Abstract: A wound dressing having anti-microbial activity comprises a first fibre capable of bonding with silver (1) cations. The wound dressing comprises a blend of the first fibre to which silver (1) cations are bonded and a second fibre which is substantially free from silver. The wound dressing comprises from 0.01 to 5.0 percent by weight of silver (1) cations, based on the weight of fibre.

Abstract: A dressing for use with ostomy devices. The dressing has a dressing layer covered by protective cover layer and a release sheet. The dressing has an adhesive composition on a skin-contacting surface. The dressing layer has a thick center portion surrounded by a flange portion with a hole to accommodate the ostomy device. The thick portion has a thickness of less than 2.0 mm. and preferably a thickness of 0.91 mm. The flange portion has a thickness of 0.15 to 1.80 mm. and extends no more than 5.0 mm. from the edge of the thick portion. The configuration of the dressing layer, particularly when used with a hydrocolloid adhesive provides a dressing having wrinkle resistant edges allowing the dressing to be used in areas of the body having high mobility.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved process for controlling the absorbency and other properties of collagen flakes. The process comprises using freeze-dried collagen material and heating the freeze dried collagen material to a predetermined temperature range between 80 C. and 200 C. for a selected period of time. The collagen flakes will have an improved absorbency, density, porosity, and color. The color of the collagen flakes varies from white to brown. The porosity, absorbency, density and color of the collagen is selectively dependent upon the time and temperature used to heat the collagen flakes. The absorption of the collagen material is selected to be between two to twenty times the weight of the product, and the density of the collagen material is selected to be between 0.1 g/cc to 1.0 g/cc. The collagen flakes are ground into a powder after heating, for use as a wound dressing for medium to high exudative wounds.

Abstract: A keratotic plug remover composition comprising a polymer compound having a salt forming group is disclosed. The composition according to the invention can effectively remove keratotic plugs in the skin pores, so that the conspicuousness of the skin pores is mitigated and clean and healthy skin pores can be maintained. The composition does not hurt the skin.

Abstract: An adhesive composition having dispersed therein a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent for use in medical applications, such as an adhesive for surgical drapes, wound dressings and tapes. The adhesive is composed of acrylic polymers, tackifiers and a preferred antimicrobial agent, diiodomethyl-p-tolylsulfone. The adhesive composition is essentially solventless and capable of application in a hot melt process while maintaining stability at elevated temperatures in the range of 275° F. to 350° F., which not only allows hot melt application, but allows for ethylene oxide sterilization under heat stress.

Abstract: A pre-vaccination or pre-procedural topical anesthetic/antiseptic patch which functions not unlike a nicotine patch and which is essentially an adhesive bandage containing a topical anesthetic and a topical antiseptic. The bandage anesthetic/antiseptic carrying device may be of any shape or size. It is applied to a person's skin at a site where a needle is to be inserted such that the site will have a topical anesthetic and a topical antiseptic applied. When the bandage is removed from the site prior to a needle being inserted a visible delineation of a target area is visible on the skin. That is, that side of the bandage which contacts the skin will contain a demarcating fabric material, in the form of a circle or any other geometric shape, smaller than the diameter or size of the adhesive bandage, that will remain on the wearer's skin whereby when the bandage is removed the demarcating fabric material will delineate the site which is the “target” area.

Abstract: The invention provides wound dressings and methods of their use, especially for the treatment of chronic, non-healing wounds. The wound dressings are composed of a support matrix, such as cotton cellulose, and an active agent associated with the support matrix. The active agent may be a protease inhibitor or a protease sequestrant, in particular an inhibitor or sequestrant of a neutrophil-derived cationic protease such as elastase.

Abstract: The dressings of the invention comprise at least two components: an absorbent substrate having a first skin-facing surface and a second opposing surface; and a discontinuous coating of a semi-solid composition having an ointment-like feel overlying a portion of the first surface of said absorbent substrate. The absorbent substrate is useful as a passive dispenser of at least one active ingredient that may be contained therein. The discontinuous coating is essentially non-adherent to the skin and is useful as an active dispenser of at least one active ingredient that may be contained therein. In preferred embodiments the dressing of the invention contains at least one and more preferably at least two active ingredients intended to provide therapeutic benefit to the skin.

Abstract: A wound dressing having a metallic compound as an anti-microbial agent. The dressing includes a dressing layer that contacts a patient's skin at the wound bed. The composition of the dressing layer includes metallic compounds in which metallic ions, such as silver, are maintained in the dressing composition. The metallic compound is combined with a hydrocolloid adhesive to provide a highly absorbing dressing. As exudate is absorbed, contact with the metallic ions provides the anti-microbial effect. The metallic ions may be maintained in compounds such as zeolite and hydroxyl apatite mixed with a hydrocolloid adhesive.

Abstract: A soluble hemostatic gauze is made from a cotton gauze immersed in an aqueous solution of from 90% to 95% ethanol at room temperature for at least 50 minutes and then exposed to an aqueous solution of NaOH at a temperature of from 35° to 40° C. for from 90 to 150 minutes. Next the cotton gauze is kept in an aqueous solution of acetic chloride at a temperature of from 35° to 40° C. for from 90 to 150 minutes and then washed in an aqueous solution of ethanol for a sufficient time to neutralize the cotton gauze and remove residue salts from the gauze resulting in a soluble hemostatic gauze. That soluble hemostatic gauze is then dried. An antibiotic or other pharmaceutically effective agent may be linked to the gauze molecules.

Abstract: An absorbent article, particularly a tampon having additives that reduce toxic shock syndrome toxin (TST-1) production is disclosed. The tampon has a combination of an effective amount of at least one oxygen inhibiting agent and an effective amount of at least one surface active agent applied to: the surface of the absorbent tampon material; the surfaces of the fibers comprising the tampon; to the tampon applicator; or any combination of the foregoing. The effective amounts of the oxygen inhibiting agent and the surface active agent are sufficient to reduce the toxin production at lease about 50%, but do not negatively affect the wearer's normal vaginal flora.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mixture for use as wound dressing, which comprises: a) paraffins complying with DAB and/or synthetic waxes selected from the group consisting of montan waxes, petroleum waxes, Fischer-Tropsch waxes, polyolefin waxes, petrolatum, wax alcohols, and oxidates of the aforementioned substances; b) at least one metal hydroxide. The mixture is stable on prolonged storage at room temperature and promotes collagen regeneration in vivo in cases of bone trauma.

Abstract: The present patent describes a three-dimensional inter-connected open cell porous foams that have a gradient in composition and/or microstructure through one or more directions. These foams can be made from a blend of absorbable and biocompatible polymers that are formed into foams having a compositional gradient transitioning from predominately one polymeric material to predominately a second polymeric material. These gradient foams are particularly well suited to tissue engineering applications and can be designed to mimic tissue transition or interface zones.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for treating nails and adjacent tissues are disclosed. The compositions include non-interlinked particles of bioactive glass, alone or in combination with therapeutic agents, hydrophilic polymers, and other optional components. The compositions optionally include an appropriate aqueous carrier for topical administration. The methods involve applying an effective nail-enhancing amount of the composition to the nails and adjacent tissues for a sufficient amount of time to cause the formation of a hydroxyapatite or other calcium phosphate mineral layer on the nail surface.

Abstract: An absorbent article having a bodyside liner includes a hydrophilic lotion formulation on the outer bodyfacing surface thereof. The hydrophilic lotion formulation comprises from about 10 to about 90 weight percent of a hydrophilic solvent, from about 5 to about 90 weight percent of a high molecular weight polyethylene glycol, and from about 0 to about 60 weight percent of a fatty alcohol. The hydrophilic lotion formulation has a reduced adverse effect on the absorbent and liquid uptake properties of the liner and the absorbent body when compared to conventional lipophilic or hydrophobic lotion formulations. The hydrophilic lotion formulation acts as a lubricant to reduce the abrasion of the skin caused by the liner and also transfers to the skin to provide improved skin health.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for preparing a wound dressing, comprising activating a textile carrier to form between about 0.026 and 0.06 mg-equiv. of aldehyde groups per gram of carrier, impregnating the activated carrier in a solution of at least one bioactive enzyme and drying the same, whereby there is produced a wound dressing from which the bioactive enzyme is releasable in effective amounts for a period of at least 3 days upon the dressing being brought into contact with a moist surface.

Abstract: An adhesive patch is provided wherein the patch includes a flexible backing having a front side and a back side. The patch also includes a therapeutic formulation positioned on and in at least a portion of the front side of the backing such that the therapeutic formulation is partially embedded in at least a portion of the front side of the backing. At least a portion of the backing is treated with a hydrophobic sizing agent such that the portion of the backing that is treated with the hydrophobic sizing agent has a surface energy of about 20 dynes/cm2 to about 65 dynes/cm2. The therapeutic formulation includes a topical acne drug, a solvent that dissolves the topical acne drug, and a pressure sensitive adhesive.

Abstract: Polyurethane elastomer yams (particularly spandex) containing certain silver-based antimicrobial formulations therein are provided. This invention relates to polyurethane elastomer yams (particularly spandex) containing certain silver-based antimicrobial formulations therein. Such formulations comprise antimicrobial compounds, such as, preferably, triclosan and/or silver-containing ion-exchange resins, such as zirconium phosphate, glass, and/or zeolite compounds. The inventive spandex yarns exhibit excellent antimicrobial qualities as well as surprisingly good anti-tack/frictional characteristics. As a result, antimicrobial spandex yams are provided which exhibit ease in processing, particularly in further knitting, weaving, etc., to produce fabrics therefrom. Such fabrics are also encompassed within this invention.

Abstract: A wart, callus and/or corn removing pad including a layer of hydrocolloid adhesive material having a periphery and an underside, a medicated plaster secured centrally to the underside of the layer of hydrocolloid adhesive material and including salicylic acid therein, a barrier layer interposed between the medicated plaster and the layer of hydrocolloid adhesive material to prevent diffusion of the salicylic acid in the medicated plaster to the layer of hydrocolloid adhesive material, an outer layer secured to the layer of hydrocolloid material, the outer layer at least having a border extending outwardly of the layer of hydrocolloid adhesive material, the border having an underside, a layer of adhesive material on the underside of the border, a release liner releasably secured to the underside of the hydrocolloid adhesive layer, and a paper release tab releasably secured to an upper surface of at least one of the hydrocolloid adhesive layer and the outer layer at one side thereof.

Abstract: A class of water insoluble iodophors comprising complexes of iodine with various nylons such as nylon-4,6, nylon-6, nylon-6,6 or other polyamides is disclosed. These nylons complexed with iodine can be made in various forms such as powders, pellets, molded objects, granules, films, monofilaments, and either non-woven or woven fabrics. These nylon based iodophors and other water insoluble iodophors herein disclosed can find product applications in the fields of air treatment, water treatment, public hygiene and medicine.

Abstract: A wound dressing and method for treating a wound with a wound dressing are provided. In particular, the wound dressing contains a fibrous component, for example, made from silk fibers or wool fibers for attracting and capturing proteases from a wound site that may interfere with the healing of the wound.

Abstract: A surgical-medical dressing is described which uniquely uses a sandwich of two extracelluar matrices grown on a composite composed of gelatin-fibronectin-heparan sulfate.

Abstract: A method of rendering antiseptic a packaged solid admixed emulsion for treating bleeding cuts and the like containing, dispersed therein, a bactericidal component that is solid at room temperature, such as cinnamic alcohol, but melts or liquefies at blood temperature upon contacting the blood, comprising elevating the temperature of the packaged emulsion and/or contacting with moisture briefly to commence such liquefying to wet the exterior surface of the solid emulsion, and with concurrent release of bactericidal vapor within the package, and the resulting antiseptic solid emulsion products produced thereby.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a polyvinyl acetal sponge with a smooth outer low durometer silicone skin having less porosity then the foam center. The PVA sponge is washed free of formaldehyde, dried and hydrated and a thin coating of less than 1 mm low durometer silicone is applied to the surface of the sponge and heated at a low temperature ranging from 100° F. and 150° F. over 8 to 16 hours to cure the silicone skin bonding it to the sponge increasing the tear strength of the skin while preserving elasticity. The composite wound dressing allows moisture adsorption through the skin into the PVA sponge body but presents an outer surface precluding wound growth into the sponge material.

Abstract: A wound dressing and delivery system comprising carrier frame that overlaps a heavy absorbent pad on a thin backing of the wound dressing (with the backing sandwiched between the pad and carrier frame) so that the carrier frame and absorbent pad support (e.g., rigidify) the backing to facilitate handling. The carrier frame also has a window over the absorbent pad. Adhesive is provided one major surface of the backing, and the absorbent pad is provided on this major surface. The carrier frame is provided on the opposite major surface to the absorbent pad. The backing is preferably a very thin transparent or translucent elastic polymeric film, and the absorbent pad is relative thick, heavy and stiff and preferably includes hydrocolloid or hydrogel materials. Slits may be provided in the carrier frame to permit one of more portions of the frame to be removed from the backing without removing the entire frame from the backing.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article, e.g., a diaper, feminine hygiene product, adult incontinent product, etc., arranged to be worn by a wearer to trap and collect fluid waste products, e.g., menses, feces and/or urine, of the wearer. The article has a flexible chassis and plural tabs for holding the diaper in place on the wearer. The chassis is made up of a top-sheet, a fluid absorbent core and a skin-treatment agent, e.g., zinc oxide, vitamins A, D and E, allentoin, aluminum hydroxide, Calamine, dimethicone, glycerin, kaolin, shark liver oil, cod liver oil, zinc acetate, lanolin, mineral oil, zinc carbonate, talc, titanium oxides, silver oxides, and combinations thereof. The top sheet is formed of a fluid pervious material, e.g., a fibrous material or a polymeric apertured three dimensional film.

Abstract: A substantially alcohol-free composition for treatment of acne contains about 0.05 to 26% by weight salicylic acid and about 0.05 to 28% by weight of a solubilizing agent for the salicylic acid, which is sodium tetraborate, sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate, dissolved in a cosmetically acceptable aqueous medium.

Abstract: A method for treating wounds including contacting a wound with an effective wound healing amount of bioactive glass and topical antibiotic and composition for the accelerated healing of wounds and burns including particulates of bioactive glass and at least one topical antibiotic.

Abstract: An assay device comprises a sample-collecting wick made from non-woven fabric material laminated to plastics sheet. Preferably, the fabric is a 30:70 blend of viscose and polyester, and has a fibrous structure in which more than two thirds of the fibers run substantially parallel to the intended direction of liquid flow in the wick.

Abstract: A wound dressing for the controlled release of active substance to wounds, especially of wound healing-promoting substances to slow-healing, chronic wounds, is characterized in that said wound dressing has a layered structure for the purpose of absorbing liquid, especially wound exudate, under volume increase, said layered structure at least comprising one polymer-containing layer (1), one woven fabric-like or nonwoven-like layer (2) and at least one active substance, and in that the polymer-containing layer (1) contains hydrocolloid-containing swellable hydrogel as absorbent for liquid.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for treating skin disorders. The present invention is easily administered and can be used for both humans and animals. The compositions of the present invention comprise borate compounds and provide relief from skin disorder symptoms and lesions. Additionally, the present invention can be used to provide long term maintenance of symptom-free skin.

Abstract: A method of treatment for a mammal in need of analgesia from an itching skin comprising applying by directional friction against the skin proximate to the itch a composition consisting essentially of dry elemental iodine in the form of an amorphous condensate. The method is found effective in producing analgesia to the affected skin within 1 to 5 minutes after application.

Abstract: A non-occlusive medication patch to be applied to the skin includes a porous self-supporting backing layer to give the patch the required integrity and strength by acting as a supporting framework for other components, and a flexible hydrophilic pressure-sensitive adhesive reservoir comprising a natural or synthetic polymer for the sustained release of medication to be absorbed topically through the skin into the body of a patient. The reservoir has two portions: first, an external coating layer with an exposed lower skin-contacting surface that forms a pressure-sensitive bond with the skin, and second, an upper internal portion which infiltrates the porous backing and becomes solidified therein after being applied so that the reservoir and the backing are unified, enabling the backing itself to act as a storage location for the medication-containing reservoir.

Abstract: A method of treating peripheral bronchopleural fistula using a collagen matrix hemostatic pad. The method includes the following steps: (1) selecting a peripheral bronchopleural fistula; (2) selecting a collagen matrix hemostatic pad having sufficient size to cover the fistula; (3) aligning the collagen matrix hemostatic pad completely over the fistula; and (4) securing the collagen matrix hemostatic pad to the tissue sorrounding the fistula.

Abstract: Methods are provided for inhibiting stenosis or restenosis following vascular trauma in a mammalian host, comprising administering to the host a therapeutically effective dosage of a cytostatic agent and/or cytoskeletal inhibitor so as to biologically stent the traumatized vessel. Also provided is a method to inhibit or reduce vascular remodeling following vascular trauma, comprising administering an effective amount of a cytoskeletal inhibitor. Further provided are pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising the therapeutic agents of the invention.

Abstract: Blisters of the skin are treated by applying to the skin over the blister a flexible moisture-containing hydrophilic hydrogel patch that includes a backing support such as paper, cloth or plastic and a water-based hydrogel layer applied to the backing. The hydrogel layer comprises a hydrophilic natural or synthetic polymer to provide body dispersed in water and can be a tacky adhesive. The polymer can comprise any high molecular weight hydrophilic carbohydrate such as karaya, cornstarch, or a kelp gel and/or a synthetic hydrophilic polymer such as polyacrylamide or polyacrylic acid. A humectant such as a polyhydric alcohol, keeps the gel layer moist. A solute such as salt, protein, sugar or an alcohol is dissolved in the water in a quantity sufficient to raise the osmotic pressure enough to maintain the hydrogel layer in a hypertonic state with respect to the blister.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel wound coverings with which interfering factors of the wound healing process can be removed from the wound fluid of chronic wounds in a controlled manner and the normal healing process is promoted.

Abstract: The dressings of the invention comprise at least two components: an absorbent substrate having a first skin-facing surface and a second opposing surface; and a discontinuous coating of a semi-solid composition having an ointment-like feel overlying a portion of the first surface of said absorbent substrate. The absorbent substrate is useful as a passive dispenser of at least one active ingredient that may be contained therein. The discontinuous coating is essentially non-adherent to the skin and is useful as an active dispenser of at least one active ingredient that may be contained therein. In preferred embodiments the dressing of the invention contains at least one and more preferably at least two active ingredients intended to provide therapeutic benefit to the skin.

Abstract: A method of effectively treating pain in humans is achieved by administering buprenorphinein accordance with first order kinetics over an initial three-day dosing interval, such that a maximum plasma concentration from about 20 pg/ml to about 1052 pg/ml is attained, and thereafter maintaining the administration of buprenorphine for at least an additional two-day dosing interval in accordance with substantially zero order kinetics, such that the patients experience analgesia throughout the at least two-day additional dosing interval.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for preparing a wound dressing, comprising activating a textile carrier to form between about 0.026 and 0.06 mg-equiv. of aldehyde groups per gram of carrier, impregnating the activated carrier in a solution of at least one bioactive enzyme and drying the same, whereby there is produced a wound dressing from which the bioactive enzyme is releasable in effective amounts for a period of at least 3 days upon the dressing being brought into contact with a moist surface.

Abstract: The invention provides wound dressings and methods of their use, especially for the treatment of chronic, non-healing wounds. The wound dressings are composed of a support matrix, such as cotton cellulose, and an active agent associated with the support matrix. The active agent may be a protease inhibitor or a protease sequestrant, in particular an inhibitor or sequestrant of a neutrophil-derived cationic protease such as elastase.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a vehicle for effecting drug delivery from a solid substrate. Hydrogels loaded with liposomal therapeutic agents such as antibiotics are covalently bonded to the surface of substrates such as in-dwelling medical devices, such as implants, catheters, and the like. The present invention is particularly useful in the treatment and prevention of biofilm mediated infection often associated with the use of in-dwelling medical devices.

Abstract: Blisters of the skin are treated by applying to the skin over the blister a flexible moisture-containing hydrophilic hydrogel patch that includes a backing support such as paper, cloth or plastic and a water-based hydrogel layer applied to the backing. The hydrogel layer comprises a hydrophilic natural or synthetic polymer to provide body dispersed in water and can be a tacky adhesive. The polymer can comprise any high molecular weight hydrophilic carbohydrate such as karaya, cornstarch, or a kelp gel and/or a synthetic hydrophilic polymer such as polyacrylamide or polyacrylic acid. A humectant such as a polyhydric alcohol, keeps the gel layer moist. A solute such as salt, protein, sugar or an alcohol is dissolved in the water in a quantity sufficient to raise the osmotic pressure enough to maintain the hydrogel layer in a hypertonic state with respect to the blister.

Abstract: The present patent describes a three-dimensional inter-connected open cell porous foams that have a gradient in composition and/or microstructure through one or more directions. These foams can be made from a blend of absorbable and biocompatible polymers that are formed into foams having a compositional gradient transitioning from predominately one polymeric material to predominately a second polymeric material. These gradient foams are particularly well suited to tissue engineering applications and can be designed to mimic tissue transition or interface zones.

Abstract: A method for treating wounds including contacting a wound with an effective wound healing amount of bioactive glass and topical antibiotic and composition for the accelerated healing of wounds and burns including particulates of bioactive glass and at least one topical antibiotic.

Abstract: A class of water insoluble iodophors comprising complexes of iodine with various nylons such as nylon-4,6, nylon-6, nylon-6,6 or other polyamides is disclosed. These nylons complexed with iodine can be made in various forms such as powders, pellets, molded objects, granules, films, monofilaments, and either non-woven or woven fabrics. These nylon based iodophors and other water insoluble iodophors herein disclosed can find product applications in the fields of air treatment, water treatment, public hygiene and medicine.

Abstract: Improved polymeric devices are disclosed which slowly and gradually release drugs or other chemicals, for use as wound dressings that gradually release antibiotics, analgesics, or other useful drugs directly onto the surfaces of wounds. These polymers also provide other sustained-release devices, such as capsules that will gradually release a drug the entire time they remain in the digestive system, until the inert polymer is excreted in feces. These devices are created by reacting: (1) a hydrophilic polymer such as poly(2-hydroxy-ethyl-methacrylate); (2) a solvent such as polyethylene glycol; (3) a plasticizing agent that promotes hydrogen bonding, such as dimethylsulfoxide in a quantity which is substantially reduced compared to prior formulations; and (4) the drug or chemical that is to be slowly released by the final device. The quantity of DMSO has been reduced from about 5%, in previously-known polymer systems, to about 0.1% in these improved devices.

Abstract: The invention relates to a transdermal system containing at least one angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor.

Abstract: A dermal patch is provided which includes a substrate formed of a hydrophobic and hydrophilic fiber mixture, and a hydrogel adhesive deposited onto the substrate. The adhesive contains an alpha or beta hydroxy acid. The patch is applied to skin for treating the signs of aging, especially around areas of the eye.

Abstract: A drug delivery device includes (a) a substantially moisture vapor permeable, liquid impermeable, flexible thermoplastic backing layer, (b) a moisture vapor permeable, flexible, oleophilic thermoplastic resin foam layer, (c) a pressure sensitive adhesive layer, and (d) a drug reservoir containing at least one hydrophilic drug composition and possessing a moisture vapor permeable, but hydrophilic drug composition impermeable, barrier layer applied to one surface thereof with the drug reservoir being applied to a portion of the adhesive layer such that the barrier layer lies between the hydrophilic drug composition and the adhesive layer thereby preventing any significant migration of the drug composition from the drug reservoir into the adhesive layer.