| abstract |
The present invention relates to a method of utilizing body tissue by forming an implant that includes body tissue positioned in a cage. The cage is formed of material which expands when exposed to body fluid and the cage is positioned in a patient's body at a location where the cage is exposed to such body fluid so that the cage expands in the patients' body as the cage absorbs body fluid. The cage can be provided with openings extending substantially from a first end to a second end to allow tissue ingrowth. The body tissue can be heated or cooled and then shaped prior to placement in the cage. Also, the cage material can be biodegradable. |