Abstract: There is disclosed a non-toxic physiologically-acceptable polymeric composition comprised of water insoluble, non-crosslinked polymeric compounds having a solubility parameter of between 9.2 and 15.5 (cal/cc).sup.1/2 dissolved in a polar, non-toxic water miscible solvent, which polymeric composition solidifies when placed in contact with living tissue by absorbtion of water and by gradual release of solvent into the surrounding tissue.