The FDA just approved new technology that allows a syringe to inject sponges into open bullet wounds.
The revolutionary XStat Rapid Hemostasis System, commonly referred to as a “bullet wound tampon,” has the potential to save countless lives.
Originally the technology was meant for soldiers in battle, but it’s thought that it will now be used by the general public. If an individual is shot, while waiting for emergency services the syringe can be inserted into the wound and a small amount of expanding sponges will be released into the hole. This will then fill up the wound and stop bleeding.
According to Dr. William Maisel, the acting director of the Office of Device Evaluation in the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health:
When a product is developed for use in the battlefield, it is generally intended to work in a worst case scenario where advanced care might not be immediately available. It is exciting to see this technology transition to help civilian first responders control some severe, life threatening bleeding while on the trauma scene.
It’s not made clear how painful the entire procedure is, but by my estimations? Very. You’re talking about inserting a syringe into a gaping bullet wound hole. Then you’re inserting expanding sponges into the wound. The process of removing them once in the emergency room is another situation altogether. It would probably be worse than getting stitches removed. Which is a pain.
Anyway if it’s saving a life the pain endured will be worth it.
Here’s a video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XVlco2KjUU
Featured Image Via Twitter
