Abstract: A novel therapeutic agent delivery system, methods of use and methods of formation thereof are presented. The novel delivery system is comprised of novel nanoparticles capable of at least partially encapsulating a therapeutic agent such as an anesthetic, antimicrobial, growth factor or protein. The nanoparticles are embedded with in a crosslinked hydrogel. The hydrogel can be administered directly to a patient or may be coated onto a device such as a catheter. The delivery system allows for a sustained release of the therapeutic agent over an extended period of time.