Ultra-Hydrophobic Gauze Driving Super-Haemostasis.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Materials Engineering
• Hemostasis Research

Background:

• Traditional cotton gauze is a facile prehospital emergency treatment for bleeding.
• However, cotton's wettability causes excessive blood absorption, adhesion-related pain, and infection risk.
• Developing advanced wound dressings is crucial for improving emergency care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an ultra-hydrophobic, hemostatic, and anti-adhesive gauze for prehospital emergencies.
• To investigate the mechanism of enhanced hemostasis and reduced adhesion.
• To compare the performance of the novel gauze against commercial cotton gauze.

Main Methods:

• Surface modification of gauze with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and hydrophobic cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs).
• Characterization of surface hydrophobicity using water contact angle measurements (≈160°).
• Evaluation of hemostatic efficacy, anti-adhesive properties, and antimicrobial adhesion in vitro and in vivo comparisons.

Main Results:

• The developed gauze exhibits ultra-hydrophobicity, effectively reducing blood loss by over 90%.
• Hemostasis time was shortened by more than 75%, and peeling force reduced by over 90%.
• Bacterial attachment was decreased by more than 95%, demonstrating significant anti-adhesive and antimicrobial properties.

Conclusions:

• The PDMS and CNC-modified ultra-hydrophobic gauze offers superior hemostatic and anti-adhesive performance compared to conventional cotton gauze.
• This advanced material presents a promising solution for improving prehospital first aid and emergency wound management.
• The findings highlight the potential of engineered biomaterials in addressing critical medical needs.