Oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC)

Oxidized regenerated cellulose is an absorbable biomaterial derived from plant cellulose, chemically modified by oxidation and regeneration to form a device used in surgery as a local hemostatic agent[4][6][8]. Upon application to bleeding tissues, it acts as a physical barrier and facilitates clot formation by providing a surface for platelet adhesion and fibrin deposition; it absorbs blood, swells into a gelatinous mass, and promotes rapid local hemostasis[4][5][6]. The acidic nature may further trigger vasoconstriction and contribute to hemostasis[6][8]. ORC is widely used in various surgical fields wherever control of capillary, venous, or small arterial bleeding is needed, and it is gradually absorbed by the body over several weeks[4][5]. It is not a protein, receptor, or molecular target but a physical surgical adjunct. Numerous commercial variants exist, including Surgicel, Tabotamp, Oxycel, Pahacel, CuraCel, Equicel, and Equitamp[6][8]. Safety concerns include possible confusion with abscesses on imaging and rare localized adverse tissue reactions[5][8].

Other names

Oxidized celluloseAbsorbable hemostatic agentBrand names: Surgicel, Oxycel, Pahacel, CuraCel, Tabotamp, Equicel, EquitampHemostatic barriersurgical hemostat

Physical matrix for clot formation: ORC provides a substrate for platelets, forming a gelatinous mass upon blood contact. Activates platelet aggregation and supports fibrin clot formation. Acidic pH may promote vasoconstriction and localized coagulation effects.