Active and mechanical hemostatic agents.

Mechanical and active topical sealant and hemostatic agents are now available in several different forms. These agents have utility in a variety of settings as adjuncts to the control of surgical bleeding. As an example, they have been very important in improving the treatment of one of the most difficult of cardiovascular procedures, repair of acute aortic dissection. Research and development continues on potential new products. Improvements in the efficacy of these products as well as delivery systems and product safety will make these agents even better and more widely accepted.