Abstract: The present application describes various applications of the non-expansion protocol for the preparation of an injectable autologous cell mixture of the present invention that can be used to prevent symptoms in a number of indications. Cells are isolated from surgically derived tissue and are at least partially disaggregated from each other. The heterologous cell mixture is mixed with growth factors, differentiation agents, extracellular matrix proteins and/or microspheres and injected into the patient without cell expansion. The harvesting of tissue, cell isolation, and injection are performed within a single surgical procedure lasting only minutes to hours.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An occlusion resistant medical shunt, particularly a hydrocephalic shunt, is provided for implantation into a mammal. The shunt has an elongate wall structure configured as a tube having a lumen therethrough and a proximal end for receipt of bodily fluids. The bodily fluids, such as cerebrospinal fluid, flows through the shunt to a distal end for discharge of the bodily fluids. The wall structure of the shunt generally includes a biocompatible medical device material. The shunts of the present invention further include one or more occlusion resistant materials to resist occlusion of the lumenal passage in the shunt.

Abstract: A method for coating a medical device with a hydrophilic polymer is provided. One method of the present invention includes chemically binding under appropriate reaction conditions a hydrophilic polymer to a biomaterial surface. Another method of the present invention includes chemically binding under appropriate reaction conditions a hydrophilic polymer to a primer located on a biomaterial surface. Another method of the present invention includes chemically binding under appropriate reaction conditions a biomolecule to a hydrophilic polymer located on a biomaterial surface.