Patent ID: 6530956
Filing Date: 2003-03-11
Classification: A61F,A61L

Abstract:
A surgically implantable device for repairing a segment of damaged cartilage in a mammalian joint, comprising a biocompatible scaffold which is designed and fabricated to promote formation of cartilage by chondrocyte cells which can be embedded therein prior to surgical implantation, and wherein the biocompatible scaffold has an articulating surface on a first side and an anchoring surface on an opposed second side, and wherein the biocompatible scaffold comprises:a. at least one first portion made of a first relatively stiff matrix material which is porous, is gradually resorbable when in contact with body fluids, and promotes cell replication and secretion of cartilage-forming constituents by transplanted cells embedded within said first portion, and which is designed to withstand and resist a compressive articulating load placed on the joint after surgical implantation of the biocompatible scaffold but before substantial resorption of the first matrix material; b. at least one second portion made of a second matrix material which is porous and gradually resorbable and which is designed and fabricated to promote optimal rapid cartilage formation following surgical implantation, by chondrocyte cells or mesenchymal stem cells embedded within the second matrix material or by progeny cells thereof.