Use of PerClot(®) in head and neck surgery: a Scottish centre experience

OBJECTIVE: PerClot(®) is a biocompatible, polysaccharide haemostatic system recommended for surgical procedures. It is an absorbable modified polymer that is non-pyrogenic and is derived from purified plant starch. Our goal was to evaluate the safety, efficacy and usefulness of PerClot(®) in head and neck surgery (H&N) in our department. METHODS: All patients who received PerClot(®) after their neck operation over 1-year period (2019–2020) were prospectively investigated. The information collected included demographics, admission and discharge dates, type of operation, operative details, postoperative complications and their management. The data were collected and analysed using Excel. RESULTS: A total of 57 patients (males = 26, females = 31) with mean age of 51 (range 19–83) were identified. None of the patients developed primary or secondary haemorrhage. Ten patients suffered from post-operative wound complications (18%). Wound infection was noticed in 9/57 (16%) of patients. 1/57 patients had seroma. CONCLUSIONS: PerClot(®) is safe, effective in reducing the postoperative bleeding and would appear to be useful in head and neck surgery with minimal adverse effects.