Biodegradable prostheses, implantable scaffolds, synthetic surgical tissue reconstruction grafts and surgical implants all being made from artificial materials and for use in tissue reconstruction; implantable scaffolds, synthetic surgical tissue reconstruction grafts and surgical implants all being made from artificial materials which are porous and for use in tissue reconstruction; implantable scaffolds, synthetic surgical tissue reconstruction grafts and surgical implants made from artificial materials in the form of foam, sheet or mesh for use in repair and treatment of internal and external wounds; implantable scaffolds, synthetic surgical tissue reconstruction grafts and surgical implants made from artificial materials in the form of foam, sheet or mesh for use in repair and treatment of pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers; surgical mesh comprised primarily of artificial materials; surgical foams for use in tissue reconstruction; surgical slings; implantable scaffolds, synthetic surgical tissue reconstruction grafts and surgical implants made from artificial materials for use in the repair and treatment of internal and external wounds; implantable scaffolds, synthetic surgical tissue reconstruction grafts and surgical implants made from artificial materials for use in the repair and treatment of pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers; surgical apparatus in the nature of biodegradable porous devices for use in the repair and treatment of internal and external wounds; implantable scaffolds, synthetic surgical tissue reconstruction grafts and surgical implants made from artificial materials for use in soft tissue repair, reinforcement and augmentation; artificial skin for surgical use; artificial skin for surgical purposes; artificial skin replacing membranes for surgical purposes