초록 ▼

Reservoir-based medical devices are provided. In one embodiment, the medical device comprises a substrate; at least two discrete, microfabricated reservoirs provided in spaced positions across at least one surface of the substrate; discrete reservoir caps covering the at least two reservoirs; and co

Reservoir-based medical devices are provided. In one embodiment, the medical device comprises a substrate; at least two discrete, microfabricated reservoirs provided in spaced positions across at least one surface of the substrate; discrete reservoir caps covering the at least two reservoirs; and control circuitry for selectively disintegrating the reservoir caps to open the reservoirs. The reservoirs of the device can include a diagnostic reagent or other molecules useful in medical diagnostics. In one embodiment, the reservoir cap comprises an anode and the control circuitry comprises a cathode and a power source for creating an electric potential between the cathode and the anode. Application of the electric potential causes the reservoir cap to disintegrate, thereby opening the reservoir.

대표청구항 ▼

We claim: 1. A method for local delivery of drug molecules in a patient, the method comprising:implanting at a site in a patient a drug delivery device which comprises a support structure, at least two discrete reservoirs provided in spaced positions across at least one surface of the support struct

We claim: 1. A method for local delivery of drug molecules in a patient, the method comprising:implanting at a site in a patient a drug delivery device which comprises a support structure, at least two discrete reservoirs provided in spaced positions across at least one surface of the support structure, and a release system loaded in each of the reservoirs, the release system including drug molecules dispersed in a degradable matrix material; andallowing the matrix material to disintegrate in vivo to release the drug molecules from the reservoirs to the site in a controlled manner.