Adhesive Hemostatic Flake Particulates Composed of Calcium Alginate–Starch–Polyacrylamide/Poly(Acrylic Acid) Ionic Networks

Hemostatic particles have specific advantages when applied to narrow and complicated bleeding sites with convenient usage compared to other types of hemostatic agents such as fabrics, foams, and pastes. However, powdery hemostatic agents are easy to desorb from the bleeding surface due to blood flow, which causes a serious decrease in hemostasis function. Here, we introduce bioresorbable flake particulates composed of calcium alginate, starch and polyacrylamide/poly(acrylic acid) ionic networks as a wound adhesive hemostatic agent. The microstructure, chemical characteristics and blood infiltration of the flake hemostatic agent were analyzed. In vitro blood absorption, coagulation ability, adhesion force, cytotoxicity and in vivo bioresorption with biological safety were investigated. The tissue adhesive force of the hemostatic flakes showed a consistently higher value (-0.67 ± 0.06 N axial force) than Arista^TM AH powder. The in vivo rat hepatic hemorrhage model analysis demonstrated a significantly improved hemostasis rate in the flake group (36 ± 5 s) by wound adhesion and quick blood absorption. This adhesive flake particulate hemostatic is expected to provide an advanced option for medical treatments.