Publication

Abstract : A composite implant for providing simultaneous magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomographic (CT) imaging contrast is disclosed. The composite implant is formed of a calcium compound in the form of nano or microparticles doped with a first dopant configured to provide MRI contrast and a second dopant configured to provide CT contrast. The calcium compound is loaded onto a polymer gel matrix and lyophilized to form a mass with 3-dimensionally interconnected porosity, configured to provide tissue integration and proliferation sites. Methods of forming the composite implant are also disclosed. The implant could be a scaffold or bead structured to enable treatment of human or animal patient for bone/cartilage injury or defect by implantation, with MRI and CT monitoring.