Abstract: An implantable prosthesis can be formed from an improved biocompatible material that provides for cellular colonization of the biocompatible material. Specifically, the biocompatible material is a rigid porous material. In embodiments of particular interest, the implantable prosthesis is a mechanical heart valve prosthesis with a rigid occluder. In some embodiments, the rigid occluder is formed from the biocompatible material. A filler comprising a hydrogel or a structural protein can be located within the pores. In some embodiments, a bioactive agent is within the pores. In some embodiments, the rigid occluder is formed from a polymer material, a carbonaceous solid or a ceramic material. The pores can extend through the rigid material.

Abstract: An implantable prosthesis can be formed from an improved biocompatible material that provides for cellular colonization of the biocompatible material. Specifically, the biocompatible material is a rigid porous material. In embodiments of particular interest, the implantable prosthesis is a mechanical heart valve prosthesis with a rigid occluder. In some embodiments, the rigid occluder is formed from the biocompatible material. A filler comprising a hydrogel or a structural protein can be located within the pores. In some embodiments, a bioactive agent is within the pores. In some embodiments, the rigid occluder is formed from a polymer material, a carbonaceous solid or a ceramic material. The pores can extend through the rigid material.

Abstract: Wound dressings comprising a synergistic combination of reagents comprising a blend or mixture having effective amounts of chitosan and alginate to provide an absorption capacity for wound exudate far greater than that obtainable with the same amount by weight of either chitosan or alginate alone, along with the inherent hemostatic properties of the alginate and the other biological properties of the reagents including, but not limited to fungistic and bacteriostatic properties as well as the ability to accelerate wound healing by inducing high migration of poly- and mononuclear cells toward the wound and rapid granulating tissue formation with abundant angiogenesis. The alginate and chitosan may be provided in the form of a powder, film, gel, foam or mixtures thereof. In addition to the alginate and chitosan, the wound dressing may and frequently will contain other reagents providing specific desired functions.