Biological bioadhesive compositions and methods of preparation and use

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to the preparation and use of biological tissue adhesives which rely on combining fibrinogen and thrombin. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method of preparing a fibrin sealant whereby said sealant is formed by reconstituting the fibrinogen or the thrombin component in the presence of biological and/or non-biological agents such as drugs, chemicals, and proteins. Preferably, these agents are introduced in solution, such as for example, a corticosteroid-containing solution like a betamethasone solution containing betamethasone acetate or betamethasone sodium phosphate; a triamicinolone solution; or a methylprednisolone solution. These solutions may be substituted for, or provided as a complement to, other solutions that are typically used in the preparation of fibrin sealants such as, for example, calcium chloride. The invention further relates to a novel method of using the improved fibrin sealant whereby the sealant and accompanying agent(s) are delivered directly to a critical site within the body and sealed in place due to the bio-static quality of the sealant. This provides therapeutic value to patients through prolonged presence, and optionally time-released delivery, of the specific agent(s) at the critical site.