Microporous Polysaccharide Hemospheres Epistaxis

Use of Microporous Polysaccharide Hemospheres (MPH) in Management of Acute Epistaxis

The purpose of this study is to compare a new treatment for nosebleeds to the treatment that has been used for many years.

Nosebleeds are a common condition which affect many Americans every day.The standard treatment in this hospital for nosebleeds that do not resolve with squeezing the nose or nasal spray is to place a nasal packing (aka nasal tampon) into the nose. This is an effective treatment in most cases, but patients may find it to be uncomfortable. The investigators will be comparing the standard nasal packing with a new type of powder which may also stop nosebleeds.

Inclusion Criteria:

• acute epistaxis who have failed conservative measures (including application of pressure and application of oxymetazoline spray) and for which the Otolaryngology service has been consulted
• must be alert and oriented
• hemodynamically stable with a hemoglobin greater than 9 g/dL
• cooperative

Exclusion Criteria:

• unable to consent or cooperate
• history of hereditary hemorrhagic telengectasias
• hemophilia
• clotting factor deficiencies
• history of prior surgery for epistaxis control
• nasal trauma
• recent sinonasal surgery
• hemodynamic instability
• posterior bleed (as determined by Ear, Nose, Throat physician)
• visibly bleeding vessel
• allergy to product
• current diabetic ketoacidosis