Biodegradable implant

US5876452A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• The Board of Regents of the University of Texas System · US

Inventors

• Kyriacos A. Athanasiou · San Antonio, US
• Barbara D. Boyan · Richmond, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 30, 1995
• Grant date: Mar 2, 1999
• Expiry date: May 30, 2015

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F2250/003
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Biodegradable, porous, polymeric implant material provides substantially continuous release of bioactive agent during in vivo use. Bioactive agent is initially released in amounts that are less than degradation rate of polymer, thereby promoting migration of cells into material. Later larger amounts of bioactive agent are released, thereby promoting differentiation of cells. Method of making material includes steps of applying vacuum temperature and consession to form pores. Implant material may be adapted for one phase implant (e.g., for bone or cartilage) or for two phase layered implant (e.g., for cartilage layer on top of bone layer).