Abstract: A multi-lamellar tissue-adhesive sheet comprises a structural layer or laminate conjoined to a tissue-contacting layer. The structural layer or laminate comprises one or more synthetic polymers having film-forming properties, and the tissue-contacting layer of material contains tissue-reactive groups. The synthetic polymers having film-forming properties are preferably biodegradable polyesters, and the tissue-reactive groups are most preferably NHS-ester groups.

Abstract: This invention related to a tissue-adhesive sheet comprising a homogeneous, preformed and cross-linked matrix formed from one or more polymers, and having at least one surface that, in use, is exposed, at least one of said one or more polymers being a synthetic polymer and having appendant functional groups of a first form, cross-linking of said matrix being via a proportion of said functional groups of the first form, and the remainder of said functional groups of the first form being free. The sheet is particularly useful as a tissue adhesive and sealant, and is intended for topical application to internal and external surfaces of the body for therapeutic reasons. The invention further relates to sheets comprising a scaffold material, three-dimensional articles formed from similar material to that of the sheet and to implantable medical devices coated with such material.

Abstract: A tissue-adhesive formulation consists of a naturally occurring or synthetic polymerisable and/or cross-linkable material in particulate form, the polymerisable and/or cross-linkable material being in admixture with particulate material comprising tissue-reactive functional groups. The formulation may be used in the preparation of a tissue-adhesive sheet, by applying the formulation to at least one side of a core of a naturally occurring or synthetic polymeric material.

Abstract: There are described devices implantable in the human or animal body. Such a device takes the form of a pre-formed three-dimensional article, comprising at least in part a material which is hydratable and capable of bonding to tissue whilst retaining its integrity. The material may be activated, leading to cross-linking of the material and the formation of chemical bonds between the material and tissue to which it is applied. In preferred embodiments the material has self-adhesive properties. The article may have a wide variety of shapes to suit its intended purpose, and may be manufactured by a variety of methods.

Abstract: A self-adhesive, biocompatible and hydratable polymeric matrix has the form of a sheet, patch or film. The matrix is suitable for application to moist surfaces both inside and on the external surface of the body. The matrix comprises a naturally occurring or synthetic polymerisable and/or cross-linkable material that supports wound healing, and a synthetic polymer having bioadhesive properties. The bioadhesive properties enable the matrix to adhere to underlying tissue by means of ionic and or hydrogen bonding.