Abstract:
This invention relates to methods of including an oxygen-sensitive macrocyclic triene on an implantable medical device wherein the device includes separate antioxidant-containing layers above, below or both above and below the drug reservoir layer containing the macrocyclic triene.
Abstract:
A system and method for coating an expandable member of a medical device comprises providing a dispenser in fluid communication with a fluid source with the dispenser having at least one outlet to dispense fluid of the fluid source therefrom. The outlet(s) of the dispenser is positioned proximate a surface of an expandable member, with relative movement between the outlet(s) and the surface of the expandable member established along a coating path, and fluid is dispensed from the dispenser to form a substantially continuous bead of fluid between the at least one outlet and the surface of the expandable member along the coating path, and simultaneously drying the fluid while dispensing the fluid from the dispenser to control flow of fluid on the surface of the expandable member. The fluid source can include a variety of therapeutic agents.
Abstract:
A method of loading a composition into a structural element of a stent, where the structural element is defined by a lumen and at least one opening to access the lumen. The structural element, or a stent having such a structural element, is immersed in a solution or a composition, and the composition or solution is allowed to fill the lumen. The composition or solution may comprise a therapeutic agent.
Abstract:
A method for removing excess coating from a stent involves simultaneously applying a coating substance to the stent, rotating the stent about a first axis of rotation, and rotating the stent about a second axis of rotation parallel to the first axis of rotation. An apparatus for removing excess coating from a stent includes a first system configured to rotate the stent about an axis of rotation, a fixture configured to support the stent such that a longitudinal axis of the stent is generally parallel to the axis of rotation, and a second system configured to rotate the stent about the longitudinal axis of the stent while the stent is supported by the fixture.