Use of porous biodegradable polymer implants in meniscus reconstruction. 2) Biological evaluation of porous biodegradable polymer implants in menisci

Several series of porous, biodegradable PU/PLLA foams were used for meniscus reconstruction in dogs. PLLA-fiber reinforced PU/PLLA composites, PU/PLLA, and PU foams were implanted in severe meniscus lesions. The healing process was initiated as a result of blood vessels′ and other cells′ ingrowth into these porous materials. To accomplish good ingrowth of fibrocartilaginous tissue, the materials should have interconnected macropores of 200–300μn with a high total pore volume. PLLA fibers were used to reinforce the materials, but seem to retard the degradation process and the ingrowth of fibrocartilaginous tissue.

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