| Engineering of effective and biocompatible hemostatic materials to control massive bleeding is one of the
interesting research fields. Herein, cellulose-based polymer modified by silica aerogel and calcium chloride was
used for suitable control of bleeding. Novel developed superabsorbent (NDS) was synthesized by chemical and
physical cross-linking methods. NDS not only quickly absorbs a high amount of blood component (60 g/g), but it
can also adhere strongly (~90 KPa) to damaged tissue. The contributions of the freeze-drying method and
presence of silica aerogel as structural modifiers led to the creation of a superabsorbent with a porosity percentage
of 70% which creates a significant ability to absorb blood cells. NDS negative surface charge and
presence of silica nanoparticles and calcium ions accelerate activation of the coagulation cascade process. Superior
hemostatic ability of NDS compared to commercial hemostatic powder (Gelita-Cel® and Traumastem®)
was proved by complementary tests such as blood absorption content, RBC attachment, blood clotting index
(BCI), platelet adhesion, clotting time test and partial thromboplastin time (PTT). In vivo study results
demonstrate that the NDS could successfully decrease bleeding time and blood loss amount in Wistar rat’s cut-out
femoral artery, 2.25 and 4.3 fold better than Gelita-Cel® and 2.13 and 4.4 fold better than Traumastem®. NDS
biodegradability was proved by its implantation inside the Wistar rat’s body during 14 days. Biochemical, hematological,
and pathological tests did not show inflammation and toxic effects in the liver and renal tissues, skin
tissues, and alteration in complete blood count parameters (CBC) in NDS treated Wistar rats. In conclusion, the
cellulose-based NDS hemostatic biomaterial is suggested for future clinical trial studies due to its powerful ability
in bleeding control. |