Abstract: The present invention provides a method of nerve repair using localized delivery of heat. The method involves localized induction of hyperthermia for end-to-end attachment of severed peripheral nerves by delivering stimulus responsive materials and exposing them to an excitation source under conditions wherein they emit heat. The generation of heat effects the joining of the nerve ends.

Abstract: A tissue closure device can include a structural material and a stimulus responsive material on or in the structural material. The structural material can be biodegradable and/or bioabsorbable (e.g., biocompatible natural and/or semi-natural and/or synthetic polymer). The stimulus responsive material can be a particle, such as a nanoparticle. The structural material is shaped as a suture, staple, screw, patch, adhesive, sealant, or the like. A biologically active agent can be included. A method of promoting wound healing can include: approximating tissue portions; and stimulating the stimulus responsive material with a stimulus to cause the tissue portions of the wound to adhere to each other. The stimulus is selected from optical, electrical, thermal, chemical, mechanical, magnetic, acoustic, pressure, shear, biological, or enzymatic sources.