SELECTIVELY POLYMERIZABLE COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE IN VIVO

摘要

Otologic materials and methods are provided. For example, a cell-adhesive, biodegradable hydrogel scaffold loaded with time-released drugs for repairing chronic tympanic membrane perforations is disclosed, methods of making same and administering same are provided. This hydrogel may promote vascular in-growth and epithelial cell growth of the tympanic membrane with the purpose of closing the perforation and providing a barrier between the external and middle ear. The hydrogel is initially a liquid polymer that only gels upon exposure to specific conditions, such as exposure to light. This scaffold may simultaneously induce repair of the tympanic membrane while preventing or alleviating middle ear infection, thus filling a void in current tympanic membrane perforation therapies.

主权项

1. A liquid pre-polymer composition for otologic use, comprising: at least a first polymer and a solvent, which when activated in situ in the ear of a patient results in the liquid pre-polymer composition assembling into a polymer matrix suitable for repairing or aiding the repair of a tympanic membrane perforation.