Surgicel dressing is a type of absorbable hemostatic agent used to control bleeding in surgical procedures. It is a porous, absorbable matrix made from oxidized cellulose, which is derived from plant fibers. The unique properties of Surgicel dressing make it an effective tool for managing bleeding in a variety of surgical settings, from general surgery to neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery.
The history of Surgicel dressing dates back to the 1940s, when it was first developed as a response to the need for a reliable and effective hemostatic agent. Since then, it has undergone numerous refinements and improvements, resulting in the product we know today. With its proven track record of safety and efficacy, Surgicel dressing has become a staple in many operating rooms around the world.
Key Points
- Surgicel dressing is an absorbable hemostatic agent used to control bleeding in surgical procedures
- It is made from oxidized cellulose, a porous and absorbable matrix derived from plant fibers
- Surgicel dressing has a long history of safe and effective use in a variety of surgical settings
- It is available in a range of sizes and shapes to accommodate different surgical needs
- Surgicel dressing is biocompatible and non-toxic, reducing the risk of adverse reactions
How Surgicel Dressing Works

Surgicel dressing works by promoting blood clotting and reducing bleeding through a combination of physical and chemical mechanisms. When applied to a bleeding site, the dressing absorbs blood and fluids, swelling to form a gel-like matrix that helps to tamponade the bleeding vessels. At the same time, the oxidized cellulose in the dressing reacts with blood to form a stable clot, which helps to seal the bleeding site and prevent further blood loss.
Benefits of Surgicel Dressing
The benefits of Surgicel dressing are numerous, making it a popular choice among surgeons and healthcare professionals. Some of the key advantages of using Surgicel dressing include its ease of use, flexibility, and adaptability to different surgical situations. It is also biocompatible and non-toxic, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and complications. Additionally, Surgicel dressing is absorbable, eliminating the need for removal and reducing the risk of infection.
Property | Description |
---|---|
Absorbency | Highly absorbent, capable of absorbing up to 10 times its weight in blood and fluids |
Biocompatibility | Non-toxic and biocompatible, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and complications |
Flexibility | Available in a range of sizes and shapes to accommodate different surgical needs |
Absorbability | Absorbable, eliminating the need for removal and reducing the risk of infection |

Clinical Applications of Surgicel Dressing

Surgicel dressing has a wide range of clinical applications, making it a versatile tool in the surgical arsenal. It is commonly used in general surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and cardiothoracic surgery, among others. Some of the specific applications of Surgicel dressing include controlling bleeding during surgical procedures, promoting hemostasis in traumatic injuries, and managing bleeding in patients with coagulopathies.
Technical Specifications
Surgicel dressing is available in a range of sizes and shapes to accommodate different surgical needs. It is typically supplied in sterile packaging and is intended for single use only. The dressing is made from oxidized cellulose, which is derived from plant fibers, and is biocompatible and non-toxic.
What is Surgicel dressing used for?
+Surgicel dressing is used to control bleeding and promote hemostasis in surgical procedures. It is a porous, absorbable matrix made from oxidized cellulose that absorbs blood and fluids, swelling to form a gel-like matrix that helps to tamponade the bleeding vessels.
Is Surgicel dressing biocompatible?
+Yes, Surgicel dressing is biocompatible and non-toxic, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and complications. It is made from oxidized cellulose, which is derived from plant fibers, and is designed to be absorbable and gentle on tissues.
Can Surgicel dressing be used in patients with coagulopathies?
+Yes, Surgicel dressing can be used in patients with coagulopathies. Its unique properties make it an effective tool for managing bleeding in patients with bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia or von Willebrand disease.
In conclusion, Surgicel dressing is a highly effective and versatile tool for controlling bleeding and promoting hemostasis in surgical procedures. Its unique properties, biocompatibility, and absorbability make it an invaluable asset in the surgical arsenal, and its wide range of clinical applications make it a staple in many operating rooms around the world.