Abstract: Disclosed are device for promoting the clotting of blood comprising a clay material and a release agent. In some embodiments, the clay material is disposed within a substrate and the release agent is disposed within a mesh. The release agent can be configured to make direct contact with a bleeding wound when the device is in particle form and the clay material can promote hemostasis.

Abstract: Disclosed is a biocompatible, hemostatic, cross-linked gelatin composition comprising a biocompatible material comprising cross-linked gelatin and a sufficient amount of wetting agent to permit uniform wetting of the sponge in the presence of an aqueous solution.

Abstract: A dihydroxyphenyl cross-linked macromolecular network is provided that is useful in artificial tissue and tissue engineering applications, particularly to provide a synthetic macromolecular network for a wide variety of tissue types. In particular, artificial or synthetic cartilage, vocal cord material, vitreous material, soft tissue material and mitral valve material are described. In an embodiment, the network is composed of tyramine-substituted and cross-linked hyaluronan molecules, wherein cross-linking is achieved via peroxidase-mediated dityramine-linkages that can be performed in vivo. The dityramine bonds provide a stable, coherent hyaluronan-based hydrogel with desired physical properties.

Abstract: A pharmaceutically delivery system is described comprising a pharmaceutically active agent and acidified nitrite as an agent to produce local production of nitric oxide at the skin surface. The dosage form may be in any pharmaceutically acceptable carrier means and comprises an acidifying agent adapted to reduce the pH at the environment. In one embodiment, a barrier consisting of a membrane allows diffusions of the anaesthetic and nitrite ions while preventing direct contact of the skin and acidifying agent.

Abstract: A pharmaceutically delivery system and method of use therefor are described comprising a pharmaceutically active agent and acidified nitrite as an agent to produce local production of nitric oxide at the skin surface. The dosage form may be in any pharmaceutically acceptable carrier means and comprises an acidifying agent adapted to reduce the pH at the environment. In one embodiment, a barrier consisting of a membrane allows diffusions of the anaesthetic and nitrite ions while preventing direct contact of the skin and acidifying agent.

Abstract: A hemostatic device for promoting the clotting of blood includes a gauze substrate, a clay material disposed on the gauze substrate, and also a polyol such as glycerol or the like disposed on the gauze substrate to bind the clay material. When the device is used to treat a bleeding wound, at least a portion of the clay material comes into contact with blood emanating from the wound to cause the clotting. A bandage that can be applied to a bleeding wound to promote the clotting of blood includes a flexible substrate and a gauze substrate mounted thereon. The gauze substrate includes a clay material and a polyol. A hemostatic sponge also includes a gauze substrate and a dispersion of hemostatic material and a polyol on a first surface of the substrate.

Abstract: Methods, system and compositions for making and using a bioresorbable linked dressing made of bioresorbable microspheres in various configurations are provided for use in applying reduced pressure to a wound site. The methods include manufacture of a bioresorbable dressing comprising a casing and bioresorbable microspheres in the form of a rope shape. Further, the casing of the dressing comprises pores formed by a porogen system that may be activated by external to the wound or formed in situ within the wound site. The shape of the dressing allows the dressing to be placed into the wound site such that it fills the shape and size of the wound. Embodiments include formation of various rope dressing and their use in conjunction with reduced pressure therapy.

Abstract: Pharmaceutically acceptable hydrogel polymers of natural, recombinant or synthetic origin, or hybrids thereof, are introduced in a dry, less hydrated, or substantially deswollen state and rehydrate in a physiological environment to undergo a volumetric expansion and to affect sealing, plugging, or augmentation of tissue, defects in tissue, or of organs. The hydrogel polymers may deliver therapeutic entities by controlled release at the site. Methods to form useful devices from such polymers, and to implant the devices are provided.

Abstract: Provided herein are skin substitutes suitable for use in a living subject for purpose of repairing damaged tissues, methods of producing the skin substitutes and their uses. A biocomposite membrane comprising poly(?-caprolactone) (PCL) and at least one material selected from collagen and gelatin is provided. In one embodiment, the biocomposite is a 2-component membrane of PCL and gelatin. In another embodiment, the biocomposite is a 3-component membrane of PCL, collagen and gelatin. The bio-composite membrane may be used directly in vivo as a wound dressing, or as a support for cell growth on each side of the membrane to produce an in vitro cultivated artificial skin for future in vivo and/or in vitro applications.

Abstract: Provided are articles containing a solid surface material with an antimicrobial agent in a thermoset and/or thermoplastic resin matrix, wherein the antimicrobial agent comprises a chitosan-metal complex.

Abstract: Provided, among other things, is a slowly dissolvable film comprising: herbal bioactive agent(s); and polymer(s), dissolvable in the aggregate, wherein the film becomes adhesive as it is placed against a mucosal surface and begins to absorb moisture therefrom.

Abstract: Methods accelerate healing of a wound by applying a multilayer bandage to the wound. The multilayer bandage has a spun-bonded webbing comprising at least one partially or completely hydrolytically condensed silicon compound and a water-impervious or semi-permeable first membrane having at least one water-insoluble polymer. The webbing has a biologically degradable or biologically resorbable structure and is brought into direct contact with the wound by placing the webbing in or on the wound.

Abstract: Self-setting, absorbable bioactive polycyanoacrylate-based composites include at least one inorganic phosphate salt or a combination of at least one inorganic phosphate salt and calcium silicate in a cyanoacrylate matrix. The composites can be reinforced with single- or multicomponent absorbable, warp-knitted mesh, thus producing a broad range of absorbable, bioactive biomaterials suitable for use not only as preferred absorbable alternatives to the commercial non-absorbable polymethyl methacrylate bone cements, but also for repairing or replacing cranial and maxillofacial bone defects and other complex defects through guided bone regeneration.

Abstract: Liquid, injectable, aqueous solutions are transformed in situ to an expandable foam-like, space filling, and adherent biomaterial. Preferably, the foam-like biomaterial is the reaction product of a two-part liquid system to achieve the in situ formation thereof. The liquid system is generally comprised of a protein solution and a cross linker solution which may either be premixed and then applied to a site in need of the biomaterial, or simultaneously mixed and delivered through an in-line mixing/dispensing tip directly to the site. In especially preferred embodiments, an expandable foam-like biomaterial includes the reaction product of human or animal-derived protein material and a di- or polyaldehyde in the presence of a bicarbonate and an acidic titrant amounts sufficient to impart a cellular foam structure to the material.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to biodegradable and/or bioresorbable fibrous articles and more particularly to products and methods having utility in medical applications.

Abstract: Bioabsorbable compositions of A) blends of bioabsorbable homopolymers and/or copolymers containing glycolide and lactide and B) salts of fatty acids and/or fatty acid esters are described. Processes for making the compositions and surgical articles made totally or in part therefrom, including suture coatings, are also described.

Abstract: Liquid, injectable, aqueous solutions are transformed in situ to an expandable foam-like, space filling, and adherent biomaterial. Preferably, the foam-like biomaterial is the reaction product of a two-part liquid system to achieve the in situ formation thereof. The liquid system is generally comprised of a protein solution and a cross linker solution which may either be premixed and then applied to a site in need of the biomaterial, or simultaneously mixed and delivered through an in-line mixing/dispensing tip directly to the site. In especially preferred embodiments, an expandable foam-like biomaterial includes the reaction product of human or animal-derived protein material and a di- or polyaldehyde in the presence of a bicarbonate and an acidic titrant amounts sufficient to impart a cellular foam structure to the material.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for treating and preventing benign breast disease by administering 4-hydroxy tamoxifen to a patient. When percutaneously administered to a patient's breasts, 4-hydroxy tamoxifen concentrates locally, and exerts an anti-estrogenic effect. In patients with benign breast disease, this effect induces disease regression. In patients at risk for developing breast cancer, the anti-estrogenic effect prevents formation of benign breast conditions that can lead to cancer.

Abstract: New topical medicaments are provided. The medicaments comprise menthol and camphor, preferably provided as part of a base gel, supplemented with potassium and a source of oxygen. The most preferred base gel is sold under the name SOMBRA, while the most preferred source of oxygen is a chlorite (e.g., sodium chlorite) and/or spirulina. The medicaments provide high metabolic activities and sustain those activities over prolonged periods of time, thus being useful for treating a large variety of ailments, including diabetic neuropathy, post hepatic neuralgia, scleroderma, psoriasis, strain, spasticity, headaches, neuropathy secondary to drugs, peripheral neuropathy, leg pain, muscle cramps, muscle aches and pains, bruise, sinusitis, sprain, arthritis, joint pain (arthralgia), and edema.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for enhancing transmucosal uptake of a medicament, e.g., fentanyl or buprenorphine, to a subject and related devices. The method includes administering to a subject a transmucosal drug delivery device comprising the medicament. Also provided are devices suitable for transmucosal administration of a medicament to a subject and methods of their administration and use. The devices include a medicament disposed in a mucoadhesive polymeric diffusion environment and a barrier environment.

Abstract: A composition for transdermal administration resulting from an admixture includes: a therapeutically effective amount of a drug that includes a parent drug and a prodrug; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein the parent drug and prodrug are individually present in an amount sufficient for a pharmacological effect. In a preferred embodiment, the admixture includes: a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutically active agent that includes a corresponding steroid and a steroid derivative; and a carrier for the pharmaceutically active agent. The steroid and the corresponding steroid derivative are present in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:10 steroid: corresponding steroid derivative. In a preferred embodiment ratio is 6:1 to 1:6. In a preferred embodiment, the corresponding steroid derivative is a steroid ester. In another preferred embodiment, the carrier is a polymer that includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

Abstract: A dihydroxyphenyl cross-linked macromolecular network is provided that is useful in artificial tissue and tissue engineering applications, particularly to provide a synthetic macromolecular network for a wide variety of tissue types. In particular, artificial or synthetic cartilage, vocal cord material, vitreous material, soft tissue material and mitral valve material are described. In an embodiment, the network is composed of tyramine-substituted and cross-linked hyaluronan molecules, wherein cross-linking is achieved via peroxidase-mediated dityramine-linkages that can be performed in vivo. The dityramine bonds provide a stable, coherent hyaluronan-based hydrogel with desired physical properties.

Abstract: Resorbable lactide polymer thin membranes are disclosed. The thin membranes are constructed of polylactide resorbable polymers, which are engineered to be absorbed into the body relatively slowly over time in order to reduce potential negative side effects. The membranes are formed to have very thin thicknesses, for example, thicknesses between about 0.010 mm and about 0.300 mm. The membranes can be extruded from polylactide polymers having a relatively high viscosity property, can be preshaped with relatively thick portions, and can be stored in sterile packages.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical dosage form for transmucosal delivery of an active agent to two or more mucosal surfaces. The dosage form is presented as a transmucosal delivery device. The devices of the invention may include at least two mucoadhesive surfaces. The devices may further include an intermediate layer disposed between the mucoadhesive layers. The pharmaceutical can be incorporated in any one or all of the mucoadhesive layers or the intermediate layer. Upon application, the device adheres to at least two surfaces, providing transmucosal delivery of the drug to at least two surfaces.

Abstract: A dosage form includes a dose of at least one bioactive agent and a substance that can be readily confirmed by medical personnel to determine if the patient is compliant with taking the dosage form.

Abstract: A dermal, transdermal, mucosal or transmucosal delivery device is provided. The device includes a backing layer, defining an ingredient containing reservoir, a cover for the reservoir having at least one opening therethrough, an adhesive layer and a liner layer. Upon removal of the liner layer, the device may be placed over the desired area of the skin or mucosa and adhesively applied thereto allowing the ingredients to flow from the reservoir through the at least one opening to the dermis or mucosa.

Abstract: A tissue marker formed of a biodegradable polymer having drug-delivery capabilities is combined with a sealant that encapsulates the tissue marker and which serves to help anchor the tissue marker against migration. The sealant is delivered to a site in dehydrated form and moisture inherent in tissue at the site expands the sealant. The expanded sealant is formed of a hydrogel and is therefore more compatible to the surrounding tissue than the material of the tissue marker. The sealant and the tissue marker are both bioabsorbed over time.

Abstract: The invention relates to a transdermal therapeutic system (TTS), preferably in the form of a transdermal plaster, that contains an active substance and an agent which can destroy the active substance. The TTS further includes a means of bringing the active substance, e.g. buprenorphine, and the agent, e.g. potassium permanganate, into contact when the TTS is removed from the skin of the patient, thereby causing the active substance to be destroyed.

Abstract: A device for promoting the clotting of blood comprises a clay material in particle form and a receptacle for containing the clay material. At least a portion of the receptacle is defined by a mesh. Another device comprises a gauze substrate and a clay material disposed on the gauze substrate. Another device is a bandage comprising a substrate, a mesh mounted on the substrate, and particles of a clay material retained in the mesh. A hemostatic sponge comprises a substrate, a hemostatic material disposed on a first surface of the substrate, and a release agent disposed on a second surface of the substrate. The release agent is disposed on the wound-contacting surface of the substrate. When treating a bleeding wound, application of the hemostatic sponge causes at least a portion of the hemostatic material to come into contact with blood through the release agent and through the substrate.

Abstract: Provided herein are polymeric adhesives which may be cured by inductive heating and which are suitable for treating tissue in an individual to effect a weld between one or more tissues or between a tissue and at least one non-tissue substrate. Also provided are methods using the adhesives and methods of manufacture.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multilayer bandage, having a webbing for contacting a wound and a first membrane that has at least one water-insoluble polymer and is water-impervious. The present invention further provides methods for making the multilayer bandage, methods of using the multilayer bandage for accelerated wound healing, and kits having compositions of the present invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel silica sol material containing at least one therapeutically active ingredient and its use for the production of bioabsorbable and biodegradable silica gel materials with improved properties. The materials, such as, for example, fibers, fleeces, powder, monolith and/or coating are employed, for example, in medical technology and/or human medicine, in particular for wound treatment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for use in osteodistraction procedures. In one embodiment, a method of stimulating osteogenesis during and/or following bone distraction comprises providing a composition comprising a PDGF solution disposed in a biocompatible matrix and applying the composition to at least one site of bone distraction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a haemostatic material comprising a carrier layer and a material for wound contact comprising at least one haemostat in particulate, granular, powder, flake or short fibrous form. Such a haemostatic material is useful, for example, in reducing or stopping bleeding of a physiological target site in a person or animal, and can also be used to stem bleeding during medical procedures.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for preparing a selectively releasable adhesive includes condensing a multifunctional alcohol and a multifunctional carboxylic acid to form a prepolymer and curing the prepolymer at an elevated temperature and a vacuum to produce a cured polymer.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an article incorporating a selectively-releasable adhesive includes a substrate having a surface and a layer of selectively-releasable adhesive provided on the surface of the substrate, the selectively-releasable adhesive comprising a copolymer formed from a multifunctional alcohol and a multifunctional carboxylic acid that has been cured.

Abstract: A method of separating biologically ingestible microparticles is used to obtain biologically ingestible microparticles in a thin film fluid formed between two processing surfaces provided with a solution containing a first solvent in which an objective substance to be pulverized is dissolved and a solvent capable of serving as a second solvent in which the solubility of the microparticles is lower than in the first solvent, the two processing surfaces being arranged so as to be able to approach to and separate from each other, at least one of which rotates relative to the other.

Abstract: A gel, for cosmetic use, composed of a mixture of a polymer which forms a gel, a surfactant, and propionyl L-carnitine glycinate hydrochloride, useful for treating disturbances of the skin such as cellulite and wrinkles is described.

Abstract: Precut, user-shapeable, resorbable polymer micro-membranes having cusped orifices are disclosed. The micro-membranes are constructed of resorbable polymers, which are engineered to attenuate adhesions. The membranes can formed to have very thin thicknesses, for example, thicknesses between about 0.010 mm and about 0.300 mm, while maintaining adequate strength. The membranes can be extruded from polylactide polymers having a relatively high viscosity property, can be stored in sterile packages, and can be preshaped with relatively high reproducibility during implantation procedures.

Abstract: Described are medical devices configured for use in cosmetic surgery. The medical devices include an elongate body member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a plurality of gaps defined therebetween. At least a portion of the body member is associated with one or more layers of a collagenous extracellular matrix (ECM) material. The elongate member can include one or more tissue engaging members. In preferred embodiments, the collagenous extracellular matrix material includes one or more native or non-native bioactive components.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a tissue cell culture system whereby a call tissue can be efficiently and quickly proliferated in vivo and the onset bacterial infection in an injured part can be avoided in the course of a treatment. More specifically, a closed cell culture system (1) characterized in that a defection (2) of a tissue on the body surface or inside the body is tightly sealed to form a closed environment free from the invasion of bacteria, etc. and then a solution appropriate for cell culture is circulated in the tissue defection thus sealed to thereby regenerate the defective tissue; and a method of administering a drug which comprises dissolving a remedy in the perfusion with the use of the above system and thus promoting the treatment of the defection.

Abstract: The invention relates to single-layer oral disintegrating films having at least two distinct zones, which comprise nicotine and allow for effective buccal (=oral mucosal) absorption thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biodegradable barrier network comprising at least two polypeptides, one being anionic and the other one cationic. The invention also relates to applicators and kits comprising components to be used to create said biodegradable barrier network. The invention also relates to the use of said applicator or kit in therapy, such as in medicine, veterinary medicine and horticulture.

Abstract: This invention is a prosthetic device generally placed on the outside surface of the vessel or graft which then elutes antiproliferative drugs or agents from a drug-eluting matrix material. Methods of perivascular antiproliferative drug administration also are disclosed.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for alleviating the symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia syndrome are provided. The compositions are based on use of a transdermal gel formulation delivery system for androgens, either alone or in combination with other hormones.

Abstract: A method of treatment comprises administering 4-hydroxy tamoxifen percutaneously to a patient having mastalgia. The 4-hydroxy tamoxifen may be formulated in a hydroalcoholic gel or an alcoholic solution.

Abstract: Pharmaceutically acceptable hydrogel polymers of natural, recombinant or synthetic origin, or hybrids thereof, are introduced in a dry, less hydrated, or substantially deswollen state and rehydrate in a physiological environment to undergo a volumetric expansion and to affect sealing, plugging, or augmentation of tissue, defects in tissue, or of organs. The hydrogel polymers may deliver therapeutic entities by controlled release at the site. Methods to form useful devices from such polymers, and to implant the devices are provided.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a selectively-releasable adhesive includes a copolymer formed from a multifunctional alcohol and a multifunctional carboxylic acid, wherein the copolymer has been cured the equivalent of up to approximately 20 hours at 120° C. and 100 millitorr.

Abstract: A composition of matter comprises a lanolin free absorption base. The absorption base in includes a superior lanolin free emulsifier selected for its HLB (hydrophilic-lipophilic balance) compatibility, neutral, nonionic absorption base ideal for the incorporation of many active ingredients. Use of this emulsifier permits low production temperatures during base manufacture, thereby allowing incorporation of heat labile active ingredients. More efficient emulsification is realized, which leads to a much lower concentration of emulsifier. The absorption base is especially effective formulation for hydrocortisone or its salts due to HLB compatibility, and stabilizing ingredients often found in prior art products can be eliminated due to HLB compatibility.

Abstract: Methods for improved treatment of wounds on a patient. Method includes locally administering a healing composition to the skin wound such that the healing of the skin wound is enhanced. The healing composition includes from about 5 mg to about 40 mg lidocaine hydrochloride per gram of the healing composition, from about 250 units to about 2000 units polymyxin B sulfate per gram of the healing composition, and from about 10 units to about 100 units bacitracin zinc per gram of the healing composition.