Abstract: A method of retrieving fetal cells from an endocervical sample by removing the mucus from the endocervical sample by disassociating fetal cells and maternal cells in the endocervical sample; and isolating disassociated fetal cells from other cells in the endocervical sample. Also provided is a method of retrieving fetal cells from an endocervical sample, by obtaining a mixture of disassociated cells prepared by the above method, treating the cells with a fetal-specific antibody, identifying cells that have bound to the fetal-specific antibody, and isolating the identified cells. The disassociated cell prepared by the above method can be analyzed and used for a variety of purposes including, but not limited to, the identification of fetal cells among cervical cells, determination of fetal cell density to predict high risk pregnancy, genetic analysis of fetal cells, and determination of growth factor or other biomarker expression to predict obstetrical disorders.

Abstract: A method of retrieving fetal cells from an endocervical sample by removing the mucus from the endocervical sample by disassociating fetal cells and maternal cells in the endocervical sample; and isolating disassociated fetal cells from other cells in the endocervical sample. Also provided is a method of retrieving fetal cells from an endocervical sample, by obtaining a mixture of disassociated cells prepared by the above method, treating the cells with a fetal-specific antibody, identifying cells that have bound to the fetal-specific antibody, and isolating the identified cells. The disassociated cell prepared by the above method can be analyzed and used for a variety of purposes including, but not limited to, the identification of fetal cells among cervical cells, determination of fetal cell density to predict high risk pregnancy, genetic analysis of fetal cells, and determination of growth factor or other biomarker expression to predict obstetrical disorders.

Abstract: Aromatase inhibitors are administered to a female patient prior to endometrial ablation or resection procedures in order to thin the endometrium to a thickness of less than 6 mm, and preferably less than 4 mm, so as to enhance the treatment outcome. Of course, administration of aromatase inhibitors would be useful for other surgical procedures on the endometrial cavity and the uterus. Commercially available aromatase inhibitors, including, the nonsteroidal preparations, anastrozole and letrozole, and a steroidal agent, exemestane, are well-tolerated, and have been shown to decrease serum estrogen levels. The aromatase inhibitor can be used alone, or in combination with other aromatase inhibitors or pharmaceutical agents, such as hormones.

Abstract: Following a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy, at least one aromatase inhibitor, is administered to a patient, either alone or in combination with other aromatase inhibitors or therapeutic agents or as an adjuvant to conservative surgical treatment, such as laparoscopy, to prevent the establishment and/or continuation of the ectopic pregnancy. In certain preferred embodiments, the aromatase inhibitor is administered in conjunction with methotrexate.

Abstract: Methods for the prevention of adhesion formation involve the administration of therapeutic formulations to a patient which include antibodies to TIMP-1 or TIMP-1 antisense oligonucleotides. The formulations can also include suitable carriers, such as a hyaluronic acid matrix, for optimal administration. The treatment procedure can be initiated and monitored by a diagnostic procedure which involves the detection of elevated levels of TIMP-1 in a patient.

Abstract: Methods for the prevention of adhesion formation and development involve the administration of therapeutic formulations to a patient which modulates the rate of apoptosis of adhesion fibroblast cells. The formulations preferably include Bax, Bax enhancers, such as p53, Bax agonists, Bcl-2 inhibitors and Bcl-2 antagonists. A method is also provided for determining the predisposition of a subject to adhesion formation by measuring the Bcl-2/Bax ratio at multiple sites within the subject.

Abstract: A biological model for the development of adhesions in vitro comprises a pair of opposed surfaces of tissue explants maintained in a culture media for a sufficient time and under conditions to permit the formation of adhesions. The model is useful for evaluating compounds and techniques for the prevention and remediation of adhesions, and for individualizing the therapeutic options for patients who may experience adhesions.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the prevention of adhesion development involve the administration of therapeutic formulations of a halogenated organic compound to a patient in need of treatment. The formulations can include suitable carriers for optimal administration.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the prevention of adhesion development involve the administration of therapeutic formulations of a halogenated organic compound to a patient in need of treatment. The formulations can include suitable carriers for optimal administration.