In what may be a timely move, the FDA has issued clearance to RevMedX to introduce its XStat Rapid Hemostasis System for treating gunshot wounds in the civilian population. Last year the device received FDA clearance to be used on the battlefield, but now ambulances in the U.S. will have the option of carrying XStats as well.

The device contains a bunch of tablet-sized sponges that are injected, similar to using a typical syringe, deep into the wound. The tablets absorb blood and rapidly expand to fill the cavity that they find themselves in. The patient is then transported to a trauma ward where the sponges are removed and treatment can continue.

Each sponge contains a radiopaque marker that can be seen under X-ray imaging, making it easier to make sure all the sponges are cleared of the body.

The new indication for the XStat allows its use on both adult and adolescents suffering from acute ballistic lead poisoning.

Flashbacks: RevMedX Gunshot Hemostasis System and Tourniquet Belt at TEDMED 2014 (VIDEO)…; XStat Rapid Hemostasis System for Gunshot Wounds Works in 15 Seconds…; Xstat Gunshot Wound System Approved by FDA for Use on Battlefield…;

Product page: XStat…

Source: FDA…