Bubble Evolution-Guided Interconnected Hierarchical Macroporous Sponges for Non-Compressible Hemostasis in...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Uncontrolled non-compressible hemorrhage presents significant treatment challenges.
• Existing hemostatic materials often have limitations in porosity, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an injectable, self-expanding hemostatic sponge (IHMS) with enhanced properties.
• To evaluate the hemostatic efficacy and biocompatibility of IHMS in preclinical models.

Main Methods:

• A vacuum-assisted foaming strategy was used to create a macroporous sponge with interconnected pores.
• A double-network matrix was incorporated to enhance mechanical stability and fatigue resistance.
• IHMS performance was assessed in various bleeding models, including liver perforation, femoral artery transection, and lethal porcine hemorrhage.

Main Results:

• The optimized IHMS demonstrated excellent mechanical robustness, retaining significant stress and strain after repeated compression.
• IHMS outperformed commercial hemostats in fluid absorption, blood retention, clot formation, and sealing capabilities.
• Preclinical studies showed superior hemostatic efficacy in rat and porcine models, even under anticoagulation, and easy removal after hemostasis.

Conclusions:

• The developed IHMS offers a high-performance hemostatic solution for life-threatening hemorrhage.
• Its design overcomes limitations of current materials, showing potential for clinical application in trauma management.
• IHMS exhibits antibacterial activity, biocompatibility, and promotes tissue repair, advancing expandable hemostat technology.