Tensioned Meniscus Prosthetic Devices and Associated Methods

摘要

A prosthetic device for use as an artificial meniscus is disclosed. The prosthetic device restores shock absorption, stability, and function to the knee joint after removal of the damaged natural meniscus. In some embodiments, the prosthetic device is pre-tensioned to improve the fit of the prosthetic device within the knee joint and, thereby, maximize the contact area of the load-bearing surfaces to distribute loading through the prosthetic device in a manner substantially similar to that of a healthy natural meniscus. In some embodiments, the pre-tensioned prosthetic device is smaller, or scaled-down, relative to the size of a healthy natural meniscus.

主权项

1. A prosthetic device for replacing a damaged meniscus, the prosthetic device comprising:
a central portion having an upper surface for engagement with a portion of a femur and an opposing lower surface for engagement with a portion of a tibia, the central portion comprising a resilient polymeric material; an outer portion surrounding the central portion and having an increased thickness relative to the central portion, the outer portion comprising the resilient polymeric material and tensioned with at least one reinforcing fiber embedded the resilient polymeric material; wherein the outer portion is sized and shaped such that a compression force imparted on the prosthetic device by the femur and the tibia displaces the outer portion radially outward from the central portion.