摘要:
An in-vitro model apparatus of a human spine and methods for detecting and analyzing substance distribution patterns therein. In one embodiment, the model apparatus includes a column body defining a passageway that substantially mimics the size, shape, and structure of an adult human spinal canal. Also included is a cord structure that may be located and anchored within the passageway. The cord structure substantially mimics the size, shape, and structure of an adult human spinal cord. For example, the cord structure may include connecting elements that resemble nerve roots, dentate ligaments, and the septum posticum of a human spine. The passageway of the model apparatus may be filled with a first fluid that simulates cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF), and a second fluid containing a drug (or simulated drug) may be introduced into the passageway, after which the drug's distribution within the passageway may be analyzed.
摘要:
A system, method and apparatus relating to a therapeutic substance delivery patch for attachment to a patient such that the patch is in contact with the patient's skin, wherein the patch coordinates its delivery of the therapeutic substance to the patient based on information received relating to the operation of the implanted device. The information received by the patch may be received through telemetry from the implanted device, or alternatively from the patch sensing the action of the implanted device, or alternatively from the patch sensing the patient's physiologic reaction to the action taken by the implanted device.
摘要:
Extravascular implantable medical devices are described. The devices include a polymeric layer comprising a polymeric matrix and pores. Therapeutic agent is loaded in the matrix, in the pores, or in the matrix and the pores. The devices include a structural surface layer. Additional therapeutic agent may be loaded in or on the surface layer. The devices may also include one or more intermediate layer, into or onto which additional therapeutic agent may be loaded.
摘要:
Medical devices configured to be implanted in two or more tissues simultaneously are discussed. A therapeutic agent is disposed on, in, or about at least a portion of an external surface of a medical device configured to be placed in one tissue, but not on, in or about a surface configured to be placed in another tissue. The therapeutic agent may be disposed on or in a polymeric material, which is disposed on or about at least a portion of an external surface of first portion the medical device. Such targeted placement of polymeric material may allow for the therapeutic agent to be eluted in an appropriate tissue and may allow for decreased undesired effects.
摘要:
Devices, systems and methods for delivering one or more drugs to one or more internal body locations (such as the cerebrospinal fluid) are disclosed. In various aspects, the systems and methods may involve catheters having infusion sections with permeable membranes and one or more valves that control flow to the infusion sections.
摘要:
An anti-infective covering for an implantable medical device is described. The covering may be a polymeric boot that comprises an anti-infective agent in an amount effective to prevent an infection when implanted in a pocket of a patient. The boot is configured to snuggly engage at least a portion of the implantable medical device. The boot may contain a side hole that allows a housing of the implantable medical device to serve as a return electrode. The boot may be placed about the implantable medical device to render the device anti-infective.
摘要:
Systems and methods for coordinated delivery of a therapeutic agent and low (less than about 20 Hz) and high (greater than about 50 Hz) frequency stimulation therapy are described. The systems include a control unit for coordinating therapy delivery between an infusion device and a pulse generator, such that a therapeutic agent is administered at a predetermined time relative to application of either low frequency or high frequency stimulation. For example, the control unit may instruct the infusion device to deliver therapeutic agent at a predetermined time prior to delivery of low frequency stimulation. Systems that include more than one infusion device or an infusion pump capable of delivering more than one therapeutic agent are also described.
摘要:
Methods for manufacturing medical devices comprising a polymeric material capable of releasing a therapeutic agent upon contact with bodily tissue or fluid are described. The method includes generating polymeric material having a matrix into or onto which a therapeutic agent is disposed and having pores. The method further includes disposing additional therapeutic agent into the pores of the polymeric material.
摘要:
Devices, systems and methods for delivering one or more drugs to one or more internal body locations (such as the cerebrospinal fluid) are disclosed. In various aspects, the systems and methods may involve catheters having infusion sections with permeable membranes and one or more valves that control flow to the infusion sections.
摘要:
Enhanced therapies for treating pain are described. The therapies include subcutaneous stimulation of tissue in proximity to a source of pain at low frequencies (less than about 20 Hz) and high frequencies (greater than about 50 Hz). The therapies further include administering a pain treating agent at a predetermined time relative to application of the high or low frequency stimulation. Delivery of the pain treating agent via an implantable infusion system is described. Coordination of output of an infusion device and a pulse generator to provide coordinated therapy is also discussed.