The Effects of QuikClot Combat Gauze, Fluid Resuscitation, and Movement on Hemorrhage Control in a Porcine Model

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of QuikClot Combat Gauze (QCG) compared to a control group on hemorrhage control; the amount of crystalloid volume infusion on rebleeding; the effect of movement on hemorrhage. This was a prospective, experimental design. Swine were randomly assigned to either the QCG () or the control group (). Investigators transected the femoral artery and vein in each swine. After one minute of uncontrolled hemorrhage, the hemostatic agent, QCG, was placed into the wound followed by standard wound packing. The control group underwent the same procedures but without a hemostatic agent. After five minutes of direct pressure, a standard pressure dressing was applied. After 30 minutes, dressings were removed, and the wound was observed for rebleeding for 5 minutes. If hemostasis occurred, 5 liters of crystalloid was given over 5 minutes, and the wound was observed for rebleeding for 5 additional minutes. If no bleeding occurred, the extremity on the side of the injury was moved. There were significant differences in the amount of hemorrhage (), the amount of fluid administration (), and the number of movements () between the QCG and control.