The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 11, 1999
Filed:
May. 21, 1997
Mark D Butler, Flagstaff, AZ (US);
Paul D Drumheller, Flagstaff, AZ (US);
Stanley L Mish, Flagstaff, AZ (US);
Gore Hybrid Technologies, Inc., Flagstaff, AZ (US);
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a cell encapsulation device that permits rapid and straightforward cell transfer into the device. The preferred device includes components that allow a user to quickly transfer cells into the device with minimal risk to the cells. Among the most important improvements of the present invention are: automatic filtration of excess solution during cell transfer; an instantly wettable cover, allowing ready view into the cell chamber; and a swellable core, allowing cells to be transferred with minimal shear force while assuring optimal cell placement in the device during use. The device of the present invention may be used either in vivo, such as to deliver therapeutic substances, or in vitro, such as to serve as a bioreactor.