Microporous Biodegradable Polymeric Sponge for Surgical Haemostasis and Wound Healing

Abstract

Purpose: Conventional Hemostats used to control bleeding during surgeries are not biodegradable and cause hemorrhage while removal. To address this challenge, we have developed absorbable surgical hemostat which will be biodegradable, haemostatic and will also help in wound healing. Methods: Biodegradable sponges were prepared by freeze drying 5% porcine gelatin solution, using formaldehyde as crosslinking agent. Internal structure of developed sponges was characterized in-vitro by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and was further tested for its water absorption capacity as well as biodegradation. Preclinical evaluation was performed for skin irritation, haemostasis, wound healing and biodegradation in-vivo. Results: Optimized freeze drying process resulted in microporous, absorbable gelatin sponges which were biodegradable in-vitro in pepsin solution. The SEM images revealed that crosslinked Gelatin sponges were uniform and microporous. Excision and Incision wound model of rats showed enhanced haemostasis as well as wound healing without causing hemorrhage and exhibited complete biodegradation within 3-4 weeks on implantation without showing any irritation or toxicity. Conclusion: Porcine gelatin could be formulated as microporous, absorbable gelatin sponge which will act as biodegradable surgical hemostat and it can also be helpful in wound healing.