A Novel Shape Memory Polymer (SMP) Foam for Hemorrhage Control
Abstract
Although there are many hemostatic agents available for use on the battlefield, uncontrolled hemorrhage is still the primary cause of preventable death. Current hemostatic dressings include QuikClot Combat Gauze (QCCG) and XStat, which have inadequate success in reducing mortality. To address this need, a new hemostatic material was developed using shape memory polymer (SMP) foams, which demonstrate biocompatibility, rapid clotting, and shape recovery to fill the wound site. SMP foam hemostatic efficacy was examined in a lethal, noncompressible porcine liver injury model over 6 hours following injury. Wounds were packed with SMP foams, XStat, or QCCG and compared in terms of time to bleeding cessation, total blood loss, and animal survival. The hemostatic material properties and in vitro blood interactions were also characterized. SMP foams decreased blood loss and active bleeding time in comparison with XStat and QCCG. Most importantly, SMP foams increased the 6-hour survival rate by 50% and 37% (vs. XStat and QCCG, respectively) with significant increases in survival times. In parallel studies, modifications were made to the foams to make them degradable, which would allow for hemostatic materials to remain in place during healing, and antimicrobial to reduce infection risks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 15, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1165407
Entities
People
- Mary B. Monroe
- Steven G Schauer
Organizations
- 59th Medical Wing
- Syracuse University