Method, instruments, and kit for autologous transplantation

Abstract

An implantable article for cartilage repair by implantation in an animal. The implantable article includes a support matrix, and chondrocyte cells and a bio-compatible adhesive adhered to an edge of the support matrix, wherein the support matrix is absorbable by the animal. The support matrix is a biocompatible material such as collagen, and the adhesive is autologous fibrin.

1 . An implantable article for cartilage repair by implantation in an animal comprising a support matrix, and chondrocyte cells and a bio-compatible adhesive adhered to an edge of said support matrix, wherein said support matrix is absorbable by the animal.  
   
   
       2 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix is a sheet-like member capable of supporting growth of the chondrocyte cells and of providing physical integrity to the implantable article to facilitate manipulation thereof.  
   
   
       3 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix comprises polypeptides or proteins.  
   
   
       4 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix is collagen.  
   
   
       5 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said collagen is selected from the group consisting essentially of equine, porcine, bovine, ovine and chicken collagen.  
   
   
       6 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix is solid.  
   
   
       7 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix is gel-like.  
   
   
       8 . The implantable article of  claim 4 , wherein said collagen is collagen Type I.  
   
   
       9 . The implantable article of  claim 4 , wherein said collagen is collagen Type II.  
   
   
       10 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said implantable article is reversibly deformable.  
   
   
       11 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix has a rough side.  
   
   
       12 . The implantable article of  claim 11 , wherein said rough side is porous.  
   
   
       13 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix has a smooth side.  
   
   
       14 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said support matrix has a rough and a smooth side.  
   
   
       15 . The implantable article of  claim 1 , wherein said chondrocyte cells and said bio-compatible adhesive are in an admixture.