Injectable compositions and methods of preparation and use thereof

A method of preparing a composition for delivery to a target site of a patient, the method comprising:

• combining gellan gum, at least one salt, and water to form a mixture;
• heating the mixture;
• introducing the mixture into a reservoir;
• and
• allowing the mixture to cool while inside the reservoir to form a homogeneous gel having a continuous, three-dimensional structure inside the reservoir;
• wherein the composition is biocompatible and injectable from the reservoir through a needle to the target site.

A medical device comprising:

• a needle;
• a reservoir coupled to the needle;
• and
• a composition comprising:
• 0.05% to 0.5% gellan gum by weight with respect to the total weight of the composition;
• at least one salt;
• a coloring agent;
• and
• water;
• wherein the composition is prepared by:
• combining the gellan gum, the at least one salt, the coloring agent, and the water to form a mixture;
• heating the mixture at a temperature ranging from about 70° C. to about 130° C.;
• introducing the mixture into the reservoir;
• and
• allowing the mixture to cool and increase in viscosity while inside the reservoir to form a homogeneous gel;
• wherein the composition is biocompatible and injectable through the needle.