Hemostatic agents in various surgical settings

Abstract

Hemostatic methods can be separated into four groups, mechanical, thermal, chemical and biological. Applying direct pressure to the site of bleeding is the most basic and cost-effective choice to achieve hemostasis, either manually or by using pressure dressings. The other mechanical methods include using mechanical products like ligatures, staples, and clips, which are cost-effective and helpful in many scenarios. Hemostatic agents belong to the biological methods of hemostasis. These hemostatic agents can be categorized into 3 groups called hemostats, sealants, and adhesives, the basic materials used in their production are fibrin, gelatin, oxidized cellulose, and collagen. This thesis focuses on the different types of topical hemostatic agents used in everyday surgical procedures, mainly as adjuvant hemostatic methods.