Punctum and canalicular anatomy for hydrogel-based intracanalicular insert technology.

Despite advances in cataract surgery, postoperative ocular inflammation and pain occurs. To address compliance issues with topical corticosteroid administration, a hydrogel-based dexamethasone insert was developed for intracanalicular administration. The objective is to understand the anatomy to best administer the insert and learn how the anatomy and hydrogel properties help retain the insert in the canaliculus over time.

Novel high-strength thromboresistant poly(vinyl alcohol)-based hydrogel for vascular access applications.

Adherence of proteins, cells, and microorganisms to the surface of biomaterials used for vascular access contribute to device failure by thrombosis, occlusions, and infections. Current technologies for inhibiting these complications are limited to coatings and additives that are limited in duration of efficacy and often induce adverse side effects. In this work, we developed a novel composite hydrogel structure comprising of a porous poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) that is impregnated with poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and heat treated to create a physically cross-linked high-strength hydrogel material.