LOCAL DELIVERY OF FIBRINOLYSIS ENHANCING AGENTS

摘要

A method of preventing adhesions by topical administration of fibrinolysis e nhancing agents is described. The method uses a topicall y applied polymeric matrix for delivery of a fibrinolytic agent, preferably ur okinase, tPA, hirudin, or most preferably, ancrod. In th e most preferred embodiment, the matrix is extremely thin and is polymerized in sut i to form a biodegradable polymeric matrix. The matrix provides controlled release of the agent over a period of time effective to prevent surgical adhesions and is biodegradable, usually within the same time frame. Examples demonstrate that the combination of the matrix and the urokinase, tPA, birudin, or ancrod is effective in preventing surgical adhesions.