Enhancing Surgical Care: Development of Biocompatible, Superabsorbent Alternatives to Cotton Gauze Using Chia Mucilage and Poly(vinylpyrrolidone)

Cotton gauze bandages have traditionally played a pivotal role in wound care and surgical procedures, absorbing fluids, including blood, and protecting against infection. However, their limited liquid absorption capacity raises concern about potential post-surgery complications if inadvertently retained. In response, resorbable and biocompatible polymers have emerged as a promising alternative to enhance surgical outcomes and mitigate inflammation. This study aims to develop a biocompatible, highly absorbent, and preferably resorbable substitute for cotton gauze, utilizing natural polysaccharides from chia seeds’ mucilage alongside the synthetic polymer poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP). Incorporating tranexamic acid, an antifibrinolytic agent, into the PVP solution enhances its efficacy in controlling blood flow. The polymer solution is then processed into nonwoven materials via solution blow spinning. UV–C radiation cross-linking is employed to bolster the nonwovens’ performance and durability during liquid absorption and swelling. Results demonstrate that nonwoven samples comprising PVP and chia mucilage, cross-linked for 60 min with UV–C radiation, exhibit exceptional swelling capacity, absorbing approximately 3291% of their dry weight in saline solution. Microfiber analysis indicates alterations in fiber characteristics due to cross-linking duration. Cell viability tests affirm the biocompatibility of the produced materials. With their remarkable fluid absorption properties and potential for resorption, PVP/chia mucilage compositions supplemented with tranexamic acid offer a promising avenue for effectively managing surgical bleeding without adverse effects. Furthermore, these materials can safely remain within the surgical site, eventually undergoing natural resorption by the body owing to their resorbable nature.