IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE WITH BENEFICIAL AGENT CONCENTRATION GRADIENT

摘要

A method of forming an implantable medical device configured to release at least one therapeutic agent therefrom comprises disposing the therapeutic agent in a matrix affixed to a body of the implantable medical device, wherein a concentration of the at least one therapeutic agent in the matrix varies as a continuous gradient relative to a surface of the implantable medical device body, the method comprising: forming a homogeneous solution comprising a polymeric binder and a solvent; evaporating the solvent in the homogeneous solution, thereby forming a matrix; exposing the matrix to a solution comprising the therapeutic agent for a time sufficient to produce a partial diffusion of the therapeutic agent into the matrix such that the concentration of the therapeutic agent varies in the matrix; and affixing the matrix to the implantable medical device body.