Abstract: This invention relates generally to an implantable containment apparatus made of selectively permeable material. In particular, the implantable containment apparatus is used to contain a therapeutical device, a cell encapsulation device, or a gene therapy device. A therapeutical device can be easily placed and replaced in an apparatus of the present invention without damaging tissues associated with the selectively permeable material of the apparatus.

Abstract: Cell encapsulating devices capable of maintaining large numbers of viable cells are provided containing an inert, substantially cell-free core that displaces cells, a permeable membrane and a zone for maintaining cells. The permeable membrane surrounds the core such that the zone of cells is bounded by the core and the permeable membrane. A preferred device contains a polytetrafluoroethylene permeable membrane and a flexible polymer core having a plurality of ridges and valleys running lengthwise along the core. The cell zone may contain support means for cell attachment and the core may have an outer boundary containing a material that promotes cell adhesion. Preferably, the cell zone has a thickness such that at least about 10% of the cells, more preferably at least about 50% or 80%, in a cell layer located closest to the outer boundary of the core remain viable. The thickness is preferably less than 500 microns such as 25 to 250 microns or 50 to 100 microns.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to an implantable containment apparatus made of selectively permeable material. In particular, the implantable containment apparatus is used to contain a therapeutical device, such as a drug delivery device, a cell encapsulation device, or a gene therapy device. A therapeutical device can be easily placed and replaced in an apparatus of the present invention without damaging tissues associated with the selectively permeable material of the apparatus.

Abstract: An implantable bioabsorbable article for the separation and regeneration of tissue at a tissue defect site in the form of a fibrous matrix laminarly affixed to both surfaces of a cell-barrier sheet material. When implanted it allows ingrowth of tissue into the fibrous matrix side of the material; simultaneously the tissue to be regenerated at the tissue defect site is separated from the ingrowing tissue by the cell-barrier sheet material. A method for making the implantable bioabsorbable article is also described.

Abstract: Cell encapsulating devices capable of maintaining large numbers of viable cells are provided containing an inert, substantially cell-free core that displaces cells, a permeable membrane and a zone for maintaining cells. The permeable membrane surrounds the core such that the zone of cells is bounded by the core and the permeable membrane. The cell zone may contain a support means for cell attachment and the core may have an outer boundary containing a material that promotes cell adhesion. Preferably, the cell zone has a thickness such that at least about 10% of the cells, more preferably at least about 50% or 80%, in a cell layer located closest to the outer boundary of the core remain viable. The thickness is preferably less than 500 microns such as 25 to 250 microns or 50 to 100 microns. The devices are suitable for implantation into an individual in need of treatment and are capable of supplying therapeutic substances to such individuals.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to an implantable containment apparatus made of selectively permeable material. In particular, the implantable containment apparatus is used to contain a therapeutical device, such as a drug delivery device, a cell encapsulation device, or a gene therapy device. A therapeutical device can be easily placed and replaced in an apparatus of the present invention without damaging tissues associated with the selectively permeable material of the apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a cell encapsulation device that permits rapid and straightforward cell transfer into the device. The preferred device includes components that allow a user to quickly transfer cells into the device with minimal risk to the cells. Among the most important improvements of the present invention are: automatic filtration of excess solution during cell transfer; an instantly wettable cover, allowing ready view into the cell chamber; and a swellable core, allowing cells to be transferred with minimal shear force while assuring optimal cell placement in the device during use. The device of the present invention may be used either in vivo, such as to deliver therapeutic substances, or in vitro, such as to serve as a bioreactor.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to an implantable containment apparatus made of selectively permeable material. In particular, the implantable containment apparatus is used to contain a therapeutical device, such as a drug delivery device, a cell encapsulation device, or a gene therapy device. A therapeutical device can be easily placed and replaced in an apparatus of the present invention without damaging tissues associated with the selectively permeable material of the apparatus.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a method of loading and reloading a therapeutical device in a vascularized implantable containment apparatus made of selectively permeable material. Suitable therapeutical devices for use in the present invention include devices such as drug delivery devices, cell encapsulation devices, or gene therapy devices. A therapeutical device can be easily placed and replaced in a vascularized apparatus of the present invention without damaging tissues associated with the selectively permeable material of the apparatus.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to an implantable containment apparatus made of selectively permeable material. In particular, the implantable containment apparatus is used to contain a therapeutical device, such as a drug delivery device, a cell encapsulation device, or a gene therapy device. A therapeutical device can be easily placed and replaced in an apparatus of the present invention without damaging tissues associated with the selectively permeable material of the apparatus.