Experience Using Kaolin-Impregnated Sponge to Minimize Perioperative Bleeding in Norwood Operation

A kaolin-impregnated hemostatic sponge (QuikClot) is reported to reduce intraoperative blood loss in trauma and noncardiac surgery. The purpose of this study was to assess if this sponge was effective for hemostasis during Norwood operation.

We conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing Norwood operation in infancy between 2011 and 2016 at our institution.

Of 31 identified Norwood operations, a kaolin-impregnated sponge was used intraoperatively in 15 (48%) patients. The preoperative profiles and cardiopulmonary bypass status were similar between the operations with or without kaolin-impregnated sponge. The comparison on each operative outcome between operations with or without kaolin-impregnated sponge showed that the intraoperative platelets, cryoprecipitate, and factor VII dosage were significantly less in the operations with kaolin-impregnated sponge (55 mL, 10 mL, 0 µg/kg vs 72 mL, 15 mL, 45 µg/kg; P = .03, .021, .019), as well as the incidence of perioperative bleeding complications (second cardiopulmonary bypass for hemostasis or postoperative mediastinal exploration, 0% vs 31%, P = .043). A logistic regression model showed that the nonuse of kaolin-impregnated sponge and longer aortic cross clamp time were associated with perioperative bleeding complication in univariable model ( P = .02 and .005).

Use of kaolin-impregnated hemostatic sponge was associated with reduced blood product use and perioperative bleeding complications in Norwood operation at a single institution.