A comparison between 2 absorbable hemostatic agents: gelatin sponge (Spongostan) and oxidized regenerated cellulose (Surgicel).

Oxidized, regenerated cellulose (Surgicel) and gelatin sponge (Spongostan) were packed in the sockets of upper third molars after surgical removal in 10 and 11 patients, respectively. The other side in each patient functioned as control. The study revealed that more pain was apparent on the sides, where the materials were packed, especially in the gelatin sponge group, although more patients preferred this material to oxidized, regenerated cellulose. The 2 materials did not differ with regard to swelling or bleeding. No complications were encountered. Use of these materials in post-extraction sockets did not seem to impair closure of the wound as estimated by epithelial cover of the sockets, although healing was slightly delayed in the gelatin group.