Abstract: The present invention discloses collagen cross-linked in a micro to non-fibrillar form and at a high concentration. The cross-linked collagen gel has improved volume stability or persistence than collagen cross-linked at a neutral pH. Also disclosed are methods for preparing the inventive cross-linked collagen and using such for augmenting soft tissues in mammals.

Abstract: The present invention discloses collagen cross-linked in a micro to non-fibrillar form and at a high concentration. The cross-linked collagen gel has improved volume stability or persistence than collagen cross-linked at a neutral pH. Also disclosed are methods for preparing the inventive cross-linked collagen and using such for augmenting soft tissues in mammals.

Abstract: A method is provided for the rapid formation of a biocompatible gel, and may be carried out in situ, i.e., at a selected site within a patient's body. The method involves admixing a biocompatible crosslinking component A having m sulfhydryl groups wherein m≧2 and a biocompatible crosslinking component B having n sulfhydryl-reactive groups wherein n≧2 and m+n>4, wherein the sulfhydryl-reactive groups are capable of covalent reaction with the sulfhydryl groups upon admixture of the components under effective crosslinking conditions to form a gel in less than one minute. Suitable reaction conditions for carrying out the crosslinking reaction will depend on the particular components and the type of reaction involved; that is, the “effective crosslinking conditions” may involve reaction in bulk or in a solvent, addition of a base, and/or irradiation of the admixture in the presence of a free radical initiator.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to synthetic polymer compositions that form interpenetrating polymer networks. In a preferred embodiment, the compositions comprise two multifunctionally activated synthetic polymers, along with a tensile strength enhancer. Such compositions form matrices that exhibit superior cohesive strength and in many instances can serve as adequate replacements for surgical means of attaching tissues, such as sutures and medical staples.

Abstract: A method is provided for the rapid formation of a biocompatible gel, and may be carried out in situ, i.e., at a selected site within a patient's body. The method involves admixing a biocompatible crosslinking component A having m sulfhydryl groups wherein m≧2 and a biocompatible crosslinking component B having n sulfhydryl-reactive groups wherein n≧2 and m+n>4, wherein the sulfhydryl-reactive groups are capable of covalent reaction with the sulfhydryl groups upon admixture of the components under effective crosslinking conditions to form a gel in less than one minute. Suitable reaction conditions for carrying out the crosslinking reaction will depend on the particular components and the type of reaction involved; that is, the “effective crosslinking conditions” may involve reaction in bulk or in a solvent, addition of a base, and/or irradiation of the admixture in the presence of a free radical initiator.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to two-part polymer compositions that rapidly form covalent linkages when mixed together. Such compositions are particularly well suited for use in a variety of tissue related applications when rapid adhesion to the tissue and gel formation is desired. In particular, they are useful as tissue sealants, in promoting hemostasis, for drug delivery, in effecting tissue adhesion, in providing tissue augmentation, and in the prevention of surgical adhesions.

Abstract: Methods and implant devices for use in tissue repair. The implant devices include resorbable, swellable implant bodies, formed from a dehydrated crosslinked biocompatible polymer. The implant devices are capable of swelling after insertion into tissues to become anchored in place.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are uniformly shaped swellable devices comprising polymeric materials, as well as apparatuses and processes for their manufacture. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to load bearing implant devices for use in tissue repair. The implants consist of a resorbable, swellable implant body which is formed from a dehydrated crosslinked biocompatible polymer. As such, the implants are capable of swelling after insertion to become anchored in place. The implants function to enhance the structural integrity of the hard tissue into which they are placed, and thereby improve the load bearing capacity of such tissues. The implants are particularly well suited for use in attaching a second (hard or soft) tissue to the first (hard) tissue into which the implant is inserted. They may also be used as a site for attachment of a surgical device such as a screw, rod or pin.