| abstract |
A shaped particle (10) for use in an array of interlocking particles to repair, replace, improve or augment a bone deficiency is provided. The particle in a preferred embodiment has six extremities (20), and the interstitial spaces (60) between the extremities(20) of one particle accept the extremities of an adjacent particle in an array. The particle is suspended in a material which facilitates application of the particle to bone, and the material may contain biological factors which augment bone growth or prevent infection. Furthermore, a method of making a shaped particle by producing a hardened calcium sulfate material is provided. |