Abstract: A PEG based hydrogel and a procedure for its topical application to the surface of the pia mater of the spinal cord that can be used for intrathecal delivery of diverse drug and biomolecular therapies for the treatment of traumatic central nervous system injuries and disorders including spinal cord injury (SCI), multiple sclerosis (MS) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are provided. This “painting of the pia” with biofunctionalized hydrogel material may be used as a prelude strategy in the therapeutic management of these CNS disorders. The strategy may be designed to create a microenvironment within the damaged regions of the spinal cord that is more conducive to the successful application of subsequent regeneration based treatments such as cell replacement therapies or endogenous regeneration and plasticity stimulation via application of growth factors or gene therapy.

Abstract: Hydrogels that may be used for treating peripheral nerves and related methods are provided. Synthetic hydrogel sealants, methods of forming synthetic hydrogel sealants, and the use of synthetic hydrogel sealants are provided.