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Abstract

A composite surgical implant structure for use orthognathic and reconstructive surgery, for the correction cranial defects, and for reconstructive preprosthetic oral maxillofacial surgery, the implant structure is comprised of at least one layer of perforated, biocompatible metallic sheet material (preferably pure pliable titanium) and at least one layer of biologically and chemically inert microporous membrane material in intimate contact with, and supported by, the layer of perforated metallic sheet material. The microporous membrane material is comprised of randomly dispersed polytetrafluoroethylene fibers, or mixtures of cellulose acetate and cellulose nitrate fibers, or polyvinylidine difluoride fibers and the material has a pore size such that desired biological nutrients are permitted passage through the implant structure and unwanted biological cells are precluded from passage therethrough, The layers of perforated metallic sheet material and microporous membrane material are maintained together to form the composite structure by a biocompatible adhesive, heat fusion of the fibers of the membrane material or mechanical fasteners interacting between the layers. The implant structure is particularly applicable to use for the guided regeneration and enlargement of bone tissue at surgical sites.

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First Claim