IMPLANTABLE DRUG ELUTING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a system for injecting a drug eluting construct in a patient. The construct includes multiple cellular based microcaspules, wherein the multiple cellular based microcapsules create at least one of a plurality of layers or sections of microcapsules joined together to comprise an implant. There is a medicinal agent within the microcapsules. A syringe and needle inject the implant constructed of microcapsules into the patient at least one of during and after a surgical procedure. The medicinal agent controllably releases into the patient both immediately and at a delayed time.

Claims

1. A method of treating joint pain in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising: injecting an implantable drug eluting composition into a joint site of the subject, wherein the implantable drug eluting composition comprises biodegradable microcapsules comprising a steroid, wherein the microcapsules are comprised of a biodegradable polymer selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, and copolymers thereof, wherein the composition provides for delayed release of the steroid, and wherein the composition is injected in the presence of synovial fluid.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the joint site is a site of at least one of a foot, ankle, hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, knee, and spine of the subject.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the joint site comprises a site of the knee of the subject.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the microcapsules are comprised of a copolymer of polylactic acid and polyglycolic acid.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising cooling the implant prior to injection.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is provided for injection as a cooled composition and upon injection the composition is heated, which facilitates release of the steroid.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises a dispersion of the microcapsules.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the dispersion comprises a carrier material comprising at least one of water, gel, and a nonaqueous solvent.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable polymer degrades in a biological material or fluid.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the composition reduces fibrosis and/or inhibits at least one of formation of adhesion, scar tissue, and exogenous bone.

11. A method of treating pain and/or inflammation in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising: injecting an implantable drug eluting composition into a joint or tendon site of the subject, wherein the implantable drug eluting composition comprises biodegradable microcapsules comprising a steroid, wherein the microcapsules are comprised of a biodegradable polymer selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, and copolymers thereof, wherein the composition provides for delayed release of the steroid, and wherein the composition is injected in the presence of synovial fluid.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the joint or tendon site is a site of at least one of a foot, ankle, hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, knee, and spine of the subject.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the joint or tendon site comprises a site of the knee of the subject.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the microcapsules are comprised of a copolymer of polylactic acid and polyglycolic acid.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising cooling the implant prior to injection.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein the composition is provided for injection as a cooled composition and upon injection the composition is heated, which facilitates release of the steroid.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein the composition comprises a dispersion of the microcapsules.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the dispersion comprises a carrier material comprising at least one of water, gel, and a nonaqueous solvent.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein the biodegradable polymer degrades in a biological material or fluid.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein the composition reduces fibrosis and/or inhibits at least one of formation of adhesion, scar tissue, and exogenous bone.

21. A delayed release delivery system for reducing pain and/or inflammation at a joint or tendon site of a subject, the system comprising: implantable drug eluting composition comprising a dispersion comprising a carrier material and biodegradable microcapsules comprising asteroid, wherein the microcapsules are comprised of a biodegradable polymer selected from the group consisting of polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, and copolymers thereof, wherein the carrier material comprises at least one of water, gel, and a nonaqueous solvent, wherein the composition is provided for injection as a cooled composition and upon injection the composition is heated, which facilitates release of the steroid, and wherein the composition provides a prolonged analgesic effect.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the microcapsules are comprised of a copolymer of polylactic acid and polyglycolic acid.

23. The system of claim 21, further comprising a syringe at least partially filled with the composition.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] A more complete understanding of the present disclosure, and the attendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0040] FIG. 1 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example an operating field including anatomical elements of a body.

[0041] FIG. 2 is an additional illustration of an embodiment of FIG. 1, for example, including a substance in the operating field.

[0042] FIG. 2A is an additional illustration of an embodiment of FIG. 1, for example, including a substance positioned with respect to a blood vessel.

[0043] FIG. 3 is an additional illustration of an embodiment of FIG. 1, for example, after a portion of the substance has been removed.

[0044] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including an endoscopic procedure.

[0045] FIG. 5 is an additional illustration of an embodiment of FIG. 1, for example, including a spray.

[0046] FIG. 6 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a dressing.

[0047] FIG. 7 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including adhesives and/or cement.

[0048] FIG. 8 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a cuff

[0049] FIG. 9 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a balloon.

[0050] FIG. 10 is an additional illustration of an embodiment of FIG. 9.

[0051] FIG. 11 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a balloon positionable between tissues.

[0052] FIG. 12 is an additional illustration of the embodiments of FIG. 11.

[0053] FIG. 13 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a balloon with heating elements.

[0054] FIG. 14 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a balloon with a heat or cold pack and/or a component.

[0055] FIG. 15 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a balloon with a channel and/or an inlet.

[0056] FIG. 16 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a tool.

[0057] FIG. 17 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including an implant.

[0058] FIG. 18 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including an implant with an inlet, outlet, and/or channel.

[0059] FIG. 19 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including an implant with a heating element.

[0060] FIG. 20 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, including a spinal procedure.

[0061] FIG. 21 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, an implant including micro capsules.

[0062] FIG. 22 is an additional illustration of an embodiment of FIG. 21.

[0063] FIG. 23 is an illustration of an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, an implant including a spacer and/or sponge.

[0064] Specific features of various embodiments may be shown in some drawings and not in others, but this is for convenience only. Any feature in any drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0065] Referring now to the figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, FIG. 1 illustrates a surgical operating field 10, in this illustration in the neck 12 of a patient, however in accordance with the invention, the surgical field could be anywhere in the body. Retractors 14a-d contact cut skin tissue 16, and maintain tissue 16 apart, creating operating field 10. As a result, an area of surgical interest 18 is created, containing one or more anatomical elements 20a-b upon which a surgical procedure is to be carried out.

[0066] With reference now to FIG. 2, in accordance with the invention, a surgical field is filled with a viscous substance 22, illustrated by boundary line 24, hatched reflection lines 26, and the blurring or optically less clear view of operating field 10. Viscous substance 22 includes a gelatin or a polymeric solution, which serves to retard or block the ingress of blood from blood vessels in cut skin tissue 16 and other tissue 24 within the surgical field, which may also contain cut tissue and blood vessels. With reference to FIG. 2a, viscous substance 22 surrounds and adheres to the cut ends 16a of cut blood vessels 16b. The viscous substance may be optically clear, or may introduce some optical distortion as shown in FIG. 2, however some visualization of the surgical field remains, whereupon surgery may take place through viscous substance 22, as by inserting the surgeons hands (not shown) or surgical tools into viscous substance 22, as can be seen in the prongs of retractors 14a-d, and as can be seen in FIG. 4, discussed below.

[0067] Alternatively a portion, in some cases the majority of viscous substance 22 immediately surrounding the area of interest 18 may be removed, as by manipulation and/or irrigation, so that an unobscured field of view, and an unobstructed target area are realized. In FIG. 3, boundary line 24 indicates an exterior boundary, and after a portion of viscous substance 22 has been removed, inner boundary line 28 indicates an interior boundary. Viscous substance 22, for example gelatin or polymeric gel, at the periphery of field 10 is left intact, particularly viscous substance 22 which is in direct contact with cut tissues 16,24, whereby viscous substance 22 may continue to retard entry of blood into operating field 10.

[0068] Viscosity of viscous substance 22 is advantageously in a range whereby the substance will effectively adhere to bodily tissue, without running off or dispersing during the surgical procedure, or at least, not having to be reapplied repeatedly. This represents a centipoise or cP value of at least 25. A viscosity that is too high will impose difficulties in spreading the substance on body tissue without imposing too much pressure on the tissue, typically not higher than 2,500. Values in the range of 200 to 1500 cP are advantageously employed for most body tissue. It should be understood that these values are provided as illustrative, and that features of the viscous substance as described, that is of not dispersing too quickly, or imposing too much difficulty in spreading, determine ideal viscosity for the viscous substance, based on the body tissue and application, as best determined by the surgical practitioner.

[0069] Viscous substance may be any of a wide variety of substances with the desired viscosity and biocompatibility, including gelatin, gel polymers, biocompatible lubricants, water based lubricants, silicone based lubricants, viscous degradeable polymers, and other materials described herein.

[0070] With reference to FIG. 4, the aforedescribed process in accordance with the invention may be used in both endoscopic (FIG. 4) and open incision (FIGS. 1-3) procedures. In FIG. 4, trocar introduces carbon dioxide gas into abdomen 32, facilitating the introduction and manipulation of endoscopic instruments, here laparoscopic tools 34, 36. In accordance with the invention, viscous substance 22 is placed around surgical tools 30, 34, 36 at the point of entry into abdomen 32, where skin has been cut or pierced. As the tools are inserted into the body, viscous substance 22 is driven downwards through cut skin 16 into the body, by a spreading force imparted by the surface of tools 30, 34, 36, whereby cut blood vessels inside the incision or piercing are coated with viscous substance 22 to attain the benefits as described herein. In addition, an endoscopic tool, such as tool 36, may be used to introduce viscous substance into the interior of the body, whereby it may be injected, pumped, sprayed, or brushed into contact with cut, damaged or disturbed tissue 16a. In the example shown, viscous substance 22 covers a portion of operating field 10, and the entire area of interest 18, whereby the working ends 34a, 36a of tools 34, 36 are beneath the surface of viscous substance and completely enveloped within viscous substance 22. In this manner, while there may some loss of visual clarity, the loss is offset by having the area of interest 18 substantially less obfuscated by blood.

[0071] With reference to FIG. 5, in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, surgical field 10 is sprayed with a cooling substance 38 to cool operating field 10 and cut tissue 16 sufficiently to achieve vasoconstriction, and thus reduce blood flow temporarily while the viscous substance is being applied. Cooling substance 38 may additionally be applied adjacent to the operating field, to promote vasoconstriction in surrounding tissues, and thus reduce blood flow in surgical field 10. In the example shown, a spray can 40 is illustrated, whereby substance 38 cools as it leaves can 40, due to a change of pressure. Alternatively, can 40 may be chilled prior to use. While a spray can is illustrated, it should be understood that any means of spraying is contemplated by the invention, including separate pumps, reservoirs and sprayer nozzles (not shown). Cooling substance 38 includes sterile air or water, or other substance which is biocompatible. In addition, in accordance with the invention, cooling substance may advantageously comprise viscous substance 22, although a more robust sprayer than a spray can would typically be required. Cooling substance 38 may additionally incorporate a vasoconstrictive biologic agent, such as but not limited to adenosine triphosphate, amphetamines, antihistamines, catecholamines, endothelin, ergine, methylphenidate, neuropeptide Y, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, epinephrine, marcaine or thromboxane.

[0072] Depending upon the material used, viscous substance 22 may additionally be treated with heat, as by warm air, or cooled, as by cool spray or cool air, or alternative exposed to UV light, in order to be cured or hardened, made more durable, and caused to adhere with greater strength to cut blood vessels in cut tissue.

[0073] With reference to FIG. 6, in a further embodiment of the invention, a dressing 42, formed with UV, heat or cold setting viscous substance 22 is applied postoperatively to a surgical closure 44, providing good support to healing tissue through adhesion, and protection from infection by forming a closely conforming barrier that is impermeable to microorganisms.

[0074] The viscous substance may be formed to contain agents which aid healing or provide other therapeutic benefit, particularly substances which reduce the incidence of the formation of adhesions, which are discussed in greater detail below. Additional agents include blood clotting agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, steroidal agents, analgesics, morphine, lidocaine, other anesthetics, calcium, thrombin, hyaluronic acid, and epinephrine, and other therapeutic agents described herein.

[0075] With reference to FIG. 7, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the introduction of a viscous substance produces a distinct advantage when working with surgical adhesives and cement 46, such as bone cement. When cement 46 is applied, as by applicator 48, it is common for a quantity of cement 46a, 46b to escape into surrounding tissue. Removal of this cement can be a time consuming process, and introduces additional risk, particularly during kyphoplasty (illustrated) and other work proximate delicate tissue. When the surrounding tissue is coated with viscous substance 22, particularly gelatin or lubricants, the removal of cement is greatly facilitated. In the example depicted, cement 46b has fallen directly onto bone 50, whereupon tools (not shown) and considerable force must be applied for removal. Should the surgical practitioner slip, grave injury may result. In contrast, cement 46a has fallen upon a substrate of viscous substance 22, and because viscous substance 22 is easily sheared, the hardened cement 46a is easily removed with greatly reduced risk to the patient

[0076] As described above, the immediate surgical field may be cooled to promote vasoconstriction, and thus reduce blood flow and blood loss. In accordance with the invention, as shown in FIG. 8, all or a portion of a limb 52 may be partially or completely surrounded by cuff 54 which is operative to squeeze the limb, and thus act as a tourniquet, while simultaneously cooling blood flowing into the limb. In the embodiment shown, cool gas or liquid, such as air or water, passes from a chiller (not shown) through inlet hose 56, through inlet 56a communicative with internal channel 60, through internal channel 60 to outlet 58a, thence through outlet hose 58 either to be recirculated or exhausted. Postoperatively, or as the surgeon deems beneficial, warmed gas or liquid may be passed through cuff 54 for therapeutic benefit, or for the comfort of the patient.

[0077] The device of FIG. 8 presents the surgeon with the opportunity to reduce the degree to which the limb must be squeezed, as the limb now additionally experiences vasoconstriction as a result of the cooling of blood vessels. Thus the trauma to muscle tissue through the physical crushing pressure and localized loss of blood flow imposed by tourniquet action is reduced.

[0078] The temperature of gas or liquid flowing through the cuff may be adjusted by either a mechanical or computer interface, or by the surgical practitioner during surgery. Temperature control in this manner is particularly useful for limb salvage surgery. The foregoing apparatus and method may advantageously be combined with epinephrine, marcain, or any of the other vasoconstrictive agents mentioned herein.

[0079] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, and with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, a balloon 62 is placed within surgical field 10, operative to apply pressure to bleeding tissue. Balloon 62 is formed of any biocompatible elastomeric polymer, such as rubber, latex, and synthetic rubber compounds. Balloon 62 is inflated either before or after placement within the surgical field. Where the balloon is inserted before inflation, inflation pressure is advantageously used to distract, retract, or otherwise displace tissue. In the example illustrated, cut skin 16 and other bodily tissue is pressed, for example at region of greatest pressure 64. The balloon may be sized to span the entire surgical field, whereby pressure is applied to at least two sides of the field, as is illustrated in FIG. 9. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 11, balloon 80 may be wedged between tissue within the field, such as bone 82 or soft tissue, and bleeding tissue 16, 24. In addition, multiple balloons may be used.

[0080] In another embodiment of the invention, and with particular reference to FIG. 10, balloon 62 is caused to harden after inflation, whereupon portions of the balloon which are not engaged with bleeding tissue 16, 24, and which are not needed for support, are excised. In the illustration, a portion represented by oval 66 has been removed from the exterior portion of the balloon, after which, a portion illustrated by oval 68 is removed, whereby the surgical area of interest 18 is revealed, exposing anatomical elements 20c-e. Where it is desired to leave the remaining balloon portion within the body for a period of time, balloon 60 may advantageously be fabricated with a biodegradable material. Hardening is accomplished by coating the balloon with viscous substance 22, such as a gelatin or gel polymer, which is set or cured by cooling, heating, or exposure to UV light, as described herein. In this manner, viscous substance 22 is disposed proximate the bleeding tissue, and imparts the blood loss reduction benefits, and other therapeutic benefits, described herein.

[0081] Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, as described above, balloon 80 is sized and shaped to advantageously fit in a part of the space within surgical field 10. In the example shown, the balloon is pressed between trochlear groove 84 of femur 86 and cut tissue 16, obscuring a portion of trochlear groove 84. Upon hardening, a portion of balloon 80 is cut at 88 to expose an additional area of trochlear groove 84. Balloon 80 remains in position against cut tissue 16 through adhesion of viscous substance 22 to cut tissue 16, 24, as well as by support from remaining hardened balloon portion 90.

[0082] With reference to FIG. 13, in one embodiment, heating elements 92 are disposed on or within balloon 94. Elements 92 may comprise metallic or ferrous material that is heated by radiofrequency energy (RF) during and or after surgery to produce heat by induction. Alternatively, elements 92 may be connected to a source of electricity, particularly during surgery, and caused to generate heat through electrical resistance or other known means.

[0083] Alternatively, heat or cold is created by disposing chemical heat or cold packs 96 within balloon 98. Packs 96 designed to generate heat or cold upon snapping or breaking a barrier or enclosed container 100 between separated chemical components, such as components 102, 104, as known in the art, are conveniently deployed within the balloon for this purpose. To produce cold, an endothermic reaction takes place between chemical components 102, 104, and an exothermic reaction between components 102, 104 produces heat. Balloon 98 may be filled with a liquid or gas, including water or air, selected for its ability to transmit the temperature change produced by pack 96 to the surface 106 of the balloon, and to generate an even temperature on the surface 106 of balloon 98.

[0084] Similarly, component 102 may be contained within balloon 98, itself as opposed to pack 96. In this manner, container 100 is disposed within balloon 98, and is broken to produce the temperature change reaction. Container 100 may alternatively be replaced by a wall or other barrier formed within balloon 98. Further, component 104 may be injected into a balloon 98 which contains component 102; in an amount calculated to produce the appropriate amount of temperature change.

[0085] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, as can be seen in FIG. 15, balloons 110 are provided with at least one channel 112 for conducting hot or cold flowable materials, such as liquids or gases. Flowable material of desired temperature enters inlet 114, and passes through channel 112, changing the temperature of the surface of balloon 110, and eventually exiting at outlet 116. Flowable material exiting outlet 116 may be discarded, or may be recirculated, as known in the art.

[0086] Additionally, balloons in accordance with the invention, including balloons 62, 80, 94, 98, 110 may be inflated and deflated during the surgical procedure, as by passage of a liquid or a gas through a valve 108, in order to gain access to different areas of surgical field 10, or to restore compression to bleeding tissue 16, 24. The compressive force is adjusted by varying the internal balloon pressure, or the force with which the balloon is wedged within the surgical field. In endoscopic procedures, balloons are inserted in a deflated state, as by passage through tool 30 or 36, and inflated once positioned. Advantageously, inflation pressure is only slightly higher than capillary pressure, whereby any burden on contacted tissue is minimized.

[0087] Balloons may be inflated with a gas or a liquid. Where the balloon is to be cut open, or is vulnerable to being pierced or broken, a biocompatible material, such as filtered air or sterile water, is of benefit.

[0088] In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, and with reference to FIG. 16, retractor 120 and other tools used within the surgical field are advantageously heated or cooled. As tools are commonly fabricated using metal, such tools may be heated or cooled prior to use. Alternatively, tools in accordance with the invention, for example retractor 120 having a channel 122 for the conduction of heated or cooled flowable material, such as a liquid or gas, are advantageously deployed. Cooled tools contribute to vasoconstriction, and may additionally be coated with gelatin or polymer gels, with attendant benefits, as described above. Tools in accordance with the invention may additionally be heated by RF radiation or heating elements, as described with respect to balloons 94, 98 of FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0089] In the example shown in FIG. 16, flowable material enters inlet 124, and travels through channel 122, adjusting the temperature of retractor 120, including tissue contacting portion 128 by conduction, eventually exiting at outlet 126.

[0090] As described for balloons and tools, above, an implant may similarly be heated or cooled, as well as coated with viscous substance 22, as described above. With reference to FIG. 17, implant 130, in this example a knee implant to be attached to resected femur 132, is coated with viscous substance 22. In accordance with the invention, the formation of postoperative adhesions is reduced due to the viscosity of viscous substance 22, and to its role as a barrier between disturbed or damaged tissue. Further, a substance known to reduce the formation of adhesions, including synovial fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, hyaluronic acid, or other materials described herein, is admixed into viscous substance 22, whereby a dual or synergistic substance anti-adhesion effect is obtained.

[0091] With reference to FIG. 18, implant 134 is advantageously provided with an inlet 136, outlet 138, and channel 140 for cooling or heating, as described herein. In addition, intramedullary rod 142 connected to implant 134 includes a segment of channel 140 (not shown), whereby temperature adjusted flowable material, advantageously cooled material, passes down the interior of intramedullary rod 142, thus cooling the interior of femur 132, and thereby reducing blood loss through vasoconstriction, and/or increasing the viscosity of blood through cooling.

[0092] In addition, with reference to FIG. 19, implant 144 is provided with heating element 146, controllable during surgery, or operative once an implant is secured and scaled within the body. After surgery, heat is advantageously introduced to reduce postoperative pain, and to accelerate healing. Heating may be accomplished by dielectric or induction heating, or other means not requiring an electrical connection, as described herein.

[0093] With reference to FIG. 20, a spinal implant 148 is implanted within disc space 150. Implant 148 may be provided with heating and cooling as described elsewhere herein for implants. In addition, implant 148 may be coated with viscous substance 22, as described above, to provide the therapeutic benefits described herein. Viscous substance 22 is additionally applied to cover a portion of implant 148 exposed to overlying tissue (not shown), which may have been damaged or disturbed during surgery. Further, tissue adjacent the implant has been damaged or disturbed. It has been found that adhesion formation is particularly a problem where separate tissue areas which have been disturbed or damaged, as by being abraded or cut, come into contact during healing, wherein adhesions form between the separate tissue areas. In accordance with the invention, viscous substance 22 interposed between separate tissue areas, reduces the formation of adhesions.

[0094] A medical implant in accordance with the invention can be fabricated, for example, with biodegradable polymers, cellular based materials, or other biodegradable material. The implant may additionally include a plurality of layers, each including biologic agents as described herein. Each of the multiple layers may contain the same biological agent, or medicinal agents. A treatment protocol may require that different dosages of the medicinal agent or different composition of the medicinal agent be released at different times during the treatment protocol, an immediate release vs. a delayed/retarded release. Microcapsules containing the agent or medicament are additionally contemplated, either forming one or more layers, or forming the entire implant. Implants advantageously include bone spacers or other bone implants, where the formation of adhesions can be particularly problematic. The implant can additionally be located in any other joint of the body not discussed herein, including the foot, ankle, hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand.

[0095] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the devices and methods described above may be combined with increasing the atmospheric pressure in the operating room, in the patient, or within the surgical field, thereby further reducing blood loss.

[0096] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the various coatings of viscous substance 22 are electrically charged to cause vasoconstriction, and/or to create a diffuse cauterization of the bleeding portions 16, 24 of the surgical field 10.

[0097] In a further embodiment of the invention, blood clotting or coagulation products are admixed into the coating of viscous substance 22, whereby the viscous substance effectively maintains the products in close conformity to the cut ends 16a of cut blood vessels 16b.

[0098] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, a combination of therapeutic substances may be administered to the patient, cooperative with the devices and methods of the invention, to increase the overall efficacy of the procedure. These may be delivered before or after surgery, and may be timed release. Additionally, any implanted device, balloon or other implant, in accordance with the invention, may be formulated to be drug eluting, either through incorporation into the gelatin or gel matrix which coats the device, as described above, or by formulating the device to contain therapeutic substances which are released by known means, including biodegradation.

[0099] In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, system or local pH is made more alkaline, in order to decrease the caustic effect of bleeding, thus protecting soft tissue and decreasing pain.

[0100] As discussed briefly above, and will be more particularly described below, the present invention provides a method of using a biologic agent to inhibit scar formation, in particular, surgical adhesions and exogenous bone formation. The biologic agent is biodegradable and is thus reabsorbed over a period of time. The biologic agent can be used to prevent or inhibit the formation of adhesions in an animal following any type of surgery or trauma, by applying an effective amount of the biologic agent to a wound site.

[0101] The wound site refers to a site of tissue that has been injured in any manner, e.g., through surgery, contusion, abrasion, and so forth, and also refers to tissues or organs that arc adjacent to the injured tissue. For example, the biologic agent may be used to prevent or inhibit adhesions that form in relation to intestinal surgery, e.g., bowel resection, hernia repair, etc., which may cause obstruction of the intestine. The biologic agent may also prevent or inhibit adhesions or exogenous bone formation that can form near a bone fracture site, joint repair or replacement site, the formation of which may reduce or hinder the normal movement of the area of repair by restricting the natural movement of tendons over adjacent bone.

[0102] The biologic agent may be included with a composition within a carrier material, e.g., water, gel, or a nonaqueous solvent. To aid in healing, the composition can additionally include a medicinal agent. Exemplary medicinal agents include drugs, enzymes, proteins, hormones, peptides, glycoproteins, or diagnostic agents such as releasable dyes which may have no biological activity per se.

[0103] Examples of classes of medicinal agents that can be used include antimicrobials, analgesics, antipyretics, anesthetics, antiepileptics, antihistamines, anti-inflammatories, anti-clotting agents, bone morphogenic proteins, cardiovascular drug, diagnostic agents, sympathomimetics, cholinomimetics, anti-muscarinics, antispasmodics, hormones, growth factors, muscle relaxants, adrenergic neuron blocks, anti-neoplastics, immunosuppressants, gastrointestinal drugs, diuretics, steroids and enzymes. It is also intended that combinations of medicinal agents can be used.

[0104] In addition to or as an alternative to, the medicinal agent may be a therapeutic agent. Examples of such agents include, but are not limited to, hormones, cells, fetal cells, stem cells, bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs), enzymes, proteins, RNA, germicides, gene therapy substances, cell therapy substances, viruses, etc.

[0105] In one embodiment of the invention, the biologic agent is synovial fluid. The synovial fluid can be harvested from the patient prior to or during the surgical procedure by known techniques. Alternatively, the synovial fluid can be harvested from a donor.

[0106] Alternatively, the biologic agent is cerebrospinal fluid. The cerebrospinal fluid can be harvested from the patient prior or during the procedure by known techniques. Alternatively, the cerebrospinal fluid can be harvested from a donor.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 20, an exemplary surgical site or field 10 is provided. The surgical field 10 can be, as examples, intestinal, cardiac, or joint sites. During and or after the surgical procedure, the biologic agent 152 is applied to the surgical field 10 by any convenient mode 154, including admixed into viscous substance 22 as described above.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 21, the biodegradable implant 156 may be made up of a plurality of layers or sections 158, each including the biologic agent 152. The biologic agent 152 is released as the layers 158 of the biodegradable implant degrade. The degradation rate of the biodegradable implant 156 can be controlled by the ratio of PLA to PGA, or by the thickness or density of the layers 158, or interposed layers 160.

[0109] Each of the multiple layers may contain the same biological agent 152 as well and a medicinal agent. The medicinal agents (and/or the composition of the agents) in each of the multiple layers may be the same or different. A treatment protocol may require that different dosages of the medicinal agent or different composition of the medicinal agent be released at different times during the treatment protocol, an immediate release vs. a delayed/retarded release. The multiple-layers, each containing different dosages of the medicinal agents or different compositions of the medicinal agents, allow for the controllable release of the differing medicinal agents during the protocol.

[0110] Referring again to FIG. 21, the medical implant 156 includes at least one layer of micro capsules 162. The biologic agent 152 is contained within the micro capsule 162. The micro capsules 162 may be bonded to the medical implant 156 with a biodegradable agent, such that as the biodegradable agent degrades, micro capsules 162 are released. Similarly, the micro capsules 162 may be made of a biodegradable material, such that as the micro capsules 162 degrade, the biologic agent 152 will be released.

[0111] Alternatively, as can be seen in FIG. 22, the medical implant 164 may be made entirely of micro capsules 162 bonded together. The bonded microcapsule 162 can be appropriately shaped and sized depending on the intended area of use. The micro capsules 162 may be bonded together with a biodegradable agent, such that as the biodegradable agent degrades the micro capsules 162 are released. Similarly, the micro capsules 162 may be made of a biodegradable material, such that as the micro capsules 162 degrade the biologic agent 152 will be released.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 23 the medical implant 166 is a spacer or sponge. The biologic agent 152 is incorporated in the medical implant 164, for insertion into the surgical site. The biologic agent 152 seeps from the medical implant 164 to the surrounding tissue. Additionally, the biologic agent 152 can be applied to the surrounding tissue as described above.

[0113] The medical implant 166 can be a biodegradable implant. The biodegradable implant 166 hydrophilically reacts to release the biologic agent 152. The biodegradable implant 166 is made of a biodegradable polymer, polyactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and copolymers thereof collagen, cellulose, fibrin, autograft, allograft, or other cellular based compounds. The biologic agent 152 may be affixed to the biodegradable implant by coating, mixing, or bonding techniques.

[0114] Referring back to FIG. 20, in an alternative embodiment, implant 148 is a joint spacer, for changing the spatial relationship between first and second bones 168, 170, and incorporates biologic agent 152 as described above. The medical implant 148 includes a body configured and dimensioned for insertion into a joint 150 located between the first and second bones 168, 170. As discussed above the biologic agent 152 is incorporated into or coated on the implant 148. The biological agent 152 inhibits the formation of adhesion, scar tissue, or exogenous bone that would limit the movement of the first and second bones 168, 170, or that might otherwise cause pain or discomfort. Additionally, the biologic agent 152 can be applied to the surrounding tissue as described above.

[0115] Implant 148 can be a temporary spacer, left in position for a set time period, upon expiration of which the implant 148 is removed and/or replaced. For example, in younger patients, not suitable candidates for spinal fusion, implant 148 is inserted between the effected vertebrae, to stabilize the spinal area for a period of time. At the expiration of the time period, patient is evaluated. The implant 148 is then removed and, if required, replaced.

[0116] Alternatively, the implant 148 is made of a biodegradable material. The biologic agent 152 is incorporated in biodegradable implant 148, for insertion in between the vertebrae. The biologic agent 152 seeps from the biodegradable interveltebral spacer 22 to the surrounding tissue. Additionally, the biologic agent 152 can be applied to the surrounding tissue as described above.

[0117] In another embodiment in accordance with the invention, implant 148 hydrophilically reacts to release the biologic agent 152. Implant 148 is made of a biodegradable polymer, polyactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA) and copolymers thereof collagen, cellulose, fibrin, autograph, allograph, or other cellular based compounds. The biologic agent 152 may be affixed to the biodegradable implant by coating, mixing, or bonding the biologic agent to the biodegradable intervertebral spacer 22.

[0118] Referring again to FIG. 21, the implant 148 may be made of a plurality of layers or sections 158, each including the biologic agent 152. The biologic agent 152 is released as the layers 158 of the biodegradable implant degrade. The degradation rate of the biodegradable implant can be controlled by the ratio of PLA to PGA, or by the thickness or density of the layers, as described above.

[0119] All references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0120] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described herein above. In addition, unless mention was made above to the contrary, it should be noted that all of the accompanying drawings are not to scale. A variety of modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.