Abstract: Implantable material testing devices and method of testing materials in an animals are provided. In one embodiment, a method of testing a material in an animal includes associating the material with a retention frame to form a testing device. The retention frame movable between a first shape suited for insertion through a deployment instrument and a second shape suited for retention in the animal. The testing device is inserted in the first shape into the deployment instrument and is driven through the deployment instrument into the animal. Once in the animal, the testing device is permitted to assume the second shape so that the testing device is retained in the animal for a testing period. The testing device is removed from the animal after the testing period is complete, and the material is analyzed. The material may be analyzed for biofilm formation, encrustation, or degradation. The animal also may be analyzed for infection or other reactions to the material.

Abstract: A drug delivery device is provided that includes a device body, a number of solid, compressed drug tablets, and a retention frame. The device body includes a drug reservoir lumen and a retention frame lumen. The number of solid, compressed drug tablets are positioned in the drug reservoir lumen, and the retention frame is positioned in the retention frame lumen. The drug tablets may be mini-tablets aligned in the drug reservoir lumen, with an interstice formed between any two adjacent drug tablets facilitating deformation of the device body. Systems and method are also provided for loading a drug delivery device. In one embodiment, the method includes positioning one or more solid drug units upstream of the drug delivery device; and driving the drug units into the drug delivery device with a flow of pressurized gas.

Abstract: A drug dosage form is provided in the form of a solid tablet which is greater than 50% by weight the local anesthetic agent. The local anesthetic agent may be selected from the group consisting of an aminoamide, an aminoester, and a combination thereof. The drug tablet may be in the form of a mini-tablet which is greater than 70 wt % drug, with the balance being excipient. For example, the anesethetic agent may include lidocaine, in a salt or base form, combined with binder and lubricant excipients. Implantable drug delivery devices including the tablets are also provided, e.g., one or more of the drug tablets may be contained in a biocompatible housing. The drug tablets may be substantially cylindrical with flat end faces, and the device may have from 10 to 100 drug tablets aligned in the housing with the flat end faces of adjacent tablets abutting one another.