| abstract |
An implantable medical device including a nanocomposite coating deposited on at least a portion of a surface of at least one structural element of the device to provide a controlled release of a bioactive agent in one or more dosages is described. The nanocomposite coating includes a matrix, a bioactive agent and inorganic particles. The inorganic particles respond to a stimulus, preferably by generating heat. The response of the particles to the stimulus causes the matrix of the nanocomposite coating to undergo a volume change by, for example, contracting or swelling, thereby releasing at least a portion of the bioactive agent. A method of providing a controlled release of a bioactive agent from a nanocomposite coating on an implantable medical device is described. A method for providing a nanocomposite coating for the controlled release of a bioactive agent on the implantable medical device is also described. |