Carboxymethyl cellulose and chitosan-based tampon for effective epistaxis management

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Epistaxis (nosebleeds) poses a significant public health challenge.
• Conventional nasal packing methods can cause discomfort and complications like mucosal trauma.
• There is a need for improved, biocompatible nasal packing materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), chitosan (CS), and citric acid (CA) as green crosslinkers for novel nasal packing.
• To compare the efficacy of CA-crosslinked CS-CMC2 sponges against traditional cotton gauze and commercial hemostatic sponges for epistaxis management.
• To optimize formulation parameters for enhanced hemostasis, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties.

Main Methods:

• Development of freeze-dried sponges using CA-crosslinked CS and CMC.
• Assessment of morphological, hydrophilic, and mechanical properties of the CS-CMC2 sponge.
• In vitro hemocompatibility testing and evaluation of blood clotting capacity.
• Antibacterial efficacy testing against Staphylococcus aureus.
• Comparison with cotton gauze and commercial hemostatic sponges.

Main Results:

• The CS-CMC2 sponge demonstrated excellent morphological, hydrophilic, and mechanical characteristics.
• In vitro hemocompatibility was confirmed, indicating safety for blood contact.
• CS-CMC2 exhibited enhanced blood clotting capacity and adhesion to blood cells due to CS content.
• Potent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus was observed, attributed to CS.
• The material showed balanced swelling and mechanical properties suitable for nasal hemostasis.

Conclusions:

• CA-crosslinked CS-CMC2 sponges represent a promising, biocompatible alternative for epistaxis management.
• The material effectively promotes hemostasis and nasal mucosal repair.
• Its hemostatic and antibacterial properties offer advantages over conventional nasal packing.