Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for the controlled release or exposure of reservoir contents. The device includes a reservoir cap formed of an electrically conductive material, which prevents the reservoir contents from passing out from the device and prevents exposure of the reservoir contents to molecules outside of the device; an electrical input lead connected to said reservoir cap; and an electrical output lead connected to said reservoir cap, such that upon application of an electrical current through the reservoir cap, via the input lead and output lead, the reservoir cap ruptures to release or expose the reservoir contents. The reservoir contents can comprise a release system containing drug molecules for release or can comprise a secondary device, such as a sensor. In one embodiment, the controlled release system is incorporated into an implantable drug delivery device.

Abstract: Devices and methods for the controlled release or exposure of reservoir contents, and methods of manufacture thereof, are provided. The device includes a reservoir cap formed of an electrically conductive material, which prevents the reservoir contents from passing out from the device and prevents exposure of the reservoir contents to molecules outside of the device; an electrical input lead connected to said reservoir cap; and an electrical output lead connected to said reservoir cap, such that upon application of an electrical current through the reservoir cap, via the input lead and output lead, the reservoir cap ruptures to release or expose the reservoir contents. The reservoir contents can comprise a release system containing drug molecules for release or can comprise a secondary device, such as a sensor. The controlled release system may be incorporated into an implantable drug delivery or biosensing device.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for wirelessly powering and/or communicating with implanted medical devices used for the controlled exposure and release of reservoir contents, such as drugs or sensors. The device may include a substrate having a plurality of reservoirs containing reservoir contents for release or exposure; and a rechargeable or on-demand power source comprising a local component which can wirelessly receive power from a remote transmitter wherein the received power can be used, directly or following transduction, to activate the release or exposure of the reservoir contents.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices and methods of use are provided for controlled drug delivery. The devices may include an elongated body dimensioned to facilitate minimally invasive and complete implantation into a patient, wherein the elongated body portion comprises a first, closed end portion, a second closed end portion and an intermediate portion disposed between and connected to the first closed end portion and the second closed end portion; two or more discrete reservoirs disposed in the elongated body portion, each reservoir having one or more openings; a drug formulation, which comprises at least one drug, disposed in the two more discrete reservoirs; and reservoir caps closing off the one or more openings of each reservoir, wherein release of the drug in vivo is controlled at least in part by the in vivo disintegration or permeabilization of the discrete reservoir caps.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are provided for wirelessly powering and/or communicating with microchip devices used for the controlled exposure and release of reservoir contents, such as drugs, reagents, and sensors. In one embodiment, the system includes (1) a microchip device comprising a substrate having a plurality of reservoirs containing reservoir contents for release or exposure; and (2) a rechargeable or on-demand power source comprising a local component which can wirelessly receive power from a remote transmitter wherein the received power can be used, directly or following transduction, to activate said release or exposure of the reservoir contents. In another embodiment, the system comprises (1) a microchip device comprising a substrate a plurality of reservoirs containing reservoir contents for release or exposure; and (2) a telemetry system for the wireless transfer of data between the microchip device and a remote controller.

Abstract: A modular system is described for construction of fluid applicators for open or endoscopic surgery from modular components. Lengths of tubing of various lengths, and devices to be carried by said tubing, are pre-fitted with standard adapters to mate with each other, thereby forming cannula sections and applicator sections. Interconnectors may also be provided, particularly for provision of articulation. The tubing is preferably rigid, but may also be either flexible or permanently bendable. A device can then be constructed by selection of a suitable set of tubing lengths, adapters and applicators. Devices customizable for particular uses can be created with minimal expense. The system is especially suitable for delivery of fluids to tissue in endoscopic or other minimally invasive surgical procedures. Delivery of fluids forming structure at a tissue site, especially as a hydrogel, is a preferred use of the devices.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for applying to a surface of mammalian tissue including soft, living tissue an initially fluent material and then activating the material by exposure to an energy source. The material may be a liquid capable of polymerization to a non-fluent state by exposure to actinic light. The device, and methods that may be practiced in association with the device, enable a wide range of medical conditions to be treated including, for example, the application of a barrier to soft tissue to prevent post-surgical adhesions.

Abstract: Microchip device arrays that can conform to a curved surface are provided for the controlled release or exposure of reservoir contents. The arrays comprise two or more microchip device elements, each of which includes a plurality of reservoirs that contain molecules for controlled release or components for selective exposure, and a means for flexibly connecting the device elements. The reservoirs can contain one or more drugs and/or one or more secondary devices, such as a sensor or a component thereof. Preferably, the microchip devices contain and controllably release therapeutic, prophylactic, and diagnostic molecules to and into the eye of a patient in need thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for applying to a surface of mammalian tissue including soft, living tissue an initially fluent material and then activating the material by exposure to an energy source. The material may be a liquid capable of polymerization to a non-fluent state by exposure to actinic light. The device, and methods that may be practiced in association with the device, enable a wide range of medical conditions to be treated including, for example, the application of a barrier to soft tissue to prevent post-surgical adhesions.

Abstract: This invention describes novel methods and devices for stabilizing and retracting tissue during surgery, in particular internal tissue. Patches of material, preferably biodegradable, are adhered to tissue surfaces. By manipulation of the patches, for example directly with forceps, or via sutures attached to the patches, tissues can be retracted or otherwise manipulated with minimal trauma to the tissues. The method is especially useful in minimally-invasive surgery.

Abstract: Methods are provided for hermetically sealing the reservoirs of microchip devices and for hermetically sealing the substrate assemblies in a hermetic packaging structure.

Abstract: A method of producing stable, non-fogging fragrances for automobiles and other vehicular environments. A non-fogging fragrance constructed by combining ingredients individually passing a standard fogging test. Non-fogging solvents identified to maintain a liquid fragrance and prevent freezing at low temperatures. The fragrance chemically stabilized by storage in a tightly sealed container covered with an inert gas. The sealed container also eliminates unwanted vapor emissions in the vehicle. The fragrance is provided on demand as a spray, ensuring delivery with uniform odor integrity over the lifetime of the product.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for applying to a surface of mammalian tissue including soft, living tissue an initially fluent material and then activating the material by exposure to an energy source. The material may be a liquid capable of polymerization to a non-fluent state by exposure to actinic light. The device, and methods that may be practiced in association with the device, enable a wide range of medical conditions to be treated including, for example, the application of a barrier to soft tissue to prevent post-surgical adhesions.

Abstract: Medical devices and methods are provided for electrical stimulation of neural tissue and controlled drug delivery to a patient. The device includes an implantable drug delivery module which comprises a plurality of reservoirs, a release system comprising at least one drug contained in each of the reservoirs, and control means for selectively releasing a pharmaceutically effective amount of drug from each reservoir; a neural electrical stimulator which comprises a signal generator connected to at least one stimulation electrode for operable engagement with a neural tissue of the patient; and at least one microcontroller for controlling operational interaction of the drug delivery module and the neural electrical stimulator. The microcontroller may control the signal generator and the control means of the drug delivery module. The device may further include a sensor operable to deliver a signal to the microcontroller, for example to indicate when to deliver electrical stimulation, drug, or both.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for the controlled release or exposure of reservoir contents. The device includes a reservoir cap formed of an electrically conductive material, which prevents the reservoir contents from passing out from the device and prevents exposure of the reservoir contents to molecules outside of the device; an electrical input lead connected to said reservoir cap; and an electrical output lead connected to said reservoir cap, such that upon application of an electrical current through the reservoir cap, via the input lead and output lead, the reservoir cap ruptures to release or expose the reservoir contents. The reservoir contents can comprise a release system containing drug molecules for release or can comprise a secondary device, such as a sensor. In one embodiment, the controlled release system is incorporated into an implantable drug delivery device.

Abstract: Medical device and methods are provided for controlled drug delivery in a cardiac patient. The device includes an implantable drug delivery module comprising reservoirs containing a drug and a control means for selectively releasing an effective amount of drug from each reservoir; one or more electrodes or sensors for cardiac monitoring, stimulation, or both; and a microcontroller for controlling operational interaction of the drug delivery module and the cardiac electrode. The electrodes may comprise ECG monitoring, cardioversion, or cardiac pacing electrodes.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for mechanically sealing the reservoirs of microchip devices to prevent leakage from or between any of the reservoirs. In one embodiment, the method includes sandwiching a microchip device and a gasket material covering the reservoir openings between a front sealing frame and a backplate, such that the gasket material is compressed against the back side of the microchip device by the back plate. The front sealing frame is secured to the back sealing plate using fasteners or welding. The gasket material is preferably a flexible polymeric sheet, which is biocompatible and compatible with the reservoir contents. In another embodiment, a composite backplate is used in place of the back sealing plate and separate gasket material. The composite backplate can include a substrate having sealing plugs defined thereon. The composite backplate also can be designed to hold the drug, thereby combining the assembly steps of reservoir filling and sealing.

Abstract: Method and devices are provided for extended and controlled delivery of parathyroid hormone to a patient. The method includes implanting a medical device into the patient, the medical device comprising a substrate, a plurality of reservoirs in the substrate, a release system contained in each of the reservoirs, wherein the release system comprises parathyroid hormone; and controllably releasing a pharmaceutically effective amount of the parathyroid hormone from the reservoirs. The parathyroid hormone can be released intermittently, such as once daily over an extended period (e.g., two months, ten months, or more.). The device can further include reservoirs containing a bone resorption inhibitor or other drug for release. The devices are useful in delivering PTH for the treatment and prevention of bone loss, such as associated with osteoporosis.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for applying to a surface of mammalian tissue including soft, living tissue an initially fluent material and then activating the material by exposure to an energy source. The material may be a liquid capable of polymerization to a non-fluent state by exposure to actinic light. The device, and methods that may be practiced in association with the device, enable a wide range of medical conditions to be treated including, for example, the application of a barrier to soft tissue to prevent post-surgical adhesions.

Abstract: A method of producing stable, non-fogging fragrances for automobiles and other vehicular environments. A non-fogging fragrance constructed by combining ingredients individually passing a standard fogging test. Non-fogging solvents identified to maintain a liquid fragrance and prevent freezing at low temperatures. The fragrance chemically stabilized by storage in a tightly sealed container covered with an inert gas. The sealed container also eliminates unwanted vapor emissions in the vehicle. The fragrance is provided on demand as a spray, ensuring delivery with uniform odor integrity over the lifetime of the product.