Active Implants Corporation

Noam Weissberg

Avraham Shterling

Eran Linder-Ganz

Jacob Jonathan Elsner

Amir Danino

Gal Zur

Methods of selecting and implanting prosthetic devices for use as a replacement meniscus are disclosed. The selection methods include a pre-implantation selection method and a during-implantation selection method. The pre-implantation selection method includes a direct geometrical matching process, a correlation parameters-based matching process, and a finite element-based matching process. The implant identified by the pre-implantation selection method is then confirmed to be a suitable implant in the during-implantation selection method. Methods of implanting meniscus prosthetic devices are also disclosed.

Meniscus prosthetic device selection and implantation methods

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 includes an anti-migration feature. The anti-migration feature is a bridge for engagement with a femur notch in some instances. Generally, the anti-migration feature allows the artificial meniscus to be implanted into the patient's knee and maintain its position within the knee without penetrating the adjacent bone. The bridge is reinforced with fibers in some instances.

Meniscus prosthetic devices with anti-migration features

Methods of manufacturing prosthetic devices for use as an artificial meniscus are disclosed. In some embodiments, the methods include injection molding a resilient core material, tensioning reinforcing fibers around the injection molded core, and injection molding an outer layer to embed the reinforcing fibers within the prosthetic device. In some instances the core material is a polycarbonate polyurethane and the reinforcing fibers are made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) having a lower melting temperature than the polyurethane. In one particular embodiment, the core material is Bionate 80A and the reinforcing fibers are made of Dyneema. In other embodiments, methods for manufacturing a reinforced material for use in prosthetic devices is disclosed.

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Rishon-LeZion, Israel

Noam Weissberg