Devices, systems, and methods for excavating cancer cells

An implantable device for promoting tumor cell migration for cell removal or death, the device comprising:

• at least one film having a surface configured to provide cues for directing tumor cell migration along the substrate surface, wherein the surface comprises a coating material gradient to effect uni-directional or bi-direction growth of cells across the surface.

A method for guiding tumor movement in vivo, comprising:

• implanting into a tissue site where tumor cells are present a device having one or more surface structures which provide physical guidance cues for directing the migration of the tumor cells from the first tissue location to a selected second location.

A method for treating a patient comprising:

• implanting at a tissue site in the patient a device comprising a substrate having a surface configured to provide cues for directing tumor cell migration along the substrate surface, the substrate comprising a plurality of aligned nanofibers;
• and subsequently
• killing or removing tumor cells that have migrated along the substrate surface.