Hemostatic potential of natural/synthetic polymer based hydrogels crosslinked by gamma radiation

Various raw materials and hydrogels prepared from their combination were assessed for hemostatic capability using swine whole blood clotting analysis. Initial screening showed efficient coagulative properties from κ-carrageenan and its carboxymethylated form, and α-chitosan, even compared to commercial products like QuikClot Zeolite Powder. Blending natural and synthetic polymers formed into hydrogels using gamma radiation produced materials with improved properties. KC and CMKC hydrogels were found to have the lowest blood clotting index in granulated form and had the higher capacity for platelet adhesion in foamed form compared to GelFoam. Possible mechanisms involved in the evident thrombogenicity of the materials include adsorption of platelets and related proteins that aid in platelet activation (primary hemostasis), absorption of water to concentrate protein factors that control the coagulation cascade, contact activation by its negatively charged surface and the formation of gel-blood clots. •Various polymers and prepared hydrogels were assessed for hemostatic capability.•Efficient hemostatic activity shown by κ-carrageenan (KC) and its derivatve (CMKC).•Granules formed from KC and CMKC hydrogels has the lowest blood clotting index.•Foam made from CMKC has higher capacity for platelet adhesion than GelFoam.•Material biocompatibility and in vitro results indicate potential as hemostat.