Abstract: Hydrogels comprising poly(N-alkylacrylamide), poly(alkyleneglyco)di-acrylate or methacrylate, cross-linking agent, a source of calcium ions, and water are described, as well as methods of their preparation and use.

Abstract: Method and formulations to extend the utility of ultrasound compliant adhesive hydrogel membranes from static to dynamic applications by modifying the surface of at least one face so as to transform the tactile nature of the surface from one that is adhesive and render it smooth and lubricious. Such modification thus provides one face that is smooth and lubricious and the other unmodified, hence providing one adhesive surface that can be attached to the skin of a patient, the face of an ultrasound probe or other surfaces that benefit from the adhesive/lubricious configuration of such modified adhesive hydrogels.

Abstract: Thermogelling polymers are described containing poly (n-isopropyl acrylamide). Solutions of this polymer, copolymers or mixtures of the polymer with a second polymer such as poly(ethylene glycol), poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) or poly(vinyl alcohol) are liquids at room temperature and solids at body temperature. Thus, also provided are methods of implanting a hydrogel into a mammal by injecting the solution as a liquid at a temperature below body temperature into a selected site in the mammal at a temperature below body temperature, which then undergoes thermal phase transition to form a solid hydrogel in situ in the body as the implant warms to body temperature. Methods for using these thermal gelling materials in various applications including nucleus pulposus replacement/augmentation, wound care, disk replacement, cartilage replacement, joint replacement, surgical barriers, gastrointestinal devices, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and breast enlargement are also provided.

Abstract: Method and formulations to extend the utility of ultrasound compliant adhesive hydrogel membranes from static to dynamic applications by modifying the surface of at least one face so as to transform the tactile nature of the surface from one that is adhesive and render it smooth and lubricious. Such modification thus provides one face that is smooth and lubricious and the other unmodified, hence providing one adhesive surface that can be attached to the skin of a patient, the face of an ultrasound probe or other surfaces that benefit from the adhesive/lubricious configuration of such modified adhesive hydrogels.