Abstract: A first polymer is coated with a second polymer by placing the polymers separately in the barrels of a double-barrelled extruder, and extruding the polymers through a common orifice into a coagulation solution. For example, a core of an absorbent, thermoplastic polyurethane hydrogel can be coated with gelatin to form an absorbent fiber.

Abstract: A two component interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) wound dressing material is formed of a biocompatible, hydrophilic first component such as gelatin or polyvinyl alcohol and a biocompatible elastomer such as HydroThane (trademark) by dissolving the components in a common solvent, initiating cross-linking of at least one of the components in the solution, and forming a film, fiber, bead or mesh from the solution. When the first component is a methacrylated gelatin aged for an extended period, e.g. 1 to 8 weeks, the resulting IPN is more stable with a higher tensile strength. Heating of the methacrylated gelatin during aging and/or freeze-drying of the product also increase tensile strength of the product.

Abstract: A multi-layered polyurethane foam dressing with cooling properties for use in body cavities, on damaged tissues, particularly burns, or for cosmetic use. The dressing includes: 1) an optional outer layer of either a hydrogel formulated from a polyurethane or an adhesive elastomeric material; 2) a hydrophilic polyurethane foam layer; 3) a non-adherent surface-contacting cooling layer of a polyurethane hydrogel; and, 4) an optional protective cover-sheet. An interposed liquid transfer control may be used at a layer interface. The dressing can be in various shapes and sizes (e.g., cylindrical, oval, etc. or flat sheets). A secondary wrapping dressing may be applied to secure the dressing. The contact surface may be channeled to enhance fluid distribution.

Abstract: A two component interpenetrating polymer network wound dressing material is formed of a biocompatible, hydrophilic first component such as gelatin or polyvinyl alcohol and a biocompatible elastomer such as HydroThane (trademark) by dissolving the components in a common solvent, initiating cross-linking of at least one of the components in the solution, and forming a film, fiber, bead or mesh from the solution.

Abstract: A medicated multi-layered polyurethane foam dressing and drug delivery device with cooling properties, used in body cavities and on damaged tissues, particularly bums. The dressing may have at least one therapeutic agent dispersed into the polyurethane layers; an optional outer layer of either a hydrogel formulated from a polyurethane or an adhesive elastomeric material; an optional drug-free fluid-retaining layer and/or a drug-reservoir layer, each comprised of hydrophilic polyurethane foam; a non-adherent, drug-loaded surface-contacting layer of a polyurethane hydrogel; and an optional cover sheet, for surface dressings. An interposed liquid transfer control may be used at a layer interface. The conformable dressing shapes include cylindrical, oval, flatsheets in pre-determined sizes; and may be secured with a secondary dressing. The contact surface may be channeled to enhance fluid distribution.