Modified Chitosan-Based Hemostatic Dressings Incorporating Heparin-Loaded Nanoparticles for Enhanced Hemostatic...

Background/Objectives: Achieving effective hemostasis is a vital step in wound healing, particularly in cases of severe bleeding caused by surgical procedures or trauma. This study focuses on the development of chitosan-based dressings enriched with Heparin (hep)-loaded poly(butylene succinate) (PBSu) nanoparticles to combine hemostatic and anticoagulant properties. Methods: Chitosan, a biocompatible and biodegradable carbohydrate with inherent antibacterial and hemostatic properties, was chemically modified with 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES) and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) to enhance its swelling ability and hemostatic activity. PBSu nanoparticles were synthesized using an oil-in-water emulsification method and loaded with Hep to achieve controlled anticoagulant release. The dressings of the modified chitosan derivatives with the nanoparticles which were systematically characterized for morphology, chemical structure, swelling ability, loading capacity, and Hep release kinetics. Results: This dual-function system is designed to decouple local surface hemostasis from thrombotic processes: the chitosan matrix provides rapid topical hemostasis, while controlled heparin release from the nanoparticles aims to modulate excessive fibrin deposition, support microvascular perfusion, and exploit the pro-healing benefits of low-dose heparin reported in advanced wound dressings, particularly in high-risk or thrombotic-prone patients. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated their potential for promoting rapid hemostasis. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the integration of modified chitosan and Hep-loaded nanoparticles is a promising strategy for advancing wound care and hemostatic technologies.