Chitosan arrests bleeding in major hepatic injuries with clotting dysfunction: an in vivo experimental study in a model of hepatic injury in the presence of moderate systemic heparinisation. Milner et al

Millner R, Lockhart AS, Marr R. 

Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2010; 92(7):559-561

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of two chitosan formulations, Omni-Stat® granules and Celox Gauze®, in a model of major hepatic injury in the presence of clotting dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Major hepatic injuries in moderately heparinised swine were treated with either Omni-Stat® granules or Celox Gauze® as compared to control plain gauze.

RESULTS

Plain gauze control failed to stop the bleeding in 13 of 14 attempts. Omni-Stat® arrested the bleeding in 18 of 18 attempts, providing it was in contact with the bleeding surface. Celox Gauze® arrested bleeding in 5 out of 6 attempts initially, and with further pressure in the sixth.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the evidence that chitosan-derived products act independently of classical clotting pathways and should be effective in patients who suffer major liver injury even in the presence of clotting dysfunctions.

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