IMPLANTABLE POLYMER FOR BONE AND VASCULAR LESIONS

Abstract

A solidifying implant composition of a polymer mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent. A method of treating a patient, by implanting the solidifying implant composition into bone, and solidifying the implant composition. A method of improving bone structure in patients by applying the solidifying implant composition to bone, shoring up bone structure, and improving load bearing capacity and aiding healing of microfractures. A method of fixing an implant, by applying the solidifying implant composition to an implant, and shoring up the implant. A method of devascularizing and treating a tumor or vascular lesion. A method of treating a vascular disease. A method of treating aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to compositions and methods of treating bone fractures. In particular, the present invention relates to compositions made of polymers and ceramics for treating bone fractures, lesions, voids, and temporary or permanent fixation of implants. Additionally, the present invention relates to compositions made of polymers for treating vascular lesions and visceral fistulas.

[0003] 2. Background Art

[0004] Progressive loss of bone density or thinning of bone tissue are characteristics of osteoporosis, the most common type of bone disease affecting 10 million Americans. Although regular exercise with daily intake of vitamin and mineral supplements can help alleviate the symptoms of osteoporosis, they do not provide wholesome treatment to those experiencing osteoporosis-induced fractures. The early stages of this disease yield little to no symptoms; however, as the disease progresses to late stage, patients begin to experience various symptoms, including: low back pain, bone pain, fractures with little to no trauma, and kyphosis. Bone mineral testing quantitatively measures bone density within a patient. These tests can accurately predict the risk for bone fractures in the future. From these tests, high-risk patients can be prescribed a variety of different medications, including, but not limited to: bisphosphonates, calcitonin, hormone replacement therapy, parathyroid hormone, raloxifene, or advised regular exercise with a balanced, nutritional diet.

[0005] Although these medications and routine changes can help prevent fractures, it cannot reverse pre-collapsed vertebrae, or regenerate large quantity bone defects created by trauma, infection, skeletal abnormalities or tumor resection. The aforementioned problems go beyond normal potential for self-healing within the bones; therefore, clinical treatment becomes necessary.

[0006] Clinical treatment for collapsed vertebrae includes vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. Within vertebroplasty, physicians inject a cement mixture into the fractured segment of the vertebrae, whereas in kyphoplasty, a balloon is inserted before cement injection to create a cavity or space. Once the balloon is removed, the cement can be injected into the cavity. Although these clinical procedures allow the patient to regain functional abilities without pain, they carry various risks with them as well, including: risk of infection, risk of orthopedic cement leakage out of vertebral body that can cause pulmonary edema if cement migrated to the lungs, secondary fracture of the adjacent vertebra if cement leaks into the disk space, and neurological symptoms if cement leaks onto spinal nerves.

[0007] Clinical treatment for trauma-induced, infection-induced, osteoporosis-induced or tumor-induced fractures includes insertion of one or more screws across the fracture point, insertion of a steel plate held by screws across the fracture point, insertion of a long metal rod driven down the shaft of the bone, or, in severe cases, bone grafting and joint replacement will be considered. The most common problem that arises from osteoporosis-induced fractures is failure of fixation of the aforementioned screws, metal plate, or rod due to the decreased bone density in the osteoporotic patient.

[0008] Surgeons attempt to decrease failure of fixation by reinforcement of the surgical prosthesis with bone cement. This cement fills in the void between the prosthesis and the bone.

[0009] Currently, bone cements are supplied as two-component materials. One component consists of a powder; the second component consists of a liquid. The powder component is made from, but not limited to, poly(methyl-methacrylate) (PMMA), PMMA with various salt additives, calcium phosphate, and bioactive glass substitutes. The liquid component is made from, but not limited to, a stabilizer, an inhibitor, and a MMA monomer. These two components are mixed together in a certain ratio under vacuum-sealed conditions. Once the mixture is homogeneous, the bone cement is injected into a void and allowed to harden.

[0010] The optimal bone cement has properties that mimic natural human bone that include, but are not limited to, cement pore size between 50 microns to 150 microns, high pore connectivity, osteoconductive properties, and comparable Young's modulus to that of natural bone.

[0011] The disadvantage of current PMMA based bone cements is their physical properties, lack of osteoconductivity, and resorption. This prevents the PMMA from being properly integrated into the bone, and instead, the PMMA is encapsulated by a connective tissue layer. Furthermore, PMMA based bone cements require relatively high temperatures of 82.5 degrees C. while setting. Surrounding tissues exposed to such high heat undergo thermal tissue necrosis. Additionally, PMMA based bone cements are known to have a Young's modulus greater that of natural bone, therefore, natural stresses experienced by the bone during motion induced by the patient are loaded into the cement, rather than the bone. When the natural bone stops receiving mechanical signals from daily movement by the patient, bone remodeling comes to a standstill and worsens osteoporotic weakening of the bone. This can lead to a revision surgery. The difficulty and length of the revision surgery is increase by the difficulty in removing current bone cements.

[0012] The disadvantage of PMMA infused with various salt additives has similar disadvantages as aforementioned for sole PMMA based bone cements.

[0013] The disadvantages of calcium phosphate based bone substitute include, but are not limited to, large pore size, and low Young's modulus. Pore size of 230 microns was found in various calcium phosphate based bone substitute. Although macroporosity (pores>100 microns) is important for osteoconductivity and revascularization, pore sizes of 230 microns have fewer interconnected pores, and therefore, have suboptimal osteoconductivity. Furthermore, large pore sizes within calcium phosphate based bone substitute yield poor compressive strength, and therefore, low Young's modulus. This poor compressive strength will not adequately stabilize bone or implants in loadbearing applications, and therefore would lead to failure because these bone substitutes are not load-bearing prior to bone regeneration.

[0014] The disadvantage of bioactive glass substitutes includes, but is not limited to, poor resorption in natural bone. Although bioactive glass substitutes possess superior mechanical strength, varying pore sizes between 50-150 microns, and high connectivity between pores, the substitute has a poor resorption rate, and therefore, the natural bone has hindered growth.

[0015] There are several challenges with current liquid embolic technologies. Frequently embolization of vascular lesions is required to treat, reduce blood flow prior to or following incomplete surgical treatment of various vascular diseases. Currently, there are not effective treatments available or available treatments options are dangerous, painful, and debilitating. The available methods for endovascular treatment of vascular lesions are often ineffective and require numerous re-treatments. The buildup of radiopaque material from multiple injections, large injections, or subsequent embolization procedures makes imaging and safely navigating the vascular lesion more difficult, takes longer, and limits the imaging options. Difficulty visualizing the vascular lesion leads to increased procedural times, radiation dose to the patient and surgical staff, and treatment cost. Patients frequently get radiation burns and lose hair from the prolonged exposure.

[0016] Current devices approved for treatment and/or occlusion of venous varices, vascular tumors, and traumatic vessel injury are awkward, lack control, and are often incomplete or require multiple treatments. Endovascular treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations often does not completely and durably occlude the lesion. More invasive and dangerous treatment with open neurovascular surgery or single, high dose stereotactic radiation (which may be incompletely effective, or require a significant therapeutic interval during which the patient is not protected from cerebral hemorrhage) can be required for these patient who cannot be completely and durably treated by minimally invasive methodologies. Endovascular devices and surgical repair of aneurysms may not completely and durably occlude certain lesions and may require retreatment.

[0017] The radiopaque materials used in embolic agents can spark and ignited the embolic material in the patient during surgical resection. Surgeons frequently use mono cautery during open surgical procedures. The mono cautery initially causes the radiopaque particles to spark followed by the embolic material catching on fire. The fire can last for several seconds after the surgeon stops using the cauterization.

[0018] The solvent volume used in current liquid embolic agents is not safe or compatible for many procedures. The current product, Onyx, uses DMSO at concentration from 94% to 80% by molecular weight. DMSO affects nerves by inhibiting cholinesterase. The effect of DMSO on nerves is typically seen after a vessel is occluded; when the DMSO concentration builds up in the surrounding tissue. DMSO can also cause an acute tissue response. This was demonstrated when Onyx did not meet the FDA requirement of a USP 7-day muscle implant evaluation because implantation resulted in an acute tissue response. DMSO can cause spontaneous skeletal muscle fasciculations. Making visualization difficult for the surgeon and causing pain for the patient. These procedures are converted to an intubated procedure increasing the risk and cost of the treatment. DMSO ability to lower the vagal threshold could be a cause of the bradycardia seen when using Onyx near the valgus nerve.

[0019] Open surgical treatment is dangerous, debilitating and more costly. Currently, no optimal and safe device exists for endovascular treatment for many arteriovenous malformations, arteriovenous fistulae, or visceral and/or viscerocutaneous fistulae.

[0020] Therefore, there remains a need for a method for developing a bone cement, scaffold, which caters to the aforementioned problems with current bone cement technologies and aims to incorporate: a broad range of drug-eluting properties including using nano-particle for delivery, infusion of radio-opaque components, biodegradability of the bone cement, improved load bearing functionality, and elimination of the two-component dry and wet based system for mixing bone cements. Furthermore, there remains a need for a treatment for vascular diseases that is less invasive, allows for more precise control, improved visibility, and more efficacious treatment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The present invention provides for a solidifying implant composition for treating fractures, lesions, voids, and temporary or permanent fixation of implants including a polymer mixed with a biocompatible solvent.

[0022] The present invention also provides for a method of treating a patient by implanting the solidifying implant composition of a polymer mixed with a biocompatible solvent into bone, and solidifying the implant composition.

[0023] The present invention provides for a method of improving bone structure in patients by applying the solidifying implant composition of a polymer mixed with a biocompatible solvent to bone, shoring up bone structure, and improving load bearing capacity and aiding healing of microfractures.

[0024] The present invention provides for a method of fixing an implant, by applying the solidifying implant composition of a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent to an implant, and shoring up the implant.

[0025] The present invention provides for a method of devascularizing a tumor or vascular lesion by applying the solidifying implant composition of a polymer mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent to a tumor or vascular lesion.

[0026] The present invention also provides for a method of treating a vascular disease by applying the solidifying implant composition of a polymer mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent to vascular site in need of treatment.

[0027] The present invention also provides for a method of treating aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms by applying the solidifying implant composition of a polymer mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent to an aneurysm/pseudoaneurysm.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The present invention provides a solidifying implant composition for treating fractures, other bone conditions, and vascular diseases, generally including polymeric material mixed with a polar biocompatible solvent.

[0029] Before insertion into the body, the composition is in the form of an injectable fluid or a malleable paste. The composition solidifies when placed in contact with living tissue or liquid by absorption and diffusion of the solvent into the surrounding tissue or liquid, such that solidification is preferably temperature independent. However, solidification can also be temperature dependent.

[0030] The polymeric material (polymers and copolymers) used in the composition can include, but is not limited to, acrylics including polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene UHMW (ultra-high-molecular-weight) and PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) (implants, artificial joints), polypropylene, polyesters, polybutylene terephtalate (PBT), VECTRA® Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) (Ticona), polyetherekketone (PEEK-), polystyrene mono- and copolymer, polybutadiene mono- and copolymer, polyvinyl alcohol mono- and copolymer, polyamides (nylon), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic-lactic acid (PGLA), polyurethanes, calcium phosphates, calcium sulphates, hydroxyapatite, silicates, bioactive glasses, diacetonylacrylamide, polylactides, polydioxannones, polycarbonates, polyalkene oxylates, polyanhydrides, polyamides, polyesteramides, polyurethanes, polyacetals, polyketals, polyorthocarbonates, polyphosphazenes, polyhydroxyvalerates, polyalkylene succinates, poly(malic acid), poly(amino acids), Chitin, Chitosan, polyorthoesters, polyhydroxybutyrates, polyethylene glycol, porous silicon, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and copolymers, terpolymers, and combinations of the above polymers. Multiple polymeric materials can be used in the composition in combination with a single solvent or multiple solvents as futher described in the Examples below.

[0031] The solvent used in the composition is any solvent that can dissolve the polymeric material and water, including water itself, is biocompatible and preferably bioabsorbable (i.e. able to be absorbed by the body), and can include, but is not limited to, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), acetone, 2-butanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, methyl acetate, dimethylformamide, caprolactam, oleic acid, 1 propanol, 2-propanol, propyl acetate, propylene glycol, glycerol, or any solvent analogous/homologous to dimethyl sulfoxide, and combinations thereof. The solvent can be in excess to dissolve polymers and other materials and yield variable viscosities that enhance ability to sculpt product to unique clinical situations that are present in each individual patient. When mixed, the solvent and polymer can form a hydrogel, aerosol gel, or other gel. The solvent can also optionally additionally include other solvents that are not bioabsorbable.

[0032] The composition can further include radiopaque or radioactive isotope materials and particles such as, but not limited to, Tantalum, Platinum, Barium, Titanium, Silver, Gold, Palladium, Iridium, Osmium, Copper, Niobium, Molybdenum, Strontium and Gallium and/or alloys such as Nickel-Titanium, Nickel-Manganese-Gallium, Platinum-Iridium and Platinum-Osmium, and combinations thereof to enhance visualization of the injected material (act as contrast agents) and improve the structural integrity and performance of the implant. Visibility of these materials can degrade over time.

[0033] The composition can also further include a catalyst such as Platinum, Palladium, peroxide, metal salts, Zinc, enzymes, redox couples, or combinations thereof to increase the speed of polymerization.

[0034] The composition can further include suspended particles of micro- or nano-scale biologically active material for localized targeted or non-targeted delivery. The biologically active material can be therapeutic agents or combinations of therapeutic agents such as proteins, drugs, or other agents. For example, antibiotics such as Vancomycin, Amikacin or Tetracycline and/or metals such as Silver or Copper can be included to prevent infection at an area to which the composition is applied. The biologically active material can be released specifically at the site of implantation of the composition. Thus, the composition can be used for site-specific delivery of therapeutic agents to stimulate or aid in bone healing such as bisphosphonates and hydroxyapatite. Pain relief therapeutics can be included such as paracetamol (acetaminophen), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and COX-inhibitors. Cancer treatments can also be included such as chemotherapeutics agents such as Methotrexate and inhibitors of cancer growth such as Gallium. These biologically active materials can be delivered buffered within the implant solution or within micro- or nanoparticles suspended within the implant.

[0035] The composition can further include biodegradable polymers, such as polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic-lactic acid (PGLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), ε-poly-L-lysine (EPA), glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), polyalcohols, heparinoids, and combinations thereof that can initially prevent blood from clotting, provide cohesiveness and improve control during injection, create avenues for enhanced in-growth of supporting cells and improve healing by stimulating tissue ingrowth as they are degraded over time, and providing a mechanism for delivering targeted therapeutics via chemical attachment to side groups.

[0036] The composition can further include polymeric, ceramic or metal fibers, filaments, coils, or particles, or combinations thereof, such as microparticles or nanofibers, which can increase structural and mechanical integrity, flexibility, durability, and cohesiveness of the resulting implant. Examples of ceramics are hydroxyapatite, calcium silicate, tri-calcium phosphate, biphasic calcium phosphate, or kaolin providing scaffolding for cellular in-growth and enhancing osseointegration.

[0037] The composition can also further include a liquid contrast agent such as Ethiodol, and/or a powder such as Tantalum and/or Barium Sulfate, and/or an alloy such as Nickel-Titanium to enhance visualization of the material during implantation.

[0038] The implant composition can be prepared by methods known in the art by mixing the polymeric material with the solvent and optionally any of the other compounds as described above. Many other materials can be added to provide the final composition with additional properties. Metals such as Tantalum and/or contrast agents such as Ethiodol can be added to the polymeric material and mixed immediately prior to injection, such as with Trufill n-Butyl Cyanoacrylate. Additionally, metals such as Tantalum can be added to the polymeric material during manufacture and agitated vigorously to suspend the metal immediately prior to injection, such as with Onyx Liquid Embolic System for brain arteriovenous malformation and Onyx HD for brain aneurysm treatment. Additionally, various components such as polymeric material monomer, a contrast agent such as powdered Barium Sulfate, and antibiotics such as gentamicin can be added together and mixed injected. Furthermore, a first polymeric material (and optionally additional different polymeric material) can be mixed with a first solvent, and then a second, different polymeric material (and optionally additional different polymeric material) can be added with or without additional solvents as described in the Examples below.

[0039] The composition of the present device can be delivered in self-contained, single use, sterilized packaging that may need to be agitated to suspend metal contrast material prior to delivery.

[0040] The composition of the present invention can create an implant that provides support, stability, load bearing and fixation for fractures while at the same time dampening stress to prevent fracture of adjacent boney structures and allow controlled movement of the fractured bone that promotes faster and stronger healing of the fractured bone. Once solidified, the composition acts as a scaffold for ingrowth and regeneration of bone tissue. The implant is capable of mimicking bone, vascular, and other tissue. The implant can be permanent, or can be biodegradable, or bioabsorbable. The composition of the present invention thus overcomes many of the drawbacks of compositions of the prior art.

[0041] The solidified composition possesses mechanical properties, which are improved upon the prior art for the applications of bone stabilization. The composition can have a structure such that is possesses compressive strength within the range of 10-500 MPa, it possesses elastic modulus between 0.1-100 GPa, and it possesses yield strength within 0.5-10 MPa. These properties improve strength, while dampening--but not entirely removing--stress to prevent weakening (stress shielding) and fracture of adjacent boney structures and allow controlled movement of the fractured bone that promotes faster and stronger healing of the fractured bone.

[0042] The consistency of the composition can be similar that of the natural tissue to absorb and decrease transfer of energy in order to promote normal function in the adjacent tissue. The consistency also allows surgical handling when the device is used as an adjunct to surgery.

[0043] The composition can have a structure that facilitates pore formation within and upon the surface of the implant within a range of 1-1000 μμm (target mean pore size 50-150 μm) and <10 μm, respectively, in order to facilitate osteoblast ingrowth and protein absorption.

[0044] The solidified composition can possess degradation properties that facilitate the ingrowth of new tissue formation or release of therapeutics. These properties, such as the rate of degradation, can be controlled by material selection and pore sizes, connectivity, or volume to match degradation with bone growth or desires therapeutic release.

[0045] The composition is suitable for uses such as, but not limited to, vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, void filling, bone stabilization, or stabilization of nonresorbable materials in contact with bone (fixation screws or implants) in mammals.

[0046] The composition of the present invention improves upon substances used in the prior art for other purposes for new applications discussed herein. A combination of a polymer and a solvent has been used in the past for other applications such as treating cerebrovascular diseases, specifically brain arteriovenous malformations and aneurysms, but the materials that are available are not cohesive and therefore are not effective for long-term treatment of fractures because they fall apart under stress. Hydroxyapatite has been used in similar applications, but lacks structural integrity to resist compression during load bearing. The composition of the present invention integrates the beneficial properties of disparate substances to provide a whole that is greater than the sum of the parts: each component supports the other components and yields a composite that combines the strength of each material while eliminating the inherent individual weaknesses. Thus, the composition of the present invention is a synergistic composition.

[0047] The composition of the present invention also provides the following additional advantages. The opacity of the material of the composition can diminish over time. When made to be radiopaque, the material can be delivered in particles, spheres, or liquids that degrade over time decreasing the radio density. The radiopaque material can be in suspension. This can include using nanoparticles to aid in the dissipation of the radiopaque material of a PEG or other polymeric material. The radiopaque material can lose its radiopacity over time. The composition of the present invention is a better liquid embolic than the prior art. Also, the combined the benefits of using a solvent to deliver a polymeric material with a thermal responsive polymeric material or hydrogel decreases the volume or change the solvent needs, increases the control of the material and cohesiveness of the material, improving the effectiveness and safety of endovascular embolization.

[0048] The present invention provides for a method of treating patients, including all types of mammals, by implanting the composition of the polymeric material mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent into bone as described above, and solidifying the implant composition. The implantation or application of the composition can occur by methods that are routine in surgical procedures for orthopaedics, such as vertebroplasty or fixing fractures. The composition can be administered in various ways, but preferably the implantation is performed by injecting the composition to the site of need. Hence, viscosity, absorption of solvent, etc. are critical parameters that can be adjusted depending on the use and environment. The composition can be premixed prior to injection, can be mixed in the injector device, can be mixed during injection, mixed in situ or a combination of these methods during the injection process. When mixed in situ, the composition and other components are caused to be mixed right at the site of application in the body. The composition can be injected with a needle with gauges including, but not limited to, down to a 22 gauge.

[0049] In the solidifying step, as described above, the implant composition can be solidified upon contact with surrounding tissue or liquid by absorbing and diffusing the solvent into the surrounding tissue or liquid. After the solvent has absorbed and diffused away, pores are formed in its place within and on the surface of the implant composition. Additionally the composition can be solidified using a cross linker, curing agent, enzyme, a thermosensitive polymer, or combination of the above or similar curing methods. The implant can remain in the body permanently, or it can be biodegradable or bioabsorbable.

[0050] This method can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions in procedures, such as, but not limited to, vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, void filling, bone stabilization, or stabilization of nonresorbable materials in contact with bone (fixation screws or implants) in mammals.

[0051] Currently, there is no available product or method that addresses all types of bone fractures. This method can be used to treat bone fractures that can include, but are not limited to, bone fractures, osteoporotic bone fractures, compression fractures, stress fractures, pathological fractures, non-union fractures, complex fractures, displaced fractures, and poor-healing fractures.

[0052] The composition can also further absorb and distribute stress to prevent fatigue and fracture of adjacent bone. These characteristics improve durability of the implant composition.

[0053] The composition can also be used in a method of improving bone structure in patients, by applying the composition to bone, shoring up bone structure and improving load bearing capacity and aiding healing of microfractures. The composition can also be temporarily stabilized after the bone structure has been shored up. By this temporary stabilization, subsequent procedures can be made less difficult. The composition can be applied either by injecting the composition into or coating the composition on the bone or an implant. Preferably, this method is used to treat patients that are suffering from severe osteoporosis, metastases, or other bone lesions at risk of catastrophic failure. The solidified composition can remain in the body permanently, or it can be biodegradable or bioabsorbable.

[0054] The composition can further be used in a method of fixing an implant, by applying the composition to an implant, and shoring up the implant. This method can be useful for stabilizing implants in the body. The solidified composition can remain in the body permanently, or it can be biodegradable or bioabsorbable.

[0055] The composition of the present invention can further be used in a method of devascularizing a tumor or vascular lesion, by applying the composition including a polymeric material mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent to a tumor or vascular lesion. The tumor or vascular lesion can also further be treated with additional therapeutics, such as, but not limited to, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or other cancer therapeutics.

[0056] The composition can further be used in vascular applications. The composition can also be used to address vascular diseases that currently have no effective or inadequate endovascular treatment options or improve upon existing endovascular treatment options. The composition can be applied to any area of a vascular site in need of treatment. This use can be applicable to endoleaks that occur following endovascular repair of aortic aneurysms, aneurysms, spinal and body arteriovenous malformations and fistulae, cerebral and spinal dural arteriovenous fistulae, traumatic vessel injury (traumatic vascular lesion), venous varices, visceral and/or viscerocutaneous fistulae and vascular tumors and improve treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations.

[0057] More specifically, the composition can be delivered into the space that is filled by blood or other body fluids and track along those avenues to find and fill the in-flow and out-flow of endoleak sacs, arteriovenous malformations and fistulae and varices at various sites in the body including the brain and spinal cord and their lining tissues, other organs and muscles, and viscera, or abnormal connections between viscera and skin.

[0058] Therefore, the composition of the present invention can also be used in a method of treating aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms by applying the composition including a polymeric material mixed with a bioabsorbable solvent to an aneurysm/pseudoaneurysm.

[0059] There are several advantages to using the composition of the present invention in vascular applications. The composition can provide less invasive treatment of these very difficult lesions. The composition can also allow more precise control, improved visibility, time dependent radiopacity, and more efficacious treatment of these lesions.

[0060] The compounds of the present invention are administered and dosed in accordance with good medical practice, taking into account the clinical condition of the individual patient, the site and method of administration, scheduling of administration, patient age, sex, body weight and other factors known to medical practitioners. The pharmaceutically "effective amount" for purposes herein is thus determined by such considerations as are known in the art. The amount must be effective to achieve improvement including but not limited to improved survival rate or more rapid recovery, or improvement or elimination of symptoms and other indicators as are selected as appropriate measures by those skilled in the art.

[0061] In the method of the present invention, the compound of the present invention can be administered in various ways. Preferably, the composition is injected to the site of need. Hence, viscosity, absorption of solvent, etc. are critical parameters that can be adjusted depending on the use and environment. In vascular applications, the composition can also be delivered endovascularly to occlude arteries, veins, intervening vascular spaces, and abnormal connections or disruptions of blood vessels or viscera, or tumors of the body, spine or brain and surrounding structures.

[0062] The invention is further described in detail by reference to the following experimental examples. These examples are provided for the purpose of illustration only, and are not intended to be limiting unless otherwise specified. Thus, the invention should in no way be construed as being limited to the following examples, but rather, should be construed to encompass any and all variations which become evident as a result of the teaching provided herein.

EXAMPLE 1

[0063] This invention is defined by its ability to control several important functional parameters of an injectable scaffold delivered via a solvent. This invention primarily features a polymer or co-polymer mix of biodegradable polymers and a crosslinking agent within a water miscible solvent. In this example, a PLA-PGA co-polymer with a triol cross-linker, such as glycerol, in a DMSO solvent was used. This combination is henceforth known as the "mix." The nature of the delivery of this scaffold is unique in that: the mix will retain its viscous liquid form prior to injection; upon injection and contact with bodily tissues and fluids the solvent will diffuse from the mix; and, as the solvent diffuses the cross-linked, cohesive co-polymer will be left behind.

[0064] Alone and uncontrolled, this co-polymer scaffold is mechanically limited. Controlling the ratio of PLA-PGA in this mix is essential in controlling not only the mechanical integrity, but also the degradation rate and porosity of the resulting scaffold.

[0065] PLA is comprised of polymeric chains of:

##STR00001##

[0066] PGA is comprised of polymeric chains of:

##STR00002##

[0067] The ratio of these two polymers together in a ring opening or condensation reaction, in conjunction with controlling the stereochemistry of each individual polymer will play an important role primarily in controlling degradation rate. The COO ester groups on these polymers are essentially cleaved by esterases and water over time within the body, resulting in lactic acid and glycolic acid (which are naturally occurring materials). The CH3 group on PGA makes it slower to degrade than PLA. Therefore, increasing the ratio of PLA over PGA in a co-polymer results in a material that lasts longer in the body.

[0068] The glycerol cross-linker acts to crosslink the PLA-PGA co-polymer chains giving the scaffold structural integrity and cohesiveness. Drawn fibers of PLA or PLA can be used to increase the structural integrity. Because these chains are cross-linked, when the DMSO solvent diffuses from the injection, pores are created in place of the solvent.

[0069] Furthermore, the percentage of DMSO solvent used in the mix can control the viscosity of the injection prior to solidification. A decrease in solvent percentage results in a more viscous and more controlled, cohesive injection.

[0070] Based on the chemistry of these two polymers the mechanical integrity can be controlled minimally. Larger side groups (CH3 in PLA) result in increased mechanical integrity.

[0071] However, these polymers alone will not be mechanically strong (compressive strength) enough for application as a bone cement. To improve the mechanical strength and integrity of this mix, the use of additional materials and the bonds between these materials plays a primary role.

[0072] In this example, a polyHEMA (hydroxyethylmethacrylate) hydrogel, which has OH groups interacting with water, can be used in conjunction with the previously described mix. polyHEMA is described chemically below:

##STR00003##

[0073] This hydrogel can be embedded with silicate or calcium phosphate salts/fibers/filaments/coils that significantly increase the mechanical strength of the material, based on the length of these fibers and the concentration of these fibers within the hydrogel. In conjunction with polyHEMA, a material like a silicate or hydroxyapatite can improve compressive strength due to the alignment of the molecular structure of the silicate itself. The nature of the polyHEMA can also act to retain these materials within the scaffold.

[0074] The hydrogel can either be cured as a hydrogel prior to injection and delivered into the body with the mix, or HEMA monomer can be added to the mix and injected. As the HEMA+mix+a redox partner and peroxide are injected and mixed together, the peroxide and a redox partner such as an enzyme, and HEMA undergoes a polymerization reaction resulting in a cured, cohesive polyHEMA structure embedded with the PLA-PGA co-polymer blend with little heat released.

[0075] Furthermore, additional materials, such as the aforementioned fibers, therapeutics encapsulated in nanoparticles or PEG, therapeutics alone, or radiopaque metal salts can be embedded in the mix or pre-cured hydrogel prior to injection. As the DMSO solvent is diffused from the scaffold or the polyHEMA chains are cured, these additional materials are captured within the scaffold. This provides a controlled release of targeted or non-targeted therapeutics (by degradation of polymer, release from nanoparticles, or diffusion from hydrogel), radiopaque visibility for ease of non-invasive injection, and increased mechanical properties due to fiber alignment.

EXAMPLE 2

[0076] The material includes a polymeric composition in a biocompatible solvent. Such a polymeric composition can contain two biodegradable polymers combined as a copolymer, which are both soluble in the solvent. This can also contain a second composition including a monomer, which can be polymerized into a gel by a catalyst agent or a redox couple, which is mixed with the first composition. Additional insoluble particles can be added in the solvent solution or the gel for mechanical support of the resulting material.

[0077] Specifically, a first composition of PLA-co-PGA in a solvent, such as DMSO, can be combined with a second composition of a HEMA monomer. When these are combined, a catalyst, such as an enzyme or a redox couple-ammonium persulphate (in composition 1) and ethylenediamene tetracetic acid (in composition 2), polymerize the HEMA into a gel. Insoluble particles, such as hydroxyapatite could then be mixed into the material either in the solvent or in the gel.

EXAMPLE 3

[0078] The material includes a polymeric composition in a biocompatible solvent. Such a polymeric composition can contain two biodegradable polymers, which are both soluble in the solvent. This can also contain a second composition comprising a monomer, which can be polymerized by a catalyst agent or a redox couple, which is mixed with the first composition. Additional insoluble particles can be added in the solvent solution or the gel for mechanical support of the resulting material.

[0079] Specifically, a composition of PLA and PCL in a solvent, such as DMSO, can be combined with a second composition of an AA (acrylic acid) monomer. When these are combined, a catalyst, such as an enzyme or a redox couple-ammonium persulphate (in composition 1) and ethylenediamene tetracetic acid (in composition 2), polymerize the AA. Insoluble particles, such as hydroxyapatite can then be mixed into the material either in the solvent or in the gel.

EXAMPLE 4

[0080] The material includes a polymeric composition in a biocompatible solvent. Such a polymeric composition can contain two biodegradable polymers, which are both soluble in the solvent. This can also contain a second composition of monomers, which can be polymerized into a gel by a catalyst agent or a redox couple, which is mixed with the first composition. Additional insoluble particles can be added in the solvent solution or the gel for mechanical support of the resulting material.

[0081] Specifically, a composition of PLA and PCL in a solvent, such as DMSO, can be combined with a second composition comprising a HEMA and AA monomers. When these are combined, a catalyst, such as an enzyme or a redox couple-ammonium persulphate (in composition 1) and ethylenediamene tetracetic acid (in composition 2), can polymerize the HEMA and AA into a gel. Insoluble particles, such as hydroxyapatite can then be mixed into the material either in the solvent or in the gel.

EXAMPLE 5

[0082] The material includes a polymeric composition in a biocompatible solvent. Such a polymeric composition can contain two biodegradable polymers combined as a copolymer, which are both soluble in the solvent. This can also contain a second composition of a monomer, which can be polymerized into a gel by a catalyst agent or a redox couple, which is mixed with the first composition. Additional insoluble particles can be added in the solvent solution or the gel for mechanical support of the resulting material.

[0083] Specifically, a composition of PLA-co-PGA in a solvent, such as DMSO, can be combined with a second composition comprising an AA monomer. When these are combined, a catalyst, such as an enzyme or a redox couple-ammonium persulphate (in composition 1) and ethylenediamene tetracetic acid (in composition 2), polymerize the AA into a gel. Insoluble particles, such as hydroxyapatite could then be mixed into the material either in the solvent or in the gel.

EXAMPLE 6

[0084] The material includes a polymeric composition in a biocompatible solvent. Such a polymeric composition can contain two biodegradable polymers, which are both soluble in the solvent. This can also contain a second composition of an already polymerized hydrogel material, which is mixed with the first composition. Additional insoluble particles can be added in the solvent solution or the gel for mechanical support of the resulting material.

[0085] Specifically, a composition of PLA and PCL in a solvent, such as DMSO, can be combined with a second composition comprising a polyHEMA hydrogel and PEG. Insoluble particles, such as hydroxyapatite can then be mixed into the material either in the solvent or in the gel.

EXAMPLE 7

[0086] The material includes a polymeric composition in a biocompatible solvent. Such a polymeric composition can contain two biodegradable polymers, which are both soluble in the solvent. This can also contain a second composition of an already polymerized hydrogel material, which is mixed with the first composition. Additional insoluble particles can be added in the solvent solution or the gel for mechanical support of the resulting material.

[0087] Specifically, a composition of PLA and PCL in a solvent, such as DMSO, can be combined with a second composition of a polyAA hydrogel and PEG. Insoluble particles, such as hydroxyapatite can then be mixed into the material either in the solvent or in the gel.

[0088] With the above examples, in addition other combinations of the same materials can be utilized to improve the properties of the bone cement. Other biodegradable and non-degradable polymer combinations can also be utilized.

[0089] Throughout this application, various publications, including United States patents, are referenced by author and year and patents by number. Full citations for the publications are listed below. The disclosures of these publications and patents in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which this invention pertains.

[0090] The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology, which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation.

[0091] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention can be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

Claims

1. A solidifying implant composition, comprising a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent.

2. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said composition is in a form chosen from the group consisting of an injectable fluid, a malleable paste, a hydrogel, and an aerosol gel.

3. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said polymeric material is chosen from the group consisting of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene UHMW (ultra-high-molecular-weight), cross-linked polyethylene PEX, polypropylene, polyesters, polybutylene terephtalate (PBT), polyetherekketone (PEEK-Optima), polystyrene mono- and copolymer, polybutadiene mono- and copolymer, polyvinyl alcohol mono- and copolymer, polyamides (nylon), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic-lactic acid (PGLA), polyurethanes, calcium phosphates, calcium sulphates, hydroxyapatite, silicates, bioactive glasses, diacetonylacrylamide, polylactides, polydioxannones, polycarbonates, polyalkene oxylates, polyanhydrides, polyamides, polyesteramides, polyurethanes, polyacetals, polyketals, polyorthocarbonates, polyphosphazenes, polyhydroxyvalerates, polyalkylene succinates, poly(malic acid), poly(amino acids), Chitin, Chitosan, polyorthoesters, polyhydroxybutyrates, polyethylene glycol, porous silicon, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and copolymers, terpolymers, and combinations thereof.

4. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said solvent is chosen from the group consisting of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), acetone, 2-butanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, methyl acetate, dimethylformamide, caprolactam, oleic acid, 1 propanol, 2-propanol, propyl acetate, propylene glycol, glycerol, any solvent analogous or homologous to dimethyl sulfoxide, and combinations thereof.

5. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said solvent is in excess.

6. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, further including a radiopaque metal particle chosen from the group consisting of Tantalum, Platinum, Barium, Titanium, Silver, Gold, Palladium, Iridium, Osmium, Copper, Niobium, Molybdenum, Strontium, Gallium, Nickel-Titanium, Nickel-Manganese-Gallium, Platinum-Iridium, Platinum-Osmium, and combinations thereof.

7. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, further including a catalyst chosen from the group consisting of Platinum, Palladium, peroxide, metal salts, Zinc, redox couples, enzymes, and combinations thereof.

8. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, further including suspended particles of biologically active material chosen from the group consisting of antibiotics, therapeutic agents that stimulate bone healing, pain relief therapeutics, cancer treatments, and combinations thereof.

9. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, further including biodegradable polymers chosen from the group consisting of polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic-lactic acid (PGLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), ε-poly-L-lysine (EPA), glycosaminoglycans (GAGs, polyalcohols, heparinoids, and combinations thereof.

10. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, further including a material chosen from the group consisting of polymeric fibers, ceramic fibers, metal fibers, polymeric filaments, ceramic filaments, metal filaments, polymeric coils, ceramic coils, metal coils, polymeric particles, ceramic particles, metal particles, and combinations thereof.

11. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, further including a liquid contrast agent chosen from the group consisting of Ethiodol, Tantalum, Barium Sulfate, and Nickel-Titanium.

12. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said implant composition when solidified possesses compressive strength within the range of 10-500 MPa, possesses elastic modulus between 0.1-100 GPa, and possesses yield strength within 0.5-10 MPa.

13. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said implant composition when solidified includes pores in a size of 1-1000 μm within said composition and less than 10 μum on a surface of said composition.

14. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said composition is radiopaque and opacity of said composition diminishes over time.

15. The solidifying implant composition of claim 1, wherein said composition is chosen from the group consisting of PLA-PGA co-polymer with a triol cross-linker in a DMSO solvent, PLA-PGA co-polymer with a triol cross-linker in a DMSO solvent with a polyHEMA (hydroxyethylmethacrylate) hydrogel, PLA-co-PGA and HEMA monomer in DMSO solvent, PLA and PCL in DMSO with an AA (acrylic acid) monomer, PLA and PCL in DMSO with HEMA and AA monomers, PLA-co-PGA in DMSO with AA monomer, PLA and PCL in DMSO with polyHEMA hydrogel and PEG, and PLA and PCL in DMSO with polyAA hydrogel and PEG.

16. A method of treating a patient, including the steps of: implanting a solidifying implant composition comprising a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent into bone; and solidifying the implant composition.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein said implanting step is further defined as injecting the implant composition into the bone.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein said injecting step further includes the step of mixing the implant composition before entry into the bone.

19. The method of claim 16, further including the step, prior to said implanting step, of mixing the implant composition.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein said implanting step is performed during a procedure chosen from the group consisting of vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, void filling, bone stabilization, and stabilization of nonresorbable materials in contact with bone.

21. The method of claim 16, wherein said implanting step is further defined as treating a fracture is chosen from the group consisting of bone fractures, osteoporotic bone fractures, compression fractures, stress fractures, pathological fractures, non-union fractures, complex fractures, displaced fractures, and poor-healing fractures.

22. The method of claim 16, wherein said solidifying step is further defined as solidifying the implant composition upon contact with surrounding tissue or liquid by absorbing and diffusing the solvent into the surrounding tissue or liquid.

23. The method of claim 22, further including the step of forming pores within the implant composition and on the implant composition in place of the solvent.

24. The method of claim 16, further including the step of allowing controlled movement of bone with the implant composition.

25. The method of claim 16, further including the step of absorbing and distributing stress and preventing fatigue and fracture of adjacent bone with the implant composition.

26. The method of claim 16, wherein the implant is chosen from the group consisting of permanent, biodegradable, and bioabsorbable.

27. A method of improving bone structure in patients, including the steps of: applying a solidifying implant composition comprising a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent to bone; shoring up bone structure; and improving load bearing capacity and aiding healing of microfractures.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein said applying step is further defined as a method chosen from the group consisting of injecting the implant composition into the bone, and coating the composition on the bone.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein the patients are suffering from a disease chosen from the group consisting of severe osteoporosis, metastases, and bone lesions at risk of catastrophic failure.

30. The method of claim 27, further including the step of temporarily stabilzing the implant composition after said shoring up step.

31. The method of claim 30, further including the step of making subsequent procedures less difficult.

32. The method of claim 27, wherein the solidifying implant composition is chosen from the group consisting of permanent, biodegradable, and bioabsorbable.

33. A method of fixing an implant, including the steps of: applying a solidifying implant composition comprising a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent to an implant; and shoring up the implant.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the solidifying implant composition is chosen from the group consisting of permanent, biodegradable, and bioabsorbable.

35. A method of devascularizing a tumor or vascular lesion, including the step of: applying a solidifying implant composition comprising a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent to a tumor or vascular lesion.

36. The method of claim 35, further including the step of treating the tumor or vascular lesion with a therapeutic.

37. A method of treating a vascular disease, including the step of: applying a solidifying implant composition comprising a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent to vascular site in need of treatment.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the vascular disease is chosen from the group consisting of an endoleak that occurs following endovascular repair of aortic aneurysms, aneurysms, spinal and body arteriovenous malformations and fistulae, cerebral and spinal dural arteriovenous fistulae, traumatic vessel injury (traumatic vascular lesion), venous varices, visceral and/or viscerocutaneous fistulae, vascular tumors, and cerebral arteriovenous malformations.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein said applying step is further defined as delivering the composition into space that is filled by blood or body fluids, tracking the composition along the space, and filling in a vascular site. radiopacity

40. A method of treating aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms, including the step of: applying a solidifying implant composition comprising a polymeric material mixed with a biocompatible solvent to an aneurysm/pseudoaneurysm.

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