A tissue scaffold fabricated from tantalum fiber forms a rigid three-dimensional porous matrix having a tantalum composition. Porosity in the form of interconnected pore space is provided by the space between the tantalum fiber in the porous matrix. Strength of the porous matrix is provided by tantalum fiber fused and bonded into the rigid three-dimensional matrix having a specific pore size and pore size distribution. The tissue scaffold supports tissue in-growth to provide osteoconductivity as a tissue scaffold, used for the repair of damaged and/or diseased bone tissue.
