Objectives:
To compare the effectiveness of several hemostatic agents and to evaluate a new hemostatic agent (ReClot) in controlling splenic hemorrhage.
Design:
Rabbits were anesthetized and catheters placed. A celiotomy was performed and a splenic injury produced; hemostatic agent and compression were applied.
Experimental Groups:
In group 1 (n=8), the splenic laceration was compressed with a dry sponge and 75 g of pressure until hemorrhage ceased. In groups 2,3, and 4 (n=10 each), splenic injury was treated with Avitene, Collastat, and ReClot, respectively. Hemostatic agent was applied to the splenic laceration and a dry sponge and pressure were applied as described for group 1. In group 5 (n=9), a splenic laceration was produced, ReClot applied, and aggressive fluid resuscitation was initiated; the volume of crystalloid was adjusted to maintain mean arterial pressure.
Results:
Application of a hemostatic agent reduced total blood loss compared with that measured in the control group, but there was no difference in blood loss among experimental groups treated with a hemostatic agent. The time required to achieve control of blood loss was less in the ReClot-treated group compared with the Avitene- and Collastat-treated groups.
Conclusions:
The hemostatic agent ReClot had a significant advantage over other hemostatic agents for the time required to achieve control of splenic bleeding. Aggressive fluid resuscitation did not limit the ability of ReClot to produce hemostasis.(Arch Surg. 1995;130:161-164)