact points with each other within the web. The filaments are bonded at the contact points without requisite for added adhesive binders, adjuncts or post extrusion melt processing. The web may be bioresorbable. The web may also be provided in forms with relatively high cohesive shear strength. The polymeric components of the filaments exist, at least temporarily, in a homogenous substantially phase miscible uncrystallized state.

Abstract: A bioabsorbable material such as a terpolymer of poly-(L-lactide/D-lactide/glycolide). The material may consist of 85 molar percent L-lactide, 5 molar percent D-lactide, and 10 molar percent glycolide. The material may have a heat of fusion of about 15-25 J/G, tensile strength retention at 26 weeks of incubation of at least about 50%, and tensile strength retention at 52 weeks of incubation of at most about 25%. The material may be used in implantable devices such as bone fixation devices.

Abstract: A graft prostheses (11), materials and method for implanting, transplanting, replacing, or repairing a part of a patient. The graft prosthesis includes a purified, collagen-based matrix structure removed from a submucosa tissue source. The submucosa tissue source is purified by disinfection and removal steps to deactivate and remove contaminants, thereby making the purified structure biocompatible and suitable for grafting on and/or in a patient.

Abstract: A porous three-dimensional bone grafting matrix is provided which is biodegradable. The matrix is preferably formed from mineralized collagen where the mineral comprises particulate calcium phosphate immobilized in the matrix and having a particle size of 5 microns or less.