A model for testing topical haemostatic dressings for peripheral extremity haemorrhage following amputation

Abstract

AimsTo assess the viability of a peripheral extremity amputation and haemorrhage model for testing topical haemostatic dressings, and secondarily to test whether a topical haemostatic dressing would arrest bleeding and maintain haemostasis without a tourniquet in this model.MethodsAn animal model was used during proof of principle model development. Bilateral through-elbow amputations were performed on a single swine under anaesthetic and treated with application of Celox Rapid topical haemostatic dressing (Celox gauze) to the stump after 30 seconds of free bleeding. Following initial haemostasis, the wound sites were bandaged using standard trauma dressings. Vital signs were monitored throughout the study.ResultsThe animal survived and, in both amputations, haemorrhage was successfully controlled. There was no evidence of re-bleeding during the 30 minutes post-injury or following removal of the packed Celox gauze from the wound sites.ConclusionTopical haemostatic dressings could be considered alongside tourniquets for use as a primary treatment of peripheral extremity haemorrhage due to traumatic amputation. It may be useful in prolonged field care where evacuation is delayed or where tourniquet alone does not provide adequate haemorrhage control.