A dural graft is provided having improved stiffness characteristics
relative to conventional dural substitutes. The dural graft can be formed
from a collagen material having a stiffness between about 0.1 pounds per
inch (lb./in.) and 0.25 lb./in. Relative to the collagen material forming
conventional dural graft substitutes, the decreased stiffness of the
collagen material of the present dural graft can provide the graft with a
relatively improved or increased pliability. As a result of the increased
pliability, the dural graft can sufficiently conform to a curvature of a
tissue surface to which it is applied, such as the curved surface of a
meningeal membrane. The reduced stiffness of the collagen material can
also provide for a relatively improved or increased flexibility or
elasticity of the dural graft. The increased flexibility of the dural
graft minimizes tearing of the graft when handled or manipulated during
an implantation procedure.