Abstract: An apparatus and methods of use thereof, the apparatus comprising: a medical device, configured to reside and to be manipulated within a first lumen; and a driving system, configured to manipulate—and/or control—the medical device, via a second lumen. The driving system comprising: a catheter, configured to be inserted into—and to navigate—or to be navigated—within the second lumen; and a driver, configured to travel within the catheter, and to remotely manipulate—and/or control—the medical device residing in the first lumen.

Abstract: A method for providing localized treatment at a target site in the brain of a patient is provided. The method comprises providing a system comprising a miniature device configured to carry one or more therapeutic components for performing the treatment, and an external system configured to direct the miniature device; inserting the miniature device to a starting location within the patient; operating the external system to direct the miniature device to travel along an access path from the starting location to the target site; and administering the therapeutic component at the target site. A system for performing the method is further provided.

Abstract: A system for facilitating performing a therapeutic activity at a predetermined treatment site in a patient is provided. The system comprises an elongated miniature device extending along a longitudinal axis spanning between a distal cutting end formed with a sharp cutting portion, and a blunt proximal abutting end. The elongated body comprises a substantially non-convex bottom surface extending substantially between the cutting end and the abutting end. The system further comprises a driving device configured to generate a varying magnetic field to remotely control motion of the miniature device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions of a dried rapid-release high concentration oligonucleotide-loaded PEG hydrogel-based matrix, methods for formulating hydrogel matrix-encapsulated oligonucleotides in an amount that exceeds the oligonucleotides intrinsic solubility in water or aqueous media, the hydrogel matrix-encapsulated oligonucleotides produced by the described methods, and therapeutic methods for using the dried rapid-release high concentration hydrogel matrix-encapsulated oligonucleotides for systemic and local micro-delivery.

Abstract: A miniature device configured to be maneuvered within a patient under manipulation by an external magnetic field and to selectively perform a predefined function is provided. The miniature device comprises a shell defining therewithin an internal cavity, and a magnetic arrangement disposed within the cavity. The miniature device is configured such that the magnetic arrangement, within a rotating magnetic field, effects one of performance of the function and propulsion of the miniature device within the patient, and, within a magnetic field gradient, effects the other of performance of the function and propulsion of the miniature device within the patient.

Abstract: A miniature device is provided for use in a system configured to deliver a therapeutic component to a treatment site in a patient. The miniature device comprises at least one steering portion comprising a magnetic material, and at least one carrier portion affixed to the steering portion and comprising the therapeutic component. The carrier portion is configured to at least partially dissipate under one or more predetermined conditions at the treatment site, thereby releasing the therapeutic component. Further provided is a system comprising one or more such miniature devices and a magnetic inducing apparatus configured to be operated to generate a varying magnetic field, thereby remotely controlling motion of the miniature device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for safely and reliably accessing a subarachnoid space (SAS) or other target area of a patient is provided in which a tube having at least one lumen with a tissue puncture device therein is inserted into the patient near the tissue. The lumen has a suction port at one end adapted to suction the dura/arachnoid tissue away from the pia mater so that the tissue can be punctured to access the SAS space. The movement of the needle in the lumen is controlled by controlling a magnetic field. Tissue puncture devices for use alone or in connection with the apparatus are also provided.

Abstract: A carrier device and methods of use are described. The device and methods are directed toward implanting in biological tissue and for releasing a medical payload or functional material in biological tissue according to a remote magnetic trigger. The carrier device has a cavity with an opening through an external surface of the device. The carrier device includes at least one moveable, magnetic element sensitive to a magnetic field gradient. When a magnetic field gradient, rotating magnetic field, or uniform magnetic field, or a combination of thereof is applied to the tissue, the moveable magnetic element provides release of the medical payload or functional material through the cavity opening. In some embodiments, payload release can be started, stopped, and restarted at a later time or place. In addition to payload release, devices of this invention are equipped with a propelling element, the propelling element is responsive to external stimuli that enables propulsion and navigation of the device.

Abstract: A propelling device and methods of use thereof. The device is configured to propel through a medium, using external magnetic stimuli applied thereon; the device comprises: a propelling-element and a magnet in communication with the propelling element. The magnet is configured to respond to the applied magnetic stimuli and to rotate the propelling-element; the propelling-element is configured to convert rotary motion thereof into translation motion, and thereby to propel the device through the medium.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for imaging and tracking of nano- and micro-scale objects with acceptable latency for relevant medical procedures, such as delivery of therapeutic payload or minimally invasive surgery are disclosed, including the capability to superimpose accurate anatomical data over a tracking image. Software applications are provided for data logging via a remote-control station; and software interface with remote motion control mechanism, controlling the motion of internal device.

Abstract: An insertion and retraction device is described for delivery and removal of a microparticle from target tissue. The device comprises a magnetic or magnetizable needle or cannula having a distal end, a proximal end and a lumen adapted to convey microparticles; a tubular catheter receiving the needle or cannula; a pressure device adapted for delivery of microparticles through the needle or cannula lumen by pressure; a magnetic field modulator adapted to move the needle or cannula by modulation of a magnetic field; and a magnetic sensor positioned toward the distal end of the tubular catheter responsive to a magnetic moment of the microparticle.