Abstract:
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for depositing polymer and/or other layers onto surfaces of, for example, implantable medical devices. In some embodiments, the polymer and/or other coating layers are deposited via plasma polymerization deposition. In some embodiments, primer layers are deposited via plasma polymerization deposition. A coating layer can be formed over a primer layer. The deposited layers can be bioresorbable and/or bioabsorbable.
Abstract:
Methods are disclosed including thermally processing a scaffold to increase the radial strength of the scaffold when the scaffold is deployed from a crimped state to a deployed state such as a nominal deployment diameter. The thermal processing may further maintain or increase the expansion capability of the scaffold when expanded beyond the nominal diameter.
Abstract:
Methods of reducing crimping damage to polymer and drug coating on a scaffold are disclosed. The methods include physically aging a coating including a coating polymer and drug mixture on a scaffold in a manner that takes into account the differing kinetics of aging, that is, the different temperature dependence of the aging rate of the polymer and drug.
Abstract:
A composition for loading 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 composition may comprise a therapeutic agent, and a chelator, a precipitation agent, or a combination thereof. Medical devices, such as stents, with a structural element defined by a lumen and at least one opening to access the lumen, filled with the compositions are also described.
Abstract:
Methods of reducing crimping damage to polymer and drug coating on a scaffold are disclosed. The methods include physically aging a coating including a coating polymer and drug mixture on a scaffold in a manner that takes into account the differing kinetics of aging, that is, the different temperature dependence of the aging rate of the polymer and drug.
Abstract:
It is provided herein modified polylactide (PLA) polymers comprising biocompatibile functional group(s) on the polymers and methods of making and using the modified PLA polymers.
Abstract:
Methods are disclosed for conditioning a polymeric stent after sterilization, and/or after crimping and before packaging, such that the properties of the polymeric stent fall within a narrower range of values. The stent is exposed to a controlled temperature at or above ambient for a period of time after radiation sterilization and/or after crimping and before sterilization. As a result, the polymeric stent properties, particularly radial strength and number-average molecular weight of the polymer of the polymeric stent, fall within a narrower range.
Abstract:
Methods and systems for controlling the moisture content of biodegradable and bioresorbable polymer resin during extrusion above a lower limit that allows for plasticization of the polymer resin melt and below an upper limit to reduce or prevent molecular weight loss are disclosed. Methods are further disclosed involving plasticization of a polymer resin for feeding into an extruder with carbon dioxide and freon.