The Food and Drug Administration has approved an injectable sponge that the manufacturer claims can stop bleeding in seconds.
Last Thursday, the FDA cleared the ‘XSTAT 30’ wound dressing for use by the general population. It had previously been used only on the battlefield.
The sponge expands, and can be used to control life-threatening wounds in areas where a tourniquet cannot be used, like the groin or the armpit. The sponges can be used for up to four hours, allowing time for an injured person to receive medical care.
Between 30-40 percent of deaths caused by trauma injuries actually result from internal bleeding, often before a patient can reach the hospital.
Instructional Links
Website Article: U. S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA clears military traumatic wound dressing for use in the civilian population
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm475810.htm
Website Article: Kids' Health, First Aid Bleeding
http://www.cyh.com/HealthTopics/HealthTopicDetailsKids.aspx?p=335&np=285&id=1565