EXPERIENCE WITH OSSEOUS IMPLANTS FOR BONE AND BIOMATERIALS RESEARCH

A Cancellous Access Port (CAP) osseous implant for repeated sampling o f cancellous tissue was developed and tested for experimental studies of bone, marrow, and materials biocompatibility. The CAP and associate d methods were shown in a series of studies to allow the repeated biop sy of unstrained cancellous tissue with little morbidity and no mortal ity when used in baboons, rhesus, sheep, and horses. CAP infusion, mat erial testing, and biopsy core assemblies were developed and tested fo r the administration and assessment of the effects of pharmaceuticals and biologics; the placement and retrieval of a biomaterial with the s urrounding tissue; and studies of cancellous bone healing and remodeli ng.