Investigation of efficiency of a novel, zinc oxide loaded TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofiber based hemostat for topical bleeding

Lethal bleeding due to street accidents, natural calamities, orthopedic/dental surgeries, organ transplantation and household injuries, is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. In the current study, zinc oxide (ZnO) was incorporated in TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofiber (TOCN) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer system for hemorrhage control by freeze drying method. SEM and XRD data showed the presence of ZnO in the porous structure. FT-IR analysis showed that, successful conjugation occurs among the TOCN and PEG. The results revealed that, the incorporation of ZnO and higher concentrations of PEG increased the degradability but decreased swelling of the scaffolds. The increase in PEG content and ZnO incorporation significantly decreased the bleeding time in rabbit ear arterial bleeding model. Further, the incorporation of ZnO enhanced the antibacterial property of TOCN-PEG. The results suggested that excellent hemostatic and mechanical properties of the TOCN-5% PEG-ZnO might contribute in controlling bleeding and reducing post traumatic dermal bacterial infection.