Method and system of controlled temperature mixing and molding of polymers with active agents for implantable medical devices

摘要

A method and system for making a composition for use in manufacturing an implantable medical device, such as a drug-eluting and/or delivery stent, is described. The method includes introducing a polymer, active agent, and a solvent into a mixing apparatus such as an extruder. The polymer, active agent, and solvent may be mixed in the apparatus to form a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous polymer mixture. The method may further include controlling a temperature of the polymer mixture in at least a portion of the apparatus. In an embodiment, the polymer mixture may be used as a coating for an implantable medical device, or fabricating an implantable medical device. The invention also includes a composition formed by the method described above.