Patent ID: 6866668

Claim:
An instrument for introducing an implantable article comprising chondrocyte cells on a support matrix, to a site of cartilage defect in an animal, the instrument comprising: (a) a tubular outer sheath, said sheath having a proximal end adapted to be disposed at a user end of the instrument, and a distal end adapted to be disposed at the site of cartilage defect; (b) a handle and telescoping element disposed at least partially within said proximal end of said sheath; (c) an injection channel partially disposed within said handle and extending from said proximal end to said distal end of said sheath; (d) gripping elements attached to said telescoping element and adapted to grip and release the implantable article upon telescopic movement of said handle in said sheath; and (e) a needle that extends the length of the instrument and allows fluids to pass therethrough to the site of implantation.