A novel haemostatic agent based on self-assembling peptides in the setting of nasal endoscopic surgery, a case series

INTRODUCTION: Recently, a novel purely synthetic topical haemostatic agent (PuraStat(®)) has been proposed in surgery based on the self-assembling tendency of some repeating peptide sequences. This transparent, ready to use hydrogel appears suitable for use in FEES with low rates of post-operative re-bleeding and adhesion formation. A first series of 60 patients experiencing endonasal powered turbinoplasty across various hospitals in Sydney using PuraStat(®) was observed for postoperative re-bleeding and adhesion formation. DISCUSSION: In all 60 patients, no post-operative re-bleeding was observed, while healing went well in absence of adhesion formation. Effective haemostasis with PuraStat(®) is well documented in other surgical fields, but its use in FEES and adhesion prevention is relatively novel. CONCLUSION: Synthetic self-assembling peptides appear to be indicated in this area. Further studies are needed to confirm their potential for adhesion prevention.