Abstract: In the specification and drawings a method and apparatus for delivering a drug into a nasal turbinate or nasal polyp is described and shown, which can include implanting a drug eluting implant into a nasal turbinate or nasal polyp; and leaving the drug eluting material in the nasal turbinate or nasal polyp for at least one day such that a drug is released from the drug eluting implant over a period of time.

Abstract: The invention pertains to apparatuses, means and methods to promote uptake of fluids into a reservoir of an implantable drug delivery system though a porous membrane. Embodiments of the invention promote fluid uptake by creating a pressure differential between the reservoir of the drug delivery device and the environment of the device after implantation, for instance a subcutaneous pocket.

Abstract: A dose request device for a medicament delivery device can include a housing, a dose request button, a short-range non-contact identifier, a communication interface configured to communicate with the medicament delivery device, and a controller. The short-range non-contact identifier can be configured to be capable of reading an identification code from a tag when the tag is disposed within a first range and not to be able to read the identification code from the tag when the tag is disposed beyond a second range. The controller can be configured and programmed to determine whether the identification code read by the short-range non-contact identifier matches any authorized identification code of a set of one or more authorized identification codes, and if so, and if the dose request button is pressed, the controller can then communicate a dose request to the medicament delivery device via the communication interface.

Abstract: An insertion tool for a medical closure device for the sealing of an opening in a wall of a bodily organ includes a tamping force source adapted to deliver a first member to a position at the opening on one side of the wall subsequently to a second member being positioned at the opening on the opposite side of the wall. The tamping force source, which is energized prior to the tamping procedure, can be a spring, an elastic band or a pressurized gas container. A tamping spring can be compressed or extended upon loading. The tamping force source can be released in response to a manual operation or be triggered by retraction of the insertion tool.

Abstract: A ureteral access sheath adapted for insertion into a urethra includes an elongate tube extending between a proximal end and a distal end. A handle assembly is disposed at the proximal end and includes enlarged portions which inhibit migration of the sheath into the urethra. The enlarged portions are shaped like the bell of a horn with a concave, distally-facing outer surface and a convex, proximally-facing inner surface. The inner surface functions as a funnel while the outer surface is sized and configured to receive adjacent fingers of a user's hand held in its natural position. In an associated method, this shape of the handle assembly facilitates maintaining the sheath in a stationary position during insertion and removal of instrumentation. The handle assembly can be movable on the tube to facilitate variation of the sheath length.

Abstract: Drug storage and dispensing devices for dispensing dosage forms to the oral mucosa of a patient are disclosed. The drug storage and dispensing device is a single dose applicator or a device which includes a means to retard or prevent saliva and/or moisture ingress such that the drug dosage forms in the device remain dry prior to administration.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary device (1) for applying at least one active principle inside a human or animal body cavity, said device comprising at least one biodegradable film (3) containing the at least one active substance and an applicator including: a main tubular body (4); and an ejector body (2) comprising a distal portion (202), at least one part of the surface of which forms a support for the at least one biodegradable film (3) and the end (203) of which is rounded, whereby said ejector body (2) can slide inside the main body (4) between at least one position in which the distal portion (202) of the ejector body (2) is located inside the main body (4) and an application position in which the distal portion (202) is located outside same, in the axial extension of the main body (4).

Abstract: Various exemplary embodiments relate to a medicament storage case including: a case body securable to a wall; a door connected to the body; a sleeve to contain an epinephrine injector; a medicament lock including a hook, wherein the hook is positioned to engage the sleeve when in a first position and is positioned to disengage the sleeve when in a second position; an actuator including a solenoid, wherein the solenoid, upon activation, moves the hook from the first position to the second position; a microphone configured to receive first audio as input; a speaker configured to output second audio; a communication unit configured to provide Internet connectivity; a button; and a processor configured to: in response to pressing the button: establish communication between the local user and a remote site, receive an unlock message, and in response to receiving the unlock message, activate the solenoid to release of the sleeve.

Abstract: Drug storage and dispensing devices for dispensing a drug dosage form to a patient are disclosed. A cartridge includes a cartridge housing and a pusher. The cartridge housing defines a channel within which multiple tablets are disposed. The cartridge housing is configured to be removably coupled to a tablet dispensing device. A first portion of the pusher is disposed outside of the channel. A second portion of the pusher is movably disposed within the channel, and is configured to exert a force on the plurality of tablets to convey a first tablet from the channel into the tablet delivery device when the force is exerted on the first portion of the pusher.

Abstract: The invention pertains to an applicator (1) for inserting an implant, in particular a rod-like implant (2) containing an active substance, under the skin of a human or animal, comprising a housing (3), a cannula (6) extending from the housing (3), and a handle (15) for grasping and maneuvering the applicator (1) and the cannula (6) during insertion of an implant (2). In accordance with the invention, the handle (15) extends above at least part of the length of the cannula (6). Such a handle facilitates insertion of the cannula and/or accurate positioning of the implant.

Abstract: An emergency medical device and method is provided for treatment of open wounds by enhancing clotting and arresting hemorrhaging, particularly in the area of the neck, abdomen, chest or groin. The devices includes an elongated delivery tube for insertion into a wound cavity and subsequent delivery of a space filling, sponge-like mass containing a polymerizable liquid sealant that polymerizes upon contact with body fluids after which the delivery tube is removed.

Abstract: A method for transferring a solid body across a surface of a biological body includes (i) applying an electrical input to a controllable electromagnetic actuator; (ii) producing with the electromagnetic actuator a mechanical force corresponding to the electrical input; and (iii) applying the mechanical force to a reservoir coupled at one end to a nozzle, the mechanical force producing a pressure within the reservoir, a magnitude of the pressure varying with the mechanical force and causing ejection of a fluid from the reservoir to drive the solid body into the biological body. A method for delivering a substance to a target body includes (i) positioning a needle-free injector proximate to a surface of the target body; (ii) injecting the substance into the target body; and (iii) while injecting, moving the needle-free injector along the surface, thereby sweeping the surface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an injector device for delivering an implant, the device including a retracting element, a cannula needle, and a plunger. The device may comprise an latch that, when actuated by a user, causes the retracting element to move the cannula needle away from the delivery site, allowing the plunger to eject the implant into the site. The device may be configured for intraocular drug delivery.

Abstract: Systems and methods for administration of small volume sufentanil drug dosage forms to the sublingual mucosa of a subject using a device are disclosed. The dispensing device includes a lock-out feature and a means to retard or prevent saliva and/or moisture ingress such that the drug dosage forms in the device remain dry prior to administration.

Abstract: A method delivers an implantable device through the urethra and into the bladder. A deployment instrument is inserted into the urethra, the implantable device is inserted into the deployment instrument, and a stream of fluid is injected into the deployment instrument. The stream of fluid drives the implantable device from the deployment instrument into the bladder. The deployment instrument is removed from the urethra, leaving the implantable device wholly implanted in the bladder.

Abstract: Drug depot delivery devices and methods are provided for delivering one or more drug depots in close proximity to the nerve of a patient with or without repositioning the cannula. The device includes an electronic monitor for detecting the proximity of the tip of the cannula to a nerve. In some embodiments, a method of delivering a drug depot is provided by detecting the nerve and delivering the drug depot near the nerve.

Abstract: A device (10) for receiving implanted biological material includes a mechanoprotective surface (16) defining an adjacent space, an assembly (26, 28) for locally delivering media to said space, and a pump or slow/sustained release reservoir structure (14) operatively coupled to the assembly. The device may comprise an additional plunger body for being disposed in said space. The implanted biological material may be encapsulated or non-encapsulated.

Abstract: An apparatus for insertion in an ear is provided in one example and includes a drug delivery device for insertion into an external auditory canal, wherein the drug delivery device contains one or more pharmaceutically active agents that can be released from the drug delivery device into the external auditory canal. In more particular instances, the drug delivery device can conform to the profile of the external auditory canal.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for producing a bone-regeneration material. According to the method, a bio-compatible, open-pored body is exposed to a vacuum and osteoinductive and/or osteogenic substances are absorbed into the pores of the body, for example by means of a vacuum generated therein. It is thus possible to produce a bone-regeneration material, which contains osteoinductive and/or osteogenic substances in the pores of the bio-compatible body, said substances acting as a network structure for new somatic cells that are to grow into the porous body.

Abstract: The invention relates to applicators (1) for implantation of an implant, having a cylinder (2) and a plunger (3) displaceably mounted therein, which plunger (3) has a pusher plunger (31) for pushing the implant out of a cannula, the cannula being mounted on a cylinder part, the cylinder part (4) being movably guided in the cylinder (2), there being provided a gear mechanism (5) which couples the plunger (3) to the cylinder part (4), a movement of the plunger (3) relative to the cylinder (2) being converted into an opposite movement of the cylinder part (4).

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel drug delivery technology in the form of solid dose injection devices and methods which utilise a blade that is pushed into the skin to a predetermined depth before the before a solid drug formulation is pushed into the cut made by the blade. Thus the present invention also relates to delivering a therapeutic compound to a human or animal in the form of a solid dose injection comprising: providing an injection device comprising a casing; an actuation mechanism capable of ei generating a force, a blade, a solid drug formulation; and a means for pushing said solid drug formulation; wherein the blade is inser ted to a predetermined depth in the skin and, following insertion of the blade, the device is actuated such that the actuation mechanism capable of generating a force acts on the means for pushing to push the solid drug formulation out of the casing and into the human or animal body.

Abstract: Devices and methods for delivering therapeutic agents use an inverted member to deliver a therapeutic agent with little or no shear stress. The inverted member may have a movable continuous surface, the movable continuous surface having a first section and a second section opposing the first section, the second section surrounding an inner cavity that is configured to hold the therapeutic agent, the inverting member being configured to deliver the therapeutic agent by inverting at least a portion of the second section.

Abstract: Methods and devices to process harvested skin tissue and to immediately reintroduce the ground tissue into the patient to repair a tissue defect are disclosed. A hand-held portable tissue grinder comprising a housing and a grinding element are disclosed. The tissue grinder is used for grinding skin and subcutaneous tissue and includes a sterile polymer housing having a first opening adapted to receive the skin and subcutaneous tissue. The tissue grinder also includes a sterile grinding element disposed substantially within the housing. The grinding element includes a plurality of cutting surfaces adapted to operably engage with the housing to provide ground tissue and further includes a handle mechanism coupled to the grinding element to move the grinding element with respect to the housing to grind the skin and subcutaneous tissue, wherein the ground tissue can be removed from the housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel drug delivery technology. More particularly the invention relates to a method of delivering at least one therapeutic compound or a formulation comprising the at least one therapeutic compound to a patient; to a throwaway or reusable device for delivering at least one therapeutic compound or a formulation comprising the at least one therapeutic compound to a patient in a manner as set out by the method; to a pioneer projectile for use in said method; to formulations for use in said method and to an injectate comprising a pioneer projectile and formulation. It also relates to a disposable component containing either a pioneer projectile or an injectate. The invention also relates to a throwaway or reusable device for delivering at least one therapeutic compound, or a formulation comprising the at least one therapeutic compound (hereafter drug) to a patient, and a method for administering a drug to a patient using said device.

Abstract: Dispensing devices and systems for oral transmucosal administration of small volume drug dosage forms to the oral mucosa are provided. The dispensing device may be a single dose applicator (SDA), or an electromechanical device comprising a means for patient identification such as a wrist worn RFID tag and annular bidirectional antenna together with a lock-out feature.

Abstract: A magazine for chain components of a chain with radiation sources comprises a housing as well as a first means for receiving chain components that is mounted in a pivotal manner in the housing and has recesses for receiving the chain components, a tension spring for driving the means for receiving the chain components, a sprocket being coupled in a pivotal manner to the means for receiving the chain components and being mounted in a pivotal position in the housing, and an ejector for ejection of the radiation sources. Furthermore, the magazine comprises an ejection lever which is mounted in a pivotal manner in the housing, whereby, in a first position, the ejection lever engages the sprocket, and in a second position it blocks the ejector.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a device for delivering an active agent formulation for a predetermined administration period. An impermeable reservoir is divided into a water-swellable agent chamber and an active agent formulation chamber. Fluid from the environment is imbibed through a semipermeable plug into the water-swellable agent chamber and the active agent formulation is released through a back-diffusion regulating outlet. Delivery periods of up to 2 years are achieved.

Abstract: Catheter systems and methods for implanting helical or dart-like implants into the myocardium or other body tissue. The catheter system includes a helix for fixing the distal end of the catheter to the myocardium, an implant held by the helix, mechanisms for driving the fixation helix into the myocardium, and mechanisms for driving the implant into the myocardium, removing the fixation helix and leaving the implant behind. The implant may be coated, filled, or made of a drug or drug eluting compound, or drug delivery matrix of any composition.

Abstract: A method of administering small, bioadhesive drug tablets includes moving an end portion of a delivery member. A surface of the delivery member can be positioned to prevent movement of the drug tablet from a tablet cartridge channel to a delivery passage of a delivery device when the end portion of the delivery member is in a first stopped position. The end portion of the delivery member can be moved to a second position within the delivery passage such that the tablet cartridge channel is in communication with the delivery passage. The drug tablet can be conveyed into the delivery passage via the tablet cartridge channel. The end portion of the delivery member can be moved to a third position within the delivery passage to convey the drug tablet through an exit opening of the delivery device.

Abstract: Medical devices and related methods are disclosed for delivering an implant into the body of a patient. The devices include a damping assembly having an internal chamber with a varying inner diameter, and a piston slideably disposed therein. The piston is operably connected with a catheter portion such that movement of the piston is associated with concurrent movement of the catheter for implant delivery. The varying inner diameter of the damping assembly results in a decrease in damping force during implant delivery, thus providing a substantially constant velocity of implant delivery.

Abstract: A modular injection device for administration of dermal filler compositions is provided. The injection device may include a handheld injector unit including a drive unit, the drive unit configured to apply an extrusion force to a fluid; a control unit remote from the injector unit, the control unit configured to control the drive unit; and a cable configured to connect the control unit to the injector unit.

Abstract: Drug storage and dispensing devices for dispensing a drug dosage form to a patient are disclosed. The dispensing device has a programmable lock-out feature for locking the dispensing device and is capable of detecting the identity of a user. The invention further provides a method for the treatment of subject, by administering to the subject a drug dosage form using a dispensing device of the invention.

Abstract: Rectal suppositories are used to administer a predetermined drug dosage to treat a variety of diseases and symptoms in a variety of patient populations. Certain medical conditions, such as digestive disorders, may be more effectively treated when the suppository is placed in a particular location of the patient's anal canal or rectum. A method and apparatus for inserting a suppository into an animal or human may include an applicator having a barrel and plunger. The barrel maintains a first gas flow path during insertion of a suppository and the plunger maintains a second gas flow path during withdrawal of the plunger. By maintaining the first and second gas flow paths, trapped air and suction effects on the suppository are minimized or eliminated. Furthermore, patients may immediately resume day-to-day activities. These benefits may encourage patients to maintain a course of treatment thereby potentially avoiding additional complications, hospitalization, and costs.

Abstract: An apparatus for percutaneous delivery of a sealant comprising: at least two fluid reservoirs, an introducer needle having a distal tip that is in fluid communication with at least one reservoir, a fluid delivery tube that is in fluid communication with a second reservoir, wherein the fluid delivery tube has a tip and wherein the fluid delivery tube is configured so that the tip of the fluid delivery tube does not extend past the distal tip of the introducer needle during use.

Abstract: The resorbable cryoprobe device and process is a novel approach for treating localized disease allowing for the precise combined application of freezing temperatures and cytotoxic or cryosensitizing agents within a self-contained matrix/package for optimized tissue destruction. The cryopellet is comprised of a list of components including a source of cryogen to produce the sub-zero temperatures, a porous matrix to contain the cytotoxic agent, cytotoxic agent, and a delivery packet. Data presented herein demonstrates the efficacy of this approach in destroying cancerous tissue. For example, the application of freezing temperatures to ?10° C. results in approximately 15% cell death, while exposure to cytotoxic agents such as TRAIL produces minimal cell death. The utilization of the cryopellet approach results in a synergistic effect yielding complete cell death at the same temperature.

Abstract: A method and kit for treating a disc that is leaking nucleus pulposus through at least one defect in the annulus fibrosus. The method includes injecting a fibrin sealant into the disc to reduce at least a portion of the at least one defect, wherein the fibrin sealant injected into the disc comprises fibrinogen and an activating compound, wherein at least a portion of the fibrin forms after injection, with the proviso that a corticosteroid is absent from the fibrin sealant injected into the disc.

Abstract: Novel methods for the chemical ablation of tissue (e.g. prostatic tissue) are described. These methods include the steps of: (a) providing one or more solid salt dosage form comprising 50-100% w/w salt; and (b) inserting one or more of such solid salt dosage forms into the tissue. The solid salt dosage form is optionally inserted into the tissue under real-time ultrasonic observation. An advantage of the present invention is its ability to eliminate toxic byproducts. For example, where NaCl-based solid salt dosage forms are used to effect localized chemical ablation, the concentration is ultimately reduced to the level of normal saline (i.e., about 0.9%) upon absorption by the body of the subject being treated.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for delivering a bioactive agent in a needle track formed in a target tissue mass, following formation of the needle track, by avoiding impingement of the agent against target tissue at high velocity or by using capillary action to draw the bioactive agent out of the needle during needle withdrawal. The apparatus comprises a catheter and a needle disposed within the catheter and configured to be selectively extended into the tissue mass to a predetermined depth, while dispensing the agent simultaneously with retraction of the needle along the needle track. Alternatively, or in addition, the needle may be configured to create a tissue space surrounding a distal or lateral surface of the needle, into which the bioactive agent to be infused.

Abstract: Drug storage and dispensing devices for dispensing a drug dosage form are disclosed. Devices having a housing defining a nonlinear passageway and a flexible push rod to move within the nonlinear passageway are disclosed. Devices having a flexible push rod coupled to a rotation actuating member at at an end portion thereof are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of repairing a defect in an annulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc, without excising the entire nucleus pulposus of the disc. The method includes inserting an introducer needle through the annulus fibrosus by puncturing the annulus fibrosus with the introducer needle, injecting an in situ curable, bio-compatible polymerizable or polymeric material composition into the disc through the introducer needle directly or indirectly so that the in situ curable composition contacts a defect in the annulus fibrosus; and curing said material in situ.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein provide a skin penetrating device and method for the subcutaneous delivery of therapeutic agents in solid form. One embodiment provides such a device comprising an elongated shaft having proximal and distal ends and a skin penetrating element detachably coupled to the shaft. At least a portion of the penetrating element is fabricated from a solid form therapeutic agent composition that dissolves in body tissue and is absorbed into the blood stream so as to produce a therapeutic effect. The penetrating element has shape for penetrating and lodging beneath the skin when inserted through the skin by force applied from the shaft. The penetrating element is configured to detach from the shaft when the shaft is pulled away from the skin so as to leave the element in place beneath the skin where it is absorbed by body tissue and the therapeutic agent is released.

Abstract: An instrument with a covered bore for subcutaneous implantation is provided. An incising body defines a non-circular coaxial bore and includes a sharpened cutting edge that extends from a bottom distal end beyond the opening of the coaxial bore and an attachment point at a top distal end. A plunger is non-fixedly contained within the coaxial bore and slides longitudinally therein. A cover is pivotally attached at the attachment point and extends down to the bottom distal end and, when closed, the cover encloses the opening proximal to the cutting edge.

Abstract: A pellet loading apparatus has a pellet housing configured to receive and hold a plunger so that a cavity is formed by an interior surface of the pellet housing and the plunger. A pellet is located or formed in the cavity. A dispensing chamber housing is located in a disposable drug delivery device. The dispensing chamber housing is configured to couple with the pellet housing so that the plunger and the pellet can be loaded into the dispensing chamber housing.

Abstract: The bioinjection device has a housing including a pistol grip and an elongated barrel. A trigger is pivotally mounted to the housing. A plunger and needle are slidable between a first position in which the plunger and needle are slidably disposed in the barrel and a second position in which the plunger and needle extend from an opening in the end of the barrel. A retaining member is disposed about the opening at the end of the barrel. A spring-biased actuation mechanism connects the trigger with the plunger and needle. A membranous cartridge containing bone morphogenic protein, antibiotics, and/or other medication is loaded into the retaining member. A surgeon can inject the cartridge into a bone fracture or degenerative bone tissue during surgery to deliver the medicament directly to the affected site.

Abstract: An instrument with a two-part plunger for subcutaneous implantation is provided. An incising body defines a non-circular coaxial bore and includes a cutting edge formed on a distal end. A two-part plunger is non-fixedly contained within the coaxial bore and includes a tongue blade assembly and a plunger assembly. The tongue blade assembly is provided on a bottom surface of the coaxial bore and includes a tongue blade shaft and a thin tongue blade with a sharpened clearing edge on a distal end. The tongue blade assembly has a length exceeding the coaxial bore. The plunger assembly has a length exceeding the coaxial bore and includes a plunger shaft and a plunger affixed on a distal end. The plunger is slidably positioned on a top surface of the tongue blade.

Abstract: A catheter-based deployment system for deploying cellular material (22) into the heart muscle (25). The deployment system includes a guiding catheter (19) and a needle assembly (31) capable of sliding within the guiding catheter. The needle assembly (31) terminates in a tip (34) having at least one side with an opening (43) in communication with a lumen (20) disposed within the needle assembly (31). Once the guiding catheter (19) is positioned, the needle assembly (31) is advanced until the tip (34) penetrates the muscle wall (25). At a predetermined depth the cellular material (22) may be deployed into the muscle wall (25) via a push rod (46) disposed through the lumen of the needle assembly (31).

Abstract: A device for delivering a medicated product or the like to a bodily cavity is provided. The device includes a barrel member having a distal end. The barrel member is sized to contain the medicated product. The device includes a plunger sized to extend into the barrel member. A cap is adapted to move between a sealing position, in which the cap is positioned adjacent to the barrel member and seals the distal end of the barrel member, and a dispensing position, in which the cap is moved in a direction away from the barrel member. The cap includes at least one opening sized to allow the medicated product to flow through the cap when the cap is in the dispensing position. A retainer mechanism is provided for retaining the cap on the barrel when the cap is in the dispensing position.

Abstract: The invention provides a drug delivery device for one or more drugs. The device has a drug core which is surrounded by an internal and external sheath. The external sheath has a first cap that is permeable to at least one drug in the core. The first cap may comprise polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and the PVA may be heat cured. In certain aspects, there are one or more additional caps on the ends of the sheaths formed from one or more polymers. In certain aspects, one or more portions of the drug delivery device are substantially impermeable to one or more drugs in the drug core. In certain aspects, the drug elutes through the first cap into a biological environment. The invention further provides methods for manufacturing the drug delivery device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cell transplantation device which is capable of inserting cells for transplantation into a cell-deficient site without application of direct external force to the cells. The present invention discloses a cell transplantation device provided with a plate-type carrier with at least one pass-through hole formed on its side surface, a linear member to be threaded through the pass-through hole, and a pusher member which engages with the linear member that comes out from each exit of the pass-through holes.

Abstract: Rectal suppositories are used to administer a predetermined drug dosage to treat a variety of diseases and symptoms in a variety of patient populations. Certain medical conditions, such as digestive disorders, may be more effectively treated when the suppository is placed in a particular location of the patient's anal canal or rectum. A method and apparatus for inserting a suppository into an animal or human may include an applicator having a barrel and plunger. The barrel maintains a first gas flow path during insertion of a suppository and the plunger maintains a second gas flow path during withdrawal of the plunger. By maintaining the first and second gas flow paths, trapped air and suction effects on the suppository are minimized or eliminated. Furthermore, patients may immediately resume day-to-day activities. These benefits may encourage patients to maintain a course of treatment thereby potentially avoiding additional complications, hospitalization, and costs.