Hemostatic shape memory polymer foams with improved survival in a lethal traumatic hemorrhage model

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Trauma Care
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Uncontrolled hemorrhage remains the leading cause of preventable death, particularly on the battlefield.
• Existing hemostatic dressings like QuikClot® Combat Gauze (QCCG) and XStat® show limitations in reducing mortality.
• There is a critical need for advanced hemostatic agents effective in non-compressible wound scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of novel shape memory polymer (SMP) foams as a hemostatic agent.
• To compare the performance of SMP foams against current standards (XStat and QCCG) in a porcine liver injury model.
• To investigate the material properties of SMP foams contributing to hemostatic effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A lethal, non-compressible porcine liver injury model was established.
• Wounds were treated with SMP foams, XStat, or QCCG.
• Efficacy was assessed by measuring time to bleeding cessation, total blood loss, and animal survival over 6 hours.

Main Results:

• SMP foams significantly reduced blood loss and active bleeding time compared to XStat and QCCG.
• The 6-hour survival rate was increased by 50% (vs. XStat) and 37% (vs. QCCG) with SMP foams.
• SMP foams demonstrated significant increases in animal survival times.

Conclusions:

• SMP foams show significant promise for improving hemorrhage control in severe, non-compressible wounds.
• The low stiffness and shape-filling capabilities of SMP foams are key to their enhanced performance.
• Material properties are crucial design considerations for effective hemostatic devices.