Methods and devices for cellular transplantation

Abstract

Devices and methods for transplanting cells in a host body are described. The cell comprises a porous scaffold that allows the ingrowth of vascular and connective tissues, a plug or plug system configured for placement within the porous scaffold, and a seal configured to enclose a proximal opening in the porous scaffold. The device may further comprise a cell delivery device for delivering cells into the porous scaffold. The method of cell transplantation comprises a two step process. The device is incubated in the host body to form a vascularized collagen matrix around a plug positioned within the porous scaffold. The plug is then retracted from the porous scaffold, and cells are delivered into the vascularized space created within the porous scaffold.

1 . A device for implanting cells in a host body, comprising:
 a porous scaffold comprising at least one chamber having a proximal end and a distal end, the porous scaffold having pores sized to facilitate growth of vascular and connective tissues into the at least one chamber; and   at least one removable plug configured to be positioned within the at least one chamber;   wherein the porous scaffold comprises a polypropylene mesh.   
     
     
         2 - 85 . (canceled)