| abstract |
The present invention is systems and methods for implanting forming both a polysaccharide fiber (60), and an implant formed of the fiber. In one system (10) a liquid including polysaccharide, and a liquid including a cross-linking agent are mixed in a cannula (40) to form a cross-linked polysaccharide fiber in the cannula. In another system (10a), a carrier fluid delivers a previously manufactured fiber through a cannula (40a). A cutter (82) is optionally provided on the cannula to sever the fiber after a sufficient length of fiber is implanted. The methods include forming a polysaccharide fiber in the cannula while the cannula is inserted in a body, and a method of making a cross-linked polysaccharide fiber for loading in a delivery system. |