the present invention provides new classes of phenol compounds , including those derived from tyrosol and analogues , useful as monomers for preparation of biocompatible polymers , and biocompatible polymers prepared from these monomeric phenol compounds , including novel biodegradable and / or bioresorbable polymers . these biocompatible polymers or polymer compositions with enhanced bioresorbabilty and processibility are useful in a variety of medical applications , such as in medical devices and controlled - release therapeutic formulations . the invention also provides methods for preparing these monomeric phenol compounds and biocompatible polymers .