Abstract: A bilayer mold for forming polymer microstructures is provided. The bilayer mold includes a rigid plastic cylinder having slots defined along an outer periphery of the rigid plastic cylinder; and a layer of plastic elastic polymer material disposed within the slots and having indents defined therethrough and in the rigid plastic cylinder. The indents have a first profile extending through the layer of plastic elastic polymer and terminating within the rigid plastic cylinder. A metal polymer structure profile is also provided using laser-etching of a desired shape for the features of the microstructures in a metallic foil, followed by further refining of the features. The polymer and metal microstructures can be formed on the surface of a stent to facilitate retention of the stent.

Abstract: A micro-structured mechanical adhesive that can be used as an alternative for suturing is provided. The micro-structured mechanical adhesive includes a base section having a first side and a second side and a plurality of microstructures extending from the first side of the base section. Characteristically, each microstructure includes a preferential failure notch that biases the microstructure to preferentially yield or buckle in a predetermined direction. Advantageously, the micro-structured mechanical adhesive is configured to provide attachment to biological tissue.

Abstract: A bilayer mold for forming polymer microstructures is provided. The bilayer mold includes a rigid plastic cylinder having slots defined along an outer periphery of the rigid plastic cylinder; and a layer of plastic elastic polymer material disposed within the slots and having indents defined therethrough and in the rigid plastic cylinder. The indents have a first profile extending through the layer of plastic elastic polymer and terminating within the rigid plastic cylinder. A metal polymer structure profile is also provided using laser-etching of a desired shape for the features of the microstructures in a metallic foil, followed by further refining of the features. The polymer and metal microstructures can be formed on the surface of a stent to facilitate retention of the stent.

Abstract: A biocompatible adhesive is disclosed. The biocompatible adhesive includes a substrate and a plurality of micro-scale elements extending from a surface of the substrate having a length selected to puncture a layer of a target tissue or target material. At least some of the micro-scale elements include at least one protrusion dimensioned to anchor the biocompatible adhesive to the target tissue or target material. A medical device assembly is also disclosed. The medical device assembly includes the biocompatible adhesive coupled to a surface of a component of the medical device assembly and positioned to attach the medical device assembly to the target tissue or target material. A method of facilitating attachment of a medical device assembly to a target tissue is also disclosed. A method of facilitating treatment of a wound is also disclosed.