Instrument for introducing an implantable article comprising chondrocyte cells on a support matrix

摘要

An instrument (30) for introducing an implantable article (20), comprising chondrocyte cells on a support matrix, to a site of cartilage defect in an animal, comprises: (a) a tubular outer sheath (32), the sheath having a proximal end adapted to be disposed at a user end of the instrument, and a distal end adapted to be disposed at the site of cartilage defect; (b) a handle (38) and telescoping element (36) disposed at least partially within the proximal end of the sheath; (c) an injection channel (34) partially disposed within the handle and extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the sheath and (d) gripping elements (42) attached to the telescoping element and adapted to grip and release the implantable article upon telescopic movement of the handle in the sheath.