Abstract: Devices and methods are described for providing continuous measurement of an analyte concentration. In some embodiments, the device has a sensing mechanism and a sensing membrane that includes at least one surface-active group-containing polymer and that is located over the sensing mechanism. The sensing membrane may have a bioprotective layer configured to substantially block the effect and/or influence of non-constant noise-causing species.

Abstract: The present invention provides biodegradable, biocompatible bis-(?-amino acyl)-diol-diester-containing poly(ester amide) (PEA) and poly(ester urethane) (PEUR) co-polymer compositions with mechanical properties that can be readily tailored by selection of various combinations and proportions of the building blocks of the co-polymers. The compositions are suitable for use in production of drug-releasing biodegradable particles and implantable surgical devices, such as stents and internal fixation devices. The co-polymer compositions, particles and surgical devices biodegrade in vivo by enzymatic action to release bioactive agents in a controlled manner over time as well as biocompatible breakdown products, including one to multiple different amino acids.

Abstract: In preferred embodiments, the present invention relates to methods for polymerizing a monomer solution within a cavity covered by a porous membrane to generate a smooth polymer surface. More specifically, the method can be used to provide a medical device or sensor with a smooth polymer surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides adhesion barrier compositions based on a solution of at least one of a biodegradable polyester amide (PEA), polyester urethane (PEUR), or polyester urea (PEU) polymers, dissolved in a biocompatible solvent. The compositions can be applied to a tissue surface, such as in open surgery, as a viscous liquid which forms an adhesive film upon being sprayed or painted onto the tissue surface. Alternatively, the composition can be applied to the tissue surface as a preformed solid layer or double layer (either porous or non-porous) that adheres to the tissue surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides wound healing or wound care polymer compositions that can be formulated to release a wound healing agent at a controlled rate by adjusting the various components of the composition. The compositiona can be used in an external wound dressing, as a polymer implant for delivery of the wound healing agent to an internal body site, or as a coating on the surface of an implantable surgical device to deliver wound healing agents that are dispersed in a biodegradable polymer or hydrogel, or both. Methods of using the invention bioactive polymer compositions to deliver wound healing agents that promote natural healing of wounds, especially chronic wounds, are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides bioactive polymer compositions that can be formulated to release a wound healing agent at a controlled rate by adjusting the various components of the composition. The composition can be used in an external wound dressing, as a polymer implant for delivery of the wound healing agent to an internal body site, or as a coating on the surface of an implantable surgical device to deliver wound healing agents that are covalently attached to a biocompatible, biodegradable polymer and/or embedded within a hydrogel. Methods of using the invention bioactive polymer compositions to promote natural healing of wounds, especially chronic wounds, are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is based on the discovery that stents can be coated with biodegradable, bioactive polymers that promote endogenous healing processes at a site of stent implantation. The polymers biodegrade over time, releasing agents which establish or re-establish the natural healing process in an artery. Preferably, the stent is implanted at the time an artery is damaged, such at the time of angioplasty to protect the damaged artery against deleterious blood-borne factors that initiate proliferation of smooth muscle cells.