Physiologically compatible adhesive composition

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The polymeric composition of the present invention is prepared by curing or solidification of a non-aqueous liquid precursor resulting in the formation of an adhesive material.
Depending on the particular material involved, such solidification may involve a chemical reaction such as a cross-linking reaction, or may involve a physical change such as evaporation of the solvent.
A hydrophilic filler, such as a cellulosic or natural gum, is incorporated into the non-aqueous liquid prior to solidification.
A particularly preferred composition is prepared by the reaction of an organic polyisocyanate with one or more di- or greater than di- polyfunctional hydroxyl compounds, for example polyoxyalkylene polyols such as those derived from propylene or ethylene or ethylene oxide, preferably having equivalent weights of at least 500.
A monofunctional fatty alcohol may also be incorporated into the reaction mixture in order to provide internal plasticization to increase the accessibility of the fillers to fluids by opening the structure slightly but not so much as to adversely affect the elastomeric properties of the resultant polyurethane matrix composition.
Other adhesive materials which may be used according to the present invention include silicone adhesives, acrylic adhesives, polyvinyl ether adhesives, and adhesives based on styrene copolymers.
The soft polymeric matrix or adhesive composition that is formed by the reaction physically encapsulates the uniformly dispersed hydrophilic filler within the three-dimensional matrix of the resulting self-sustaining adhesive composition.
Thus, the product resists dissolution by or passage of bodily fluids while being inherently breathable and hydratable thereby readily allowing migration and transfer of gases such as water vapor.
The composition is thus highly suitable both for contact with unbroken skin and with wounds, and is especially suitable for surrounding the stoma as an ostomy pad or gasket.
A sealing pad or gasket formed of the composition of this invention is interposed between the face plate of the ostomy device and the skin of the user surrounding the stoma