In surgical procedures, what is the primary purpose of hemostatic agents like Gelfoam?

The primary purpose of hemostatic agents like Gelfoam is to control bleeding. These agents are designed to promote clot formation and stop or minimize blood loss during surgical procedures. Gelfoam, specifically, is made of a gelatin material that absorbs blood and helps facilitate the coagulation process, providing a physical barrier that aids in the formation of a stable clot. Controlling bleeding is critical in surgery to maintain patient stability and prevent complications related to excessive blood loss, such as shock.

While hemostatic agents can have secondary benefits, such as supporting tissue healing over time as they are absorbed, their main function is to directly address and control hemorrhage during an operation. Other agents may play roles in infection prevention or assisting with suture techniques, but these are not the primary aims of hemostatic products.