Patent ID: 9636207
Date: 2017-05-02
CPC Classifications: A61F

Claim:
1. A biocompatible, three-dimensional reinforcement structure for a tissue repair implant, the structure comprising: a flat outer circumferential ring member substantially lying in a first horizontal plane, and having an upper surface and a lower surface; a flat inner circumferential ring member substantially lying in a second horizontal plane, and having an upper surface and a lower surface; and, a plurality of connecting elements extending radially between the outer and inner rings, the elements having lower surfaces and upper surfaces, the connecting elements each additionally comprising a reinforcing rib member extending from at least one surface, the reinforcing rib members lying parallel to the connecting elements, wherein the structure has a symmetrical three-dimensional shape, and wherein the first and second planes are different, and wherein said support structure is responsive to forces such that it maintains a tissue repair implant in a substantially flat orientation adjacent to a tissue plane by controlling the direction of strain when subjected to a radially compressive force.