摘要 |
A drug or gene therapy solution delivery system including a balloon catheter having a balloon associated with a distal end of the catheter, the balloon having an exterior surface and comprising: a plurality of microencapsulated spheres containing a drug or gene therapy solution, the microencapsulated spheres being disposed about the exterior surface of the balloon so as to rupture upon application of a predetermined pressure to the balloon. In one embodiment, the microencapsulated spheres are encapsulated in a coating applied to the exterior surface of the balloon. In another embodiment, the microencapsulated spheres are extruded in the balloon. In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a drug or gene therapy solution delivery system including a stent, the stent comprising: a plurality of microencapsulated spheres containing a drug or gene therapy solution delivery solution, the microencapsulated spheres being disposed about the exterior surface of the stent so as to rupture upon radial expansion of the stent by a predetermined amount. |