Abstract: An implantable flow regulator (22) for regulating flow of a drug along a drug delivery pathway (14) from a drug source to a treatment site within a subject includes a movable diversion member (24) and an actuator. The movable diversion member (24) is operably coupled to a delivery pathway (14). The actuator is actuatable to move the diversion member (24) between at least a first mode position where the diversion member (24) restricts flow through the delivery pathway (14) (i.e., delivery pathway is “closed”), and a second mode position where the diversion member (24) is position to allow flow through the delivery pathway (14) (i.e., delivery pathway is “open”). Supplying power to actuate the actuator moves the diversion member (24) from its normally biased first mode or “closed” position, which is also a failsafe position, toward its second mode or “open” position. In the “open” position, drug is supplied to target sites, typically from a drug supply reserve within the regulator.

Abstract: An implantable flow regulator (22) for regulating flow of a drug along drug delivery pathway (14) form a drug source to a treatment site within a subject includes a movable diversion member (24) and an actuator. The movable diversion member (24) is operably coupled to a delivery pathway (14). The actuator is actuatable to move the diversion member (24) between at least a first mode position where the diversion member (24) restricts flow through the delivery pathway (14) (i.e., delivery pathway is “closed”), and a second mode position where the diversion member (24) is positioned to allow flow through the delivery pathway (14) (i.e., delivery pathway is “open”). Supplying power to actuate the actuator moves the diversion member (24) from its normally biased first mode or “closed” position, which is also a failsafe position, toward its second mode or “open” position. In the “open” position, drug is supplied to target sites, typically from a drug supply reserve within the regulator.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a self contained control patch for an implanted medical device, comprising a housing capable of being removably associated with an external surface of a patient, a transmitter for transmitting at least one of a transcutaneous power signal and a transcutaneous control signal to an implanted device; and a pre-programmed storage device containing at least one control program, wherein the control program dictates the nature of the signal from the transmitting means. Additionally, the present invention is directed to a system of such patches comprising two or more patches, with each patch being pre-programmed with a discrete set of instructions. Methods for using the patches are additionally disclosed.

Abstract: This process consists of machining a silicon piece (4) by means of selective oxidation operations and photolithography to form therein at least one cavity (7, 12) adapted to contain or convey a fluid, and of oxidizing the wall of the cavity to make this hydrophilic. The device is completed by fixing closing plates (1, 5) to its body thus formed. Prior to the machining operations the surfaces of the piece (4) adapted to be in contact with the closing plates (1, 5) are covered with a screening layer that resists these machining operations. Then, after these have been completed, the surfaces of the piece intended to be exposed to the fluid are oxidized to form therein an oxide layer favoring the wettability of these surfaces. The screening layer is then removed and the closing plates are fixed to the piece.The invention has applications, notably in micropumps.