Porous surface layered prosthetic devices.

The method of fabrication and properties of a dual structured implant system consisting of a metallic porous surface layer is described. The ingrowth of bone tissue into the outer porous surface layer results in part fixation, while the solid inner core region provides the necessary mechanical strength for a device used for the replacement of heavy load bearing joint regions such as the hip and knee. Additionally, novel implant systems are suggested using the porous coating concept.