Three-dimensional geometric bio-compatible porous engineered structure for use as a bone mass replacement or fusion augmentation device

Abstract

The invention provides a three-dimensional geometric porous engineered structure for use as a bone mass replacement or fusion augmentation device. The structure is a space-filling, self-supporting structure constructed of rigid filaments joined together to form regular, repeating geometric shapes. The structure supports the skeletal structure as well as the surrounding tissue during rehabilitation and/or bone fusion. Further, the structure provides many open intersticial areas, which are appropriately shaped and sized for bone in-growth. One preferred geometric structure is based on repeating modified dodecahedrons which are built from pentagons. The resulting structure has two transverse planes of bilateral symmetry. Other embodiments include disc shaped structures and structures having open internal areas to allow the possibility of auto graft, allograft, or artificial bone substitute.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.