The hemostatic effect of calcium alginate in experimental splenic injury model.

INTRODUCTION: We evaluated the effect of calcium alginate as a hemostatic agent in

splenic injury model.
MATERIAL AND METHOD: Experimental rats were divided into four groups. Group I:

Laparotomy was not performed. Only blood samples for bleeding time and hemogram was

taken. Group II: After laparotomy, the abdomen was closed without any splenic injury.

Group III: After laparotomy, splenic injury about 0.5 cm in depth and 0.3 cm in lenght was

created by standart Rochester pean forceps. Gauze dressing with serum physiologic about 2x2

cm in size was applied to the injured splenic tissue for 3 minutes Group IV: After laparotomy,

standart splenic injury about 0.5 cm in lenght and 0.3 cm in depth was also created in this

group. Calcium alginate wound dressing 1x1 cm in size was applied to the splenic

wound.Peroperative blood loss, pre and postoperative hemoglobulin and hematocrit values were calculated.

RESULTS: When comparing decline in hematorit values and peroperative bleeding amount

in between Group III and Group IV, Group IV has lower decline in hematocrit values and

peroperative bleeding amount (Table II,III). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, Calcium alginate has hemostatic capacity. It may be used in

splenic injuries specially for Grade I and II.