Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to techniques for delivering macromolecules to a tissue site via electroporation. Particularly, a catheter detects contact between a distal end of the catheter and a target tissue site via a sensing electrode at the distal end of the catheter. The catheter delivers a fluid containing macromolecules to the tissue site upon detecting contact between the tissue site and the catheter. Concurrently or soon after delivery of the fluid, an electrical stimulus is applied to the tissue site. The electrical stimulus can be applied by the catheter or directly from a power supply, such as an implanted pulse generator. The electrical stimulus causes membranes of cells within the tissue site to destabilize, in turn, forming pores through which the macromolecules migrate into the cells of the tissue site.

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 external surface of a catheter body includes a pressure responsive slit formed in an indentation wherein a wall thickness of the catheter body within the indentation is less than a wall thickness of a major portion of the catheter body. Material exits a lumen of the catheter body, via the pressure responsive slit, when a pressure inside the lumen exceeds an external pressure.

Abstract: A catheter body includes an exit port over which a pressure responsive sleeve is formed that allows material to exit a lumen of the catheter body at a given pressure. In one embodiment, a surface of the sleeve is approximately flush with a surface of the catheter body. In another embodiment the sleeve includes a tapered edge.

Abstract: A catheter body includes an exit port over which a pressure responsive sleeve is formed that allows material to exit a lumen of the catheter body at a given pressure. In one embodiment, a surface of the sleeve is approximately flush with a surface of the catheter body. In another embodiment the sleeve includes a tapered edge.

Abstract: An external surface of a catheter body includes a pressure responsive slit formed in an indentation wherein a wall thickness of the catheter body within the indentation is less than a wall thickness of a major portion of the catheter body. Material exits a lumen of the catheter body, via the pressure responsive slit, when a pressure inside the lumen exceeds an external pressure.

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.