Use of a plant-based polysaccharide hemostat for the treatment of sternal bleeding after median sternotomy.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

In cardiac surgery profuse or persistent sternal bleeding after sternotomy is routinely controlled with bone wax. However, bone wax should be avoided, especially in high-risk patients for nonunion of the sternum and infections. Purpose of this study was to evaluate an alternative technique to control bleeding after medium sternotomy using a plant based absorbable polysaccharide hemostat.

METHODS:

A consecutive series of 38 patients requiring median sternotomy for coronary artery bypass surgery (21 OPCAB, 17 CABG) had sternal bleeding control with the polysaccharide hemostat, STARSIL® HEMOSTAT. This hemostat is a hydrophilic powder, which achieves hemostasis after topical application at the surgical wound site. Initially it dehydrates blood rapidly, thus accelerating aggregation of platelets and blood solids. Thereafter, it forms a gelled adhesive matrix, which serves as a mechanical barrier against further bleeding. The polysaccharide is completely resorbed within 48 to 72 hours.

RESULTS:

Satisfactory control of sternal bleeding was observed in 37 patients (97%). No product-related complications were observed or any other major adverse events in an observation period of 3 months.

CONCLUSION:

Polysaccharide hemostats appear to be safe and effective for bleeding control of the sternum.

• Authors: Christoph Schmitz, Ralf Sodian
• Journal: Journal of cardiothoracic surgery (J Cardiothorac Surg) Vol. 10 Pg. 59 (Apr 24 2015) ISSN: 1749-8090 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 25902769 (Publication Type: Clinical Study, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Hemostatics
• Phytochemicals
• Polysaccharides

Topics

• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Coronary Artery Bypass (methods)
• Female
• Hemorrhage (drug therapy)
• Hemostasis, Surgical (methods)
• Hemostatics (therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Phytochemicals (therapeutic use)
• Polysaccharides (therapeutic use)
• Sternotomy (methods)
• Sternum (surgery)
• Treatment Outcome