Methods and apparatus for the conditioning of cartilage replacement tissue
US5882929A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 7, 1998 |
| Grant date | Mar 16, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 7, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC12M21/08
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for maturing a biopolymer tissue construct in vitro prior to use as a replacement construct in vivo as, for example, a graft, implant, or prosthesis. The tissue is seeded with specific cells, exposed to a maturation fluid, such as a synovial-like fluid containing hyaluronic acid, and subjected to selected conditioning and maturation forces, which can include frictional forces, shear forces, and compressive pressure. The tissue is mounted on a first support element and a second surface applies a selected force to the tissue. This maturation process occurs within a maturation chamber. The resultant matured replacement tissue construct is intended to provide a replacement tissue that is more readily integrable in vivo to produce a more durable and functional replacement tissue.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.