An Efficient Biosafe Bioresorbable Hemostatic Nonwoven Gauze From Protonated Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Currently bioresorbable oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) gauze faces significant challenges in terms of harsh manufacture conditions and high cost. To address these issues, we prepared a novel cellulose-based bioresorbable gauze composed of protonated carboxymethyl cellulose (HCMCel) via wet-spinning and acidification processes. The core strategy is to leverage the facile conversion of water-soluble sodium carboxymethyl cellulose into insoluble protonated carboxymethyl cellulose. By regulating the acidification, HCMCel with gradient carboxyl contents was fabricated. It is revealed that the carboxyl group on the gauze can synergize hemostasis through physical fluid absorption and chemical coagulation promotion. The HCMCel demonstrates hemostatic performance comparable to the commercial ORC-based gauze Surgicel in both in vitro and in vivo models, while also exhibiting good biocompatibility and bioresorbability. This research not only provides a convenient methodology and technique for developing bioresorbable hemostatic gauze that integrate high efficacy, biodegradation, and biosafety but also offers a viable pathway to overcome the high-cost and high-risk associated with the traditional ORC gauze production process.