Importance

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Abstract

Medical devices, most particularly prosthesis, are defined having at least one porous tissue-mating surface. The tissue-mating surface of the device includes therein a pharmacologically active substance within a biodegradable carrier, such as a polymer or a biodegradable ceramic, such as calcium phosphate. A biodegradable composition of the drug and carrier is impregnated within the pores of the tissue-mating surfaces of the device. The device thereby provides for the long-term release of pharmacologically active substances upon implant. The prosthesis of the present invention provides for enhanced rigid fixation, as pores at the surface of said device provide for bony ingrowth as biodegradable material impregnated therein degrades. Pharmacologically active substances within the biodegradable composition also enhances the rate of bony in-growth where said substances are particularly osteoinductive. The structure of the present device effectively delivers pharmacologically active substances to tissue- (e.g., to bone) mating surfaces as they are positioned directly against the tissue/bone surfaces upon implant. Methods for preparing said prosthesis, as well as methods for facilitating the delivery of a pharmacologically active substance at a tissue (bone) prosthesis are also disclosed.

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First Claim