absorbable hemostatic agent known as Gelatin sponge

Gelatin Sponges in Veterinary Surgery: The Ultimate Hemostatic Shield

absorbable hemostatic agent known as Gelatin sponge

Veterinary surgery, a highly intricate field, demands innovative solutions to safeguard the well-being of our animal companions. Hemorrhage poses a significant challenge in surgical procedures, whether in the realm of human medicine or veterinary care. Haemostatic sponges, comprising cellulose derivatives (like Surgicel, Ethicon), collagen (Avitene, Davol), or gelatin (Spongostan by Ferrosan or Gelfoam from Pfizer), have played pivotal roles in addressing this concern.

An example of such innovation is the absorbable hemostatic agent known as Gelatin sponge, which has revolutionized the field of veterinary surgery. Gelatin sponge excels in achieving hemostasis, effectively controlling blood flow. This is particularly vital in veterinary surgeries, where patients cannot express their discomfort, emphasizing the utmost importance of precision and safety. Notably, the Gelatin sponge’s dual nature-being both absorbable and non-adherent-makes it a standout choice. Once it stops the bleeding, it gracefully dissolves within the body, sparing the need for follow-up surgery. This significant advantage substantially reduces post-operative complications and facilitates a quicker and smoother recovery for the animal patient.

In 2011, Charlesworth and colleagues unveiled a case series describing the use of absorbable gelatin sponges as hemostatic implants in clinical veterinary surgeries involving 50 cases of dogs and cats. In 49 out of the 50 cases, successful hemostasis was achieved, and no postoperative complications associated with its use were observed.

In this realm, Aegis Lifesciences has introduced HAEMOVET® as an absorbable haemostatic agent, which transformed the landscape of veterinary care by providing effective, quick & easy hemostasis for general veterinary surgical procedures. These hemostats are recommended for situations where conventional methods of controlling bleeding prove ineffective.

Key benefits of HAEMOVET®

  • Minimizes blood loss
  • Provides clear surgical field
  • Saves time and increases surgical speed
  • Enhances recovery time
  • Absorbs within < 4 weeks
  • Can be easily cut to the desired shape and size
  • Absorbs 45 times its weight in blood

In summary, these innovations in veterinary hemostasis underscore the commitment of medical professionals to advancing the well-being of our animal companions. With the Gelatin sponge and HAEMOVET®, veterinary surgery has witnessed transformative progress, ensuring safer procedures, faster recoveries, and ultimately better lives for our animal patients.

Intraoperative photograph of a Gelatin sponge being applied (dry) to a left liver lobe resection site.
Fig: Intraoperative photograph of a Gelatin sponge being applied (dry) to a left liver lobe resection site.

Source:
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2011.01162.x

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