Patent ID: 6179826
Filing Date: 2001-01-30
Classification: A61F,A61K,A61M,B01J,C12N

Abstract:
A method for delivering a biologically active factor to a patient, comprisingintroducing through the bore of a single cannula into the subarachnoid space of a spinal column at least one vehicle comprising a biocompatible semipermeable outer membrane and which encapsulates cells that produce the biologically active factor, wherein the cannula is adapted for penetration through tissue, the cannula having a bore with a substantially smooth surface running axially therethrough through which a vehicle may slidably move, an open, proximal end into which the vehicle may be slidably inserted and a distal end having an opening through which the vehicle may slidably move wherein the external diameter and bore diameter are tapered toward the distal tipwhereby the biologically active factor is released from the cells through the semipermeable membrane of the vehicle into the central nervous system of the patient.