| abstract |
A cartilaginous structural member (CSM) for use in penile reconstruction, for the correction of developmental defects, postoperative reconstruction, and for reconstructive preprosthetic surgery. The cartilaginous structural member (CSM) comprise of live cells seeded onto pre-formed shaped structure which may be biodegradable. The live cells may comprise chondrocyte and the cartilaginous structural member (CSM) for use in reconstructive surgery may be constructed of polyglycolic acid. The implant structure is applicable to use for the regeneration and reconstruction or augmentation of semirigid members of the body such as the penis, nose, ear and locations which naturally have cartilage. Further, the cartilaginous structural member (CSM) may be used in plastic surgery such as, for example, breast augmentation or pectoral augmentation. The cartilaginous structural member (CSM) may be a composite cartilaginous structural member (CSM) comprising additional anchoring and strengthening elements for anchoring or changing the structural strength of said composite cartilaginous structural member (CSM). |