What is Insertion and Removal of Non-Biodegradable Drug Delivery Implant: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Definition & Overview

A non-biodegradable drug delivery implant is one of the many drug delivery systems used to efficiently administer medications. They are especially helpful for patients who require long-term medications. The development of these implants is considered a major step in drug delivery, especially for the treatment of chronic diseases. They offer several unique advantages that improve the efficacy of drug therapy as compared with other drug delivery methods. Their insertion and removal are performed through a simple routine procedure involving a skin incision.

Who Should Undergo and Expected Results

The insertion or removal of a non-biodegradable drug delivery implant is for those who suffer from chronic diseases and require the continuous and consistent use of certain medications. An example is the use of insulin delivery implants among patients suffering from diabetes. Other examples include:

• Histrelin implants for prostate cancer and uterine fibroids
• Levonorgestrel and etonogestrel implants as contraceptives
• Buprenorphine implants for opioid addiction
• Corticosteroid implants for retinal vein occlusions

Subcutaneous implants are also available for those who are suffering from:

• Schizophrenia
• Breast cancer
• Photosensitivity
• Parkinson’s disease
• Macular oedema
• Chronic pain

Drug delivery through implantable devices offers several key advantages over conventional drug delivery methods, which include oral, parenteral, and intravenous administration. These benefits include:

• Specific or precise drug administration in the affected area – The drugs are delivered exactly or near the precise area where they are needed. This is particularly helpful in the fields of cardiology and oncology (cancer treatment).
• Reduced doses of the drug – Since the drugs are delivered directly into the affected area, they can be taken in exact or smaller doses than what is required for oral administration.
• Minimal side effects – Since doses can be lowered, patients also suffer from fewer or less pronounced side effects.
• Sustained release – The medications are released at controlled doses over a specific period of time to make sure the body gets the right doses exactly when they are necessary.
• Patient compliance – With the drug already implanted inside the body, this method eliminates problems with patient compliance, such as missed pills, incorrect doses, or erratic drug delivery schedules. This is crucial as patient compliance is considered as one of the greatest challenges in healthcare. Studies show that about 50% of all conventional medications are not used as prescribed.
• Reduced follow-up visits – The use of drug delivery implants simplifies the treatment regimen and thus reduces the need for doctor visits.

All in all, having non-biodegradable drug delivery implants inserted is a convenient way to ensure that a patient takes his medications properly. It also helps eliminate the usual challenges patients face in taking medications, such as maintenance drugs, for their chronic health problems.

Non-biodegradable drug delivery implants have to be removed once the medication period has been completed because they are not designed to be absorbed by the body. They are made of biocompatible yet non-absorbable materials such as silicone rubber, EVA, and TPU, among others. The implants start working immediately upon insertion and can continue releasing controlled doses for years, but their effects are also immediately reversed upon implant removal.

How is the Procedure Performed?

The insertion and removal of non-biodegradable drug delivery implants require a simple routine procedure involving a skin incision. After the administration of local anaesthesia to keep the patient comfortable as a skin incision is made, the doctor inserts the implant through the incision before closing the wound. To remove the implant, the doctor again makes an incision, locates the implant, and takes it out before closing the wound.

Since anaesthesia is used for both procedures, patients are closely monitored for potential complications.

Possible Risks and Complications

Despite the convenience and efficiency of using non-biodegradable drug delivery implants, there are several key considerations that have to be made during the insertion and removal procedures. These include:

• Biocompatibility
• Stability
• Durability
• Control over the release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient in the drug

Patients and doctors also have to discuss the potential risks of the insertion and removal process. These include allergic reaction to anaesthesia, infection, bleeding, and scarring.

References:

• Matheson R. “Major step for implantable drug delivery device.” MIT News Office. June 29, 2015. http://news.mit.edu/2015/implantable-drug-delivery-microchip-device-0629

• Arps J. “Implantable drug delivery devices – An overview.” ProMed Pharma LLC. 2013. https://www.mdtmag.com/article/2013/07/implantable-drug-delivery-devices—-overview

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## Comprehensive Guide: Insertion and ​Removal of Non-Biodegradable Drug Delivery Implant



### What is a ​Non-Biodegradable Drug Delivery Implant?



A non-biodegradable drug delivery implant is a small, solid device that delivers therapeutic agents to targeted areas within the body over ‍a sustained period. Unlike ​biodegradable implants, these implants do not break down in the⁤ body ⁤and typically require surgical removal once their function⁢ is complete.



### Indications for Non-Biodegradable‌ Drug Delivery Implants



Non-biodegradable implants⁣ are primarily used for treating chronic conditions that require long-term​ medication delivery. Common indications include:



* **Hormonal Therapy:**⁢ Implants for hormone replacement ⁣therapy (HRT), contraception, ​or cancer treatment

* **Neurological Disorders:** Implants for deep brain stimulation or chronic pain management

* **Orthopedic Applications:** Implants for joint replacements or fracture fixation

* **Cardiovascular Disease:** ‌Implants for pacemakers or stents



### Benefits of Non-Biodegradable⁢ Drug Delivery Implants



* **Controlled and ‍Sustained Release:** Implants provide precise and predictable drug delivery over extended periods, reducing ​the frequency of injections or oral medications.

* **Targeted Delivery:** Implants can deliver drugs directly to the affected area, minimizing systemic side effects.

*‌ **Reduced Compliance ⁢Issues:** Implants eliminate the need for patient compliance with medication ⁤regimens,⁤ ensuring continuous therapy.

* **Long-Term Efficacy:** Non-biodegradable implants can maintain their therapeutic effect for​ years, reducing the need for additional ‍surgery.



### Expected Results of Implantation and Removal



**Insertion:**



* The⁣ implantation procedure typically involves⁢ a surgical incision to create a​ pocket for the implant beneath the skin or muscle.

* The implant is carefully inserted into the pocket and ‌secured in place.

* The incision is then closed and dressed.



**Removal:**



* ⁣Implant removal usually involves a minor surgical procedure.

* The incision is reopened, and the implant is⁣ carefully extracted from its pocket.

* The incision is then closed and dressed.



After implant removal, the body may take some time to adapt to the ‌absence of the medication. In some cases, patients may experience withdrawal symptoms or require additional medication until the ​body’s natural regulation mechanisms‌ readjust.



### Risks and ⁤Complications



As⁢ with any surgical ​procedure, implant insertion and removal carry potential risks, ​including:



* Bleeding

* Infection

* Scarring

* Device failure

* Nerve damage

* Allergic reactions



It is crucial to discuss the potential risks ⁢and benefits with a qualified healthcare professional before ⁢undergoing implant insertion ​or removal.



### Conclusion



Non-biodegradable drug delivery implants offer a convenient and effective means of sustaining therapeutic drug ‌levels over extended periods. They are particularly beneficial for treating chronic conditions that require precise drug delivery and reduced compliance issues. While insertion and removal procedures are⁣ generally straightforward,‍ it is essential to​ be aware of potential risks and⁤ seek professional medical guidance throughout the ⁣entire process.