Intraoperative topically-applied non-implantable rapid release patch

A device for rapid delivery of a therapeutic agent to a surgical cavity, the device comprising:

• a porous, mucoadhesive, freeze-dried polymeric matrix having first and second opposed surfaces, the matrix formed by a composition comprising chitosan, and a particle adhesion inhibitor, comprising hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC);
• a plurality of particles, having an average diameter between 500 nm and 2000 nm, embedded within the matrix so as to be directly surrounded by, and in contact with, the matrix, the particles containing the therapeutic agent and having a coating around the therapeutic agent, the coating comprising chitosan so as to provide controlled release of the therapeutic agent from the particles through the first opposed surface of the matrix;
• and
• one or more additives selected from the group consisting of a hydration promoter, a particle aggregation inhibitor, and combinations thereof,
• wherein:
• the first surface of the matrix is configured to be applied to the surgical cavity;
• the device is configured to provide release of the particles through the first surface;
• the device is sterilized;
• the device provides release of approximately 20% to 100% of the therapeutic agent within 20 minutes of application to the surgical cavity, and
• the particle adhesion inhibitor, and, when present, the hydration promoter, and the particle aggregation inhibitor are compounds mutually distinct from one another and present in amounts sufficient to achieve the controlled release of the particles without preventing formation of the freeze-dried matrix.