| abstract |
Create an orthopedic joint wear surface, including the preparation and use of one or more partially or fully preformed and pre-cured components, adapted for insertion and placement in the body and at joint sites Or methods and systems to modify. In a preferred embodiment, one or more components can be partially cured and generally formed in vitro, and further formed in vivo at a joint site to enhance adaptation and improve long-term performance. In another embodiment, a preformed balloon or composite material can be inserted into the joint site and filled with the flowable biomaterial in situ to conform to the joint site. In still other embodiments, one or more preformed components can be completely cured and formed in vitro, and further mated and secured at the joint site as needed. The preformed component is flexible enough to allow insertion through an entry portal with minimal invasiveness, yet takes substantially the desired form in vivo to be further shaped as needed Or may be sufficiently resilient to have a tendency toward it. |