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Implantable therapy systems and methods

  • US 5,487,739 A
  • Filed: 06/02/1995
  • Issued: 01/30/1996
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/17/1987
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A system for delivering a biologically active factor to a selected treatment site in a subject, comprising:

  • i) a single cannula adapted for penetration through tissue into a selected position in proximity with the treatment site, having a bore with a substantially smooth interior surface running axially therethrough through which a vehicle may slidably move, an open, proximal end into which the vehicle may be slidably inserted and a distal end having an opening through which the vehicle may slidably move wherein the external diameter and bore diameter are tapered toward the distal tip;

    ii) an obturator disposable within the cannula to prevent tissue material from entering the distal end of the cannula when it is inserted into tissue;

    iii) a vehicle which encapsulates the biologically active factor, the vehicle having an outer surface which comprises a biocompatible semipermeable outer membrane through which the biologically active factor may be released into the selected treatment site, and a shape which enables slidable insertion into the proximal end of the cannula, slidable movement along the bore of the cannula, slidable passage through the distal end of the cannula by removal of the cannula from the proximity of the treatment site; and

    iv) a pusher disposable within the cannula to engage the outer surface of the vehicle, to slidably move the vehicle through the bore, and to hold the vehicle in place at the selected treatment site when the cannula is removed from the proximity of the treatment site, the pusher being removable after the vehicle is positioned at the treatment site.

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