摘要 |
The invention disclosed is a method and apparatus for imparting a desired shape to a surface-to-be-shaped of articular cartilage in the joint of a mammal. The method discloses applying steam to a surface-to-be-shaped to soften the cartilage at and near that surface and positioning a form defining the desired shape adjacent to that softened region. A bias pressure is applied to impart the desired shape and the form is removed. An apparatus for practicing the method includes an element for generating and delivering steam to the surface-to-be-shaped to soften the surface and includes a form for molding the softened surface.
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