Cell encapsulation device

A method for loading cells into a cell encapsulation device, the method comprising:

• providing a cell encapsulation device comprising a cell zone comprising a space delimited by a water wettable cover surrounding a cell displacing core within the cover;
• wherein the cover has a coating thereon, the coating comprising a hydrophilic polymer material cross-linked to itself, wherein the cover is permeable to water and impermeable to cells such that the cover is a means to filter cells from solution upon introduction of cells and solution into the cell zone under a pressure less than about 6.9.times.10.sup.5 Pa, thereby causing the solution to weep through the cover at a rate ranging from about 0.01 ml/cm.sup.2 /minute to about 100 ml/cm.sup.2 /minute while retaining the cells within the device;
• wherein the core comprises a swellable material that expands from an initial first radial dimension to an enlarged second radial dimension upon exposure to an aqueous solution;
• at least one opening within the cover;
• means to seal the opening following introduction of cells into the device;
• providing a cell delivery device to transfer an aqueous solution of cells into the device form a separate vessel containing cells;
• transferring the cells from the separate vessel into the cell encapsulation device under pressure;
• and
• allowing water to weep from the cover during the transferring of the cells, thereby concentrating the cells within the device.