The Haemostatic Effects of Ankaferd Blood Stopper® on Mammalian Brain Parenchyma: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Aim: Haemostasis is a vital stage for the success of the surgery. Although Ankaferd Blood Stopper (ABS), a low-cost and reliable agent, is used in many surgeries, it is not yet available for use in the intracranial area. This study aims to reveal ABS’s cytotoxic effects and safety profile in mammalian brain parenchyma. Material and Methods: 30 Wistar Albino rats were divided into three groups consisting of 10 rats. Haemostasis was achieved with saline in group 1, 50% diluted ABS in group 2, and 100% ABS in group 3 in bleeding caused by damage to the brain parenchyma. Urotensin, Antithrombin III (AT3) and fibrinogen were studied in blood samples taken before surgery and during sacrification. In addition, the histologic examination was performed after the sacrification of rats and injury scores were assessed. Results: Fibrinogen levels in groups 2 and 3 were significantly higher than group 1 in blood samples taken before surgery. There was a significant increase in urotensin during sacrification compared to the pre-surgical period in all three groups. (p=0.005) Slight injury in group 2, mild injury in group 3, and severe injury in group 1 were statistically significantly higher. (p=0.005) These results indicate that the use of 50% diluted ABS is safe. Conclusion: ABS, used for the first time in the mammalian brain parenchyma, was evaluated as safe in rats. Compared to haemostatic matrix agents, in addition to safety and efficacy, its low cost might increase its clinical use in the future.