Abstract: The present invention includes an insertion guide configured to be inserted in combination with a stylet wherein the insertion guide is left in the brain after the stylet is removed. The insertion guide then provides a path way for the stimulation lead, catheter, or other medical device to be placed into the brain to allow for the application of stimulation or therapeutic fluids to be administered. The insertion guide is further made of biodegradable material such that, after the lead is inserted through the insertion guide, the material forming the insertion guide biodegrades and is absorbed by the body.

Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for providing therapy to a living body. In one embodiment, an implanted permeable container has living cells provided therein, and various nutrients and/or agents are provided into the container to promote cell life.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for inducing neovascularization in injured tissues with endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Mixtures of purified CD34+ endothelial progenitors and purified CD14+ monocytes, or products of an in vitro co-culture of purified CD34+ endothelial progenitor cells and purified CD14+ monocytes provide neovascularization after administration to a subject having a tissue injury, such as an ischemic injury.

Abstract: An implantable medical device comprising a drug-loaded polymer overlaid with a fabric that promotes tissue ingrowth is useful in a wide variety of tissue engineering applications. The invention includes, for example, prosthetic heart valves, annuloplasty rings, and grafts, having enhanced biocompatibility and biostability. Methods of making and using the implantable medical devices of the invention are also included.

Abstract: An injection needle comprises an elongated body having an outer surface and an inner surface defining a longitudinal channel through the tubular body. The elongated body further comprises a distal end and at least one lateral delivery port extending from the inner surface to the outer surface proximate the distal end and fluidly coupled to the longitudinal channel. A distal tip is coupled to the distal end and comprises a radio-opaque material.

Abstract: Provided are novel stimulatory device for the controlled production of angiogenic growth factors. More specifically, a subthreshold pulse generator is used for the local production of vascular endothelial growth factor.

Abstract: A method involves selecting a type of cell for implantation into a mammal and identifying the specific gravity or density of the cell type. Then, a carrier liquid is selected which has a specific gravity or density within a range of specific gravities or densities which approximately matches the specific gravity or density of the selected cell type. A liquid for delivery of growth cells into tissue of a mammal is also provided in which the density of a carrier fluid component is matched to the density of the cells being consistently delivered by the carrier fluid.

Abstract: A medical electrical lead or indwelling catheter comprising an elongated body having a tissue-contacting surface that includes a polymer in intimate contact with a steroidal anti-inflammatory agent.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel stimulatory device for the controlled production of angiogenic growth factors. More specifically, the present invention provides a subthreshold pulse generator for the local production of vascular endothelial growth factor.