| 摘要 |
A soft tissue expander (52) has enhanced performance through use of differential and directional expansion, continuous expansion capability, increased base, and dimentional stability, increased soft tissue purchase by virtue of unique surface topography, and results in improved cavity contour after expansion. Expansion means may be provided to expand the implant in a desired direction. In the preferred embodiment, an expander or implant (52) has an exterior surface (62) defining a volume, the exterior surface (62) including a base portion (58), a first wall (54), and a second wall (62), wherein the second wall (62) is relatively thinner than the first wall. A fill port (60), which may be integrally molded into the expander (52), is included. As the expander (52) is inflated, differential expansion occurs with the relatively thin second wall section (62) expandingmore than that of the first wall section (54). The base (58) may include ribs (82) or other molded in structures to increase structural integrity. Optionally, a bellows (70) may be included on the exterior surface of the expander, the bellows (70) optionally including limiting ring (72). Molded in geometric patterns may be employed to present textured internal, as well as external surfaces to the implant or expander. Compressive structures may be usedon the inside or outside surface of the implant. |
