22 June 2024 | Roberta Cassano, Paolo Perri, Edoardo Scarcello, Paolo Piro, Roberta Sole, Federica Curcio and Sonia Trombino
The article reviews the properties and surgical applications of chitosan-based hemostatic dressings. Chitosan, a natural polysaccharide derived from chitin, is highlighted for its ability to induce hemostasis and its high biocompatibility with biological tissues. The review discusses the structural characteristics, properties, and application of chitosan-based hemostatic dressings in pre- and post-surgical hemostatic processes. Key aspects include the cationic charge of chitosan, which facilitates the aggregation of red blood cells and platelets, and the physical and chemical mechanisms that contribute to hemostasis. The article also covers the commercial availability of chitosan-based dressings, such as HemCon, Celox, Axiostat, TraumaStat, and ChitoSeal, detailing their mechanisms of action and clinical uses. Additionally, the surgical applications of these dressings are explored, emphasizing their effectiveness in reducing bleeding, complications, and hospital stays. The review concludes by discussing the future perspectives of chitosan-based hemostatic materials, including the potential for nanotechnology to enhance their performance.The article reviews the properties and surgical applications of chitosan-based hemostatic dressings. Chitosan, a natural polysaccharide derived from chitin, is highlighted for its ability to induce hemostasis and its high biocompatibility with biological tissues. The review discusses the structural characteristics, properties, and application of chitosan-based hemostatic dressings in pre- and post-surgical hemostatic processes. Key aspects include the cationic charge of chitosan, which facilitates the aggregation of red blood cells and platelets, and the physical and chemical mechanisms that contribute to hemostasis. The article also covers the commercial availability of chitosan-based dressings, such as HemCon, Celox, Axiostat, TraumaStat, and ChitoSeal, detailing their mechanisms of action and clinical uses. Additionally, the surgical applications of these dressings are explored, emphasizing their effectiveness in reducing bleeding, complications, and hospital stays. The review concludes by discussing the future perspectives of chitosan-based hemostatic materials, including the potential for nanotechnology to enhance their performance.