Abstract: The present application is directed to compositions and methods for mechanically controlling the bleeding of bone. The compositions comprise in intimate admixture the following Components 1, 2 and 3: (1) a finely powdered, carboxylic acid salt comprising a carboxylate anion and a metallic cation, (2) a composition comprising pyrrolidone or an N-alkyl pyrrolidone wherein alkyl is a C1-C12 alkyl radical and an optional, biocompatible liquefying agent if the composition is in solid form at room temperature, and (3) an optional analgesic, wherein the analgesic is present in a free base and salt form.

Abstract: A surgical sponge device comprising a porous cellular absorbent sponge which is cut into rigid segments. The segments are slidably mounted on a strand with a stop to keep the segments from falling off of said strand. The strung segments may be covered by a fluid impervious sleeve which, when removed, allows the rigid segments to wick up fluid to expand from a compressed condition to a predetermined larger size.

Abstract: Multiple daily applications of a topical composition having as the active ingredients an anesthetic and a surfactant with anti-viral activity decrease the time of healing of herpes simplex viral lesions from approximately seven to ten days to five to six days, as well as decrease inflammation and pain. The composition is applied to the lesions daily, approximately every four hours, preferably beginning at the prodromal stage of infection. Relief is almost immediate, and is characterized by decreased pain, swelling, and more rapid healing as compared with the untreated lesion.

Abstract: A method of reducing post-operative adhesion formation by topically applying an ionically crosslinked carboxyl-containing polysaccharide or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. sodium hyaluronate crosslinked with ferric chloride, to a site of surgical trauma.

Abstract: Gel formulations containing polypeptide growth factors having human mitogenic or angiogenic activity are provided. The gel formulations are useful for topical or incisional wound healing for cutaneous wounds, in the anterior chamber of the eye and other ophthalmic wound healing. The gel formulations also comprise a water soluble, pharmaceutically or ophthalmically compatible polymeric material for providing viscosity within various ranges determined by the application of the gel. The gel formulations provide controlled release and increased contact time of the growth factor to the wound site.

Abstract: Multiple daily applications of a topical composition having as the active ingredients an anesthetic and a surfactant with anti-vital activity decrease the time of healing of herpes simplex viral lesions from approximately seven to ten days to five to six days, as well as decrease inflammation and pain. The composition is applied to the lesions daily, approximately every four hours, preferably beginning at the prodromal stage of infection. Relief is almost immediate, and is characterized by decreased pain, swelling, and more rapid healing as compared with the untreated lesion.

Abstract: Low molecular weight absorbable copolymers of p-dioxanone with lactide and/or glycolide are used as coatings for surgical filaments to improve tactile smoothness and tie-down properties. These copolymers are prepared by reacting p-dioxanone with lactide and/or glycolide in the presence of an initiator such as a mono- or polyhydric alcohol or a hydroxy acid.

Abstract: An absorbable biologically compatible putty-like composition is used as a matrix from which immunologically or pharmacologically active agents, such as antibiotics, can be introduced into the body to provide a slow sustained release of the agent over an extended period of time. A preferred matrix comprises a mixture of calcium stearate, dextran and castor oil.

Abstract: A surgical device fabricated from a synthetic absorbable polymer containing an absorbable glass filler.

Abstract: An absorbable biologically compatible putty-like composition is used as a matrix from which immunologically or pharmacologically active agents, such as antibiotics, can be introduced into the body to provide a slow sustained release of the agent over an extended period of time. A preferred matrix comprises a mixture of calcium stearate, dextran and castor oil.

Abstract: A method for closing wounds and surgical incisions in mammalian tissue which comprises fastening an approximated wound or incision with a series of devices comprising a short filament with a head on each end, each device being surgically placed so that the filament traverses the wound or incision within the tissue while one head of the device engages the surface of the tissue on either side of the wound or incision. Apparatus is provided for the surgical placement of the device.

Abstract: Carbalkoxyalkyl 2-cyanoacrylates having the formula: ##STR1## wherein R is an organic radical and R' is hydrogen or methyl polymerize rapidly in the presence of moisture and are useful as adhesives. When applied as tissue adhesives in surgical applications, such carbalkoxyalkyl 2-cyanoacrylates cause a minimum of tissue reaction and the resulting polymer is absorbable in mammalian tissue.