Provided are crosslinked polymer compositions that include a first synthetic
polymer containing multiple nucleophilic groups covalently bound to a second synthetic
polymer containing multiple electrophilic groups. The first synthetic polymer is
preferably a synthetic polypeptide or a polyethylene glycol that has been modified
to contain multiple nucleophilic groups, such as primary amino (-NH2)
or thiol (-SH) groups. The second synthetic polymer may be a hydrophilic or hydrophobic
synthetic polymer, which contains or has been derivatized to contain, two or more
electrophilic groups, such as succinimidyl groups. The compositions may further
include other components, such as naturally occurring polysaccharides or proteins
(such as glycosaminoglycans or collagen) and/or biologically active agents. Also
disclosed are methods for using the crosslinked polymer compositions to effect
adhesion between a first surface and a second surface; to effect tissue augmentation;
to prevent the formation of surgical adhesions; and to coat a surface of a synthetic implant.
