Since mid-World War II, nearly 50 percent of combat deaths have been due to exsanguinating hemorrhage , or bleeding out. Half of those deaths could have been prevented if timely, appropriate care had been available, according to the U.S. Army

Using the syringe-like applicator, compressed cellulose sponges with an absorbent coating can be applied directly into the wound. When they come in contact with blood, they rapidly expand and pack the wound cavity in about 20 seconds, placing enough pressure to stop blood flow while the patient is being transported. All the sponges have markers on them that can be detected using an X-ray for removal later.

Up to three applicators may be used to stabilize the patient, each containing 92 pill-shaped sponges that are 9.8 millimeters in diameter and up to 5 millimeters in height. Each medical sponge absorb 3 milliliters of blood or other bodily fluid -- that’s almost a third of a liter per applicator.