Bismuth subgallate as a topical hemostatic agent at palatal donor sites.

OBJECTIVE

To present bismuth subgallate as a simplified and efficient method for promoting hemostasis at palatal donor sites, as evaluated by measuring hemostasis time and delayed bleeding.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

Ten patients received the bismuth subgallate paste as a topical hemostatic agent, while another 10 patients received moistened gauze pressure. The time to obtain complete hemostasis, defined as no visual bleeding, was recorded for each subject.

RESULTS

Bismuth subgallate paste was found to decrease hemostasis time, when compared with moistened gauze pressure. The mean hemostasis time for the bismuth subgallate group was significantly shorter (2.6 +/- 0.7 minutes) when compared to the moistened gauze group (7.2 +/- 1.4 minutes). While delayed bleeding was observed in the moistened gauze group, no statistically significant difference was found between the groups (P = .10).

CONCLUSION

The use of bismuth subgallate as a topical hemostatic for palatal wounds may be an option when performing free soft tissue grafts.