Poly(vinyl alcohol) cryogel

摘要

The present invention comprises a poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel construct having a wide range of mechanical strengths for use as a human tissue replacement. A process in connection with the present invention eliminates any step involved with dehydration of the hydrogel prior to implantation thereof. The hydrogel construct may comprise a tissue scaffolding, a low bearing surface within a joint, or any other structure, which is suitable for supporting the growth of tissue.