Fibrillar Absorbable Hemostat: Advanced Bleeding Control for Surgical Precision Bleeding control during surgery is both a science and an art—and among the many tools available to surgeons, the Fibrillar Absorbable Hemostat stands out as a highly effective, flexible, and reliable solution. Specifically engineered to conform to complex anatomical surfaces and delicate tissues, this form of hemostatic agent offers excellent adaptability and rapid hemostasis in both open and minimally invasive procedures. Widely used in cardiovascular, neurological, and general surgery, fibrillar absorbable hemostats are indispensable for modern surgical practice—where precision, safety, and speed are non-negotiable.
What Is a Fibrillar Absorbable Hemostat? A Fibrillar Absorbable Hemostat is a soft, fibrous, and pliable surgical hemostatic material made primarily from oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC). It is designed to conform easily to irregular bleeding surfaces, making it ideal for controlling capillary, venous, and small arterial bleeding. Unlike standard gauze, this material dissolves naturally in the body over time and does not require removal, reducing the risk of infection or tissue disruption.
Key Characteristics Feature
Description
Material
Oxidized Regenerated Cellulose (ORC)
Structure
Soft, fibrous, and fluff-like texture
Absorbable
Fully absorbed by the body within 1–2 weeks
Sterile and Ready-to-Use
No preparation needed
Conforms to Wound Surfaces
Ideal for hard-to-reach or irregular surgical sites
Bactericidal Properties
Low pH helps inhibit bacterial growth
Mechanism of Action 1. Clot Acceleration: ORC acts as a surface for platelet adhesion, enhancing the body's natural clotting process. 2. pH-Driven Hemostasis: The acidic environment (pH ~3.0) promotes vasoconstriction and stabilizes clots. 3. Physical Barrier: Forms a gel-like matrix upon contact with blood, sealing bleeding surfaces. 4. Biodegradability: The material is absorbed via hydrolysis, with no need for removal or second intervention.
Key Benefits
✅ Excellent Conformability ● Easily torn or folded to match surgical needs ● Conforms tightly to bleeding tissue—perfect for uneven or delicate surfaces
✅ Fast and Effective Hemostasis ● Typically controls bleeding within 2–5 minutes ● Effective against oozing from raw surfaces like liver, spleen, or muscle
✅ Completely Absorbable ● Absorbs fully within 7–14 days, depending on tissue type and size of application
✅ Bactericidal Properties ● Natural acidic environment is unfavorable to bacterial growth
✅ Versatile Use ● Suitable for use in a wide range of open and laparoscopic procedures
Common Surgical Applications Surgical Field
Use Case Example
Cardiovascular
Control of diffuse oozing around bypass grafts or vessel anastomoses
Neurosurgery
Hemostasis on dura mater or brain surface with minimal pressure
Orthopedic
Bone surface bleeding after joint replacement or trauma surgery
Hepatobiliary
Raw surface bleeding from liver or spleen
ENT and Maxillofacial
Post-resection or sinus surgery bleeding
Gynecology
Post-excision hemostasis or myomectomy
How to Use 1. Open sterile package 2. Tear or cut to desired size 3. Apply directly to bleeding site 4. Apply gentle pressure until hemostasis occurs 5. Leave in place—it will be absorbed naturally
Note: Avoid overpacking into confined spaces where swelling may cause compression of surrounding tissues.
Safety & Compatibility
Factor
Response
Sterility
Supplied sterile and single-use
Reactions
Rare; material is biocompatible
Anticoagulated Patients
Can be used; effective even when clotting is impaired
MRI Compatibility
Safe—contains no metal
Bacterial Resistance
Acidic pH helps prevent infection
Limitations and Precautions ● Do not use in closed spaces (e.g., spinal canal, bone cavities) if swelling may compress nerves or vessels ● Not for large arterial bleeding ● Should not be used as a surface dressing—intended for internal surgical use ● Avoid using with oxidizing agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide), which may degrade the material prematurely
Popular Products & Brands Brand/Manufactur er
Product Name
Notes
Ethicon (J&J)
SURGICEL® Fibrillar
Industry-leading; available in multiple sizes
Gelita Medical
GelitaCel® Fibrillar
Soft, fast-hemostasis cellulose gauze
Baxter
Hemopatch®
Though patch-type, some variants offer similar fibrillar qualities
Cura Medical
Curacel® Fibrillar
CE-marked; high absorption rate
Available Sizes Typical sizes include: ● 2.5 cm x 5 cm ● 5 cm x 7.5 cm ● 7.5 cm x 10 cm ● 10 cm x 20 cm
Can be cut or torn to fit specific applications.
Storage and Shelf Life ● Shelf Life: 2–3 years (check manufacturer label) ● Storage Conditions: Store in original packaging in a cool, dry place
● Sterility: Do not use if package is damaged or opened
Regulatory Status Most fibrillar absorbable hemostats are: ● CE marked (Europe) ● FDA approved (USA) as Class III medical devices ● Must meet ISO 10993 biocompatibility standards
Always refer to local regulations and hospital formularies for approved brands and usage.
Comparison with Other Absorbable Hemostats Feature
Fibrillar Hemostat
Powder Hemostat
Gelatin Sponge
Collagen Pad
Texture
Soft, fibrous
Loose particles
Spongy
Dense sheet
Conformability
Excellent
Moderate
Low
Moderate
Absorbability
7–14 days
2–5 days
4–6 weeks
4–6 weeks
✅ Yes
❌ No
❌ No
Ideal for Irregular Surfaces
❍ Sometimes
Bactericidal Properties
✅ Yes (ORC) ❌ No
❌ No
❍ Possibly
Conclusion The Fibrillar Absorbable Hemostat is a powerful, reliable, and easy-to-use tool for modern bleeding control in the surgical setting. Its unique fibrous structure, rapid hemostatic action, and full absorbability make it particularly well-suited for complex procedures involving delicate tissues and irregular wound geometries. Whether you're managing minor bleeding in a laparoscopic procedure or controlling diffuse oozing in trauma surgery, this hemostat offers the performance, flexibility, and safety demanded by today’s healthcare professionals.
