A synovial joint implantable apparatus for the reconstruction of skeletal
defects with a flexible member, which is preferably resorbable, attached
to a rigid structural prosthesis such as a total hip or total knee
replacement implant. The cavitary space defined and surrounded by the
flexible member is filled with osteoconductive and/or inductive materials
which eventually matures into new column of bone. The prosthesis is
supported by the bed of graft material surrounding it and is gradually
unloaded as the bed matures into solid bone. The fixation of the
prosthesis into native bone depends on the specific implant and the
anatomic area of its use. The flexible member is secured to the margins
of the prosthesis using rails, runners, sutures, or other attachment
devices that prevent the escape of the bone graft and maintain an initial
column of support for the implant. Should the metal implant even need
removal, the reconstituted bone can be separated from the implant in such
a way as to restore bone stock and facilitate future revision surgical
procedures.