Abstract:
A permeable structure (16) forms a chamber (12) to hold living cells (14). The structure includes a first permeable region (18) surrounding at least a portion of the chamber (12) having a confirmation that, when implanted is host tissue, substantially blocks penetration of host cells into the chamber (12) while permitting solute transport. The structure (16) also includes a second permeable region (20) overlaying the first permeable region (18) having a confirmation that, when implanted in host tissue, forms a permeable interface with host tissue that permits solute transport. A third permeable region (22) is located between the first (18) and second (20) permeable regions. The third region (22) comprises a solution of polymer material formed in place between the first (18) and second (20) permeable regions. The third permeable region (22) bonds the first (18) and second (20) permeable regions together. The third permeable region (22) also has a confirmation that, when implanted in host tissue, permits solute transport between the first (18) and second (20) permeable regions together, providing a robust, laminated structure that resists delamination during implantation caused by cellular infiltration into discontinuous spaces between the first (18) and second (20) regions. The third, formed-in-place region (22) can also have a confirmation providing an immunoisolation effect. Furthermore, the permeability of the third, formed-in-place membrane (22) is sufficient high that it does not adversely effect the permability value desired for the overall multiple layer structure (16).
Abstract:
An implant assembly and methods for loading implant devices which avoids the accidental deposition of transplanted material or other contaminates on the exterior of the device during transportation, storage, and handling are disclosed. The implant assembly of the invention may be used with a large variety of implant devices for implanting a variety of materials such as cells, tissue or other materials into a host. The implant assembly includes an implant device having an elongated port and a first chamber for holding material for implantation and a container with a second chamber for holding the implant device. The container functions to maintain the sterility and protect the physical integrity of the implant device during loading, storage, cryopreservation and transportation and is removed immediately prior to implantation of the device. The container may optionally include liquid media for cellular growth, maintenance, cryostorage, or transportation purposes.
Abstract:
An implant assembly and methods for loading implant devices which avoids the accidental deposition of transplanted material or other contaminates on the exterior of the device during transportation, storage, and handling are disclosed. The implant assembly of the invention may be used with a large variety of implant devices for implanting a variety of materials such as cells, tissue or other materials into a host. The implant assembly includes an implant device having an elongated port and a first chamber for holding material for implantation and a container with a second chamber for holding the implant device. The container functions to maintain the sterility and protect the physical integrity of the implant device during loading, storage, cryopreservation and transportation and is removed immediately prior to implantation of the device. The container may optionally include liquid media for cellular growth, maintenance, cryostorage, or transportation purposes.