Comparison of two topical collagen-based hemostatic sponges during cardiothoracic procedures

The need for topical hemostasis during cardiothoracic procedures continues to fuel the development of additional hemostatic products with a focus on minimizing cost and increasing efficacy. The efficacy of a recently approved collagen-based topical hemostatic agent (Hemostagene, Coletica, S.A., Lyon, France) was tested in a prospective randomized trial of 60 consecutive patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgical procedures. Comparisons to a control collagen sponge (Helistat, Integra Life Sciences, Inc., Plainsboro, NJ) were made and hemostasis was considered successful if bleeding was controlled in 10 min or less. We employed a unique hemorrhage grading scale to more closely assess the relative effectiveness of these different topical agents. Overall, Hemostagene and Helistat achieved a successful hemostasis rate of 75% and 77%, respectively, with no statistically significant difference. The Hemostagene sponge was deemed easier to handle when compared to control. During the study, neither of the products was associated with complications attributable to the topical sponge. In conclusion, Hemostagene had improved handling characteristics yet was equal to Helistat at topical hemostasis, adding an alternative to the topical hemostatic market.