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 (--NH.sub.2) 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.