Bactericidal Hemostatic Sponge: A Point of Care Solution to Combat Traumatic Injury

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Traumatic injuries present significant risks due to uncontrolled bleeding and microbial contamination.
• Effective point-of-care hemostatic solutions are crucial for managing hemorrhage and preventing infection.
• Developing materials with combined hemostatic and anti-infective properties remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an injectable, bactericidal hemostatic sponge for treating traumatic wounds.
• To create a dual crosslinked material with enhanced fluid absorption and wound sealing capabilities.
• To evaluate the hemostatic, antibacterial, and biocompatible properties of the novel sponge.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a cationic dextran-mesoporous silica nanoparticle-based sponge (BACSTAT) using dual crosslinking (photo polymerization and nanoparticle interactions).
• Assessment of fluid absorption, shape recovery, and wound sealing capabilities.
• In vivo evaluation of hemostasis in mice models (femoral vein incision, liver puncture).
• Testing of broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Evaluation of biocompatibility with mammalian cells and mice skin.

Main Results:

• The BACSTAT sponge demonstrated superior fluid absorption and rapid shape recovery for effective wound sealing.
• Significant hemostatic efficacy was observed in mice models, promoting rapid blood clotting.
• The sponge exhibited potent broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and reduced bacterial burden by over 99% in vivo.
• Complete biocompatibility with mammalian cells and mice skin was confirmed.
• Reduced inflammatory responses were noted in infected tissues.

Conclusions:

• The developed BACSTAT sponge is a highly effective hemostatic and bactericidal material.
• Its unique properties make it suitable for immediate application at the point of care.
• BACSTAT holds significant potential as a therapeutic solution for traumatic injuries in both military and civilian settings.