Zwitterionic Powder-Based Gradient Adhesion-Lubrication Hydrogels for Efficient Hemostasis and Antiadhesion

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Hemostasis and Thrombosis
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Uncontrolled hemorrhage from complex wounds is a major medical challenge.
• Existing hemostatic agents have limitations in conformability, adhesion, and robustness.
• There is a need for advanced biomaterials with integrated hemostatic and anti-adhesive properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer a novel powder-based hydrogel (CS-PSBMA@OHA) for effective hemostasis.
• To evaluate the hemostatic performance of the hydrogel in preclinical models.
• To assess the anti-adhesive properties of the hydrogel to prevent postoperative adhesions.

Main Methods:

• Development of a zwitterionic poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate)-grafted chitosan (CS-PSBMA) and oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA) powder.
• Induction of rapid liquid-triggered gelation to form a dual-network hydrogel upon contact with moist tissue.
• Evaluation of hemostatic efficacy in rat liver laceration and femoral artery transection models.
• Assessment of anti-adhesive properties in a rat intestinal adhesion model.

Main Results:

• The CS-PSBMA@OHA powder rapidly formed a stable dual-network hydrogel with strong, sustained adhesion.
• The hydrogel demonstrated superior hemostasis, significantly reducing blood loss and hemostasis time compared to controls.
• The asymmetric adhesive interface of the hydrogel effectively mitigated postoperative adhesions in a preclinical model.

Conclusions:

• The self-gelling powder-based hydrogel platform (CS-PSBMA@OHA) offers a promising solution for uncontrolled hemorrhage.
• This novel biomaterial integrates rapid hemostasis with effective anti-adhesive properties.
• The findings suggest potential clinical advantages for trauma and surgical applications.