Development and assessment of hemostasis chitosan dressings

The aim of this study was to prepare and evaluate chitosan dressings treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and/or sodium tripolyphosphate (Na5P3O10) for haemostatic use. The pure sodium hydroxide-gelled chitosan dressing (CS-B) had water contents (about 95%) and porosities (about 85%) which were similar to those of commercially available chitosan-based products. The CS-B dressing also exhibited homogeneously sized and penetrating pores throughout, whereas the commercially available Clo-Sur PAD showed porous lamellar structures inside and Instant Clot Pad exhibited a heterogeneous pore size distribution. Additionally, the CS-B dressing was flexible and resilient, free of odour and able to recover completely after compression in a hydrated state. Finally, the CS-B sponge absorbed blood quickly, accelerating blood clotting, enhancing red blood cell adhesion and maintaining its original shape after haemostatic testing.