Development of a hemostatic wound dressing incorporating lyophilized platelets

Blood loss due to uncontrolled hemorrhage is a major contribution to at least 90% of the combat death before reaching the field hospital. The ability to control heavy bleeding in the injured soldier is critical and will vastly improve the survival outcome in the theater. Furthermore, complications from uncontrolled bleeding in the microvasculature contribute significantly to increased morbidity. Finally, disruption of the vasculature during trauma can limit healing and soft tissue repair and regenerative phases once bleeding has subsided. Our goal is to address these critical aspects of combat casualty care, providing first echelon care that will have significant impact on acute events as well as improved outcome late into the time course of treatment and recovery. Our approach to developing next generation hemostatic products for combat casualty care is to exploit the natural properties of platelets which contain both hemostatic and healing properties.