Merocel: Characteristics, Composition, Presentation, Mechanism of Action, Indications and Warnings

This product allows the surgeon unmatched fluid absorption and a lint-free surgical field.

Merocel results from a production process, from a series of chemical reactions, of a synthetic mesh of interlaced polyvinyl alcohol, which has open cells.

It is used in compression practices in cases of bleeding nose, in surgical procedures, and for the treatment of external otitis.

Merocel products are widely used by surgeons since they are sponges free of fibers or lint and are designed to replace cotton, cellulose, and other fiber materials.

Merocel hemostatic tampons are made from a large, soft pore sponge with oxycellulose.

This contributes to maximizing fluid absorption, reducing pain, and the frequency of repeated bleeding after removing the tampon.

The Merocel sponge is evenly impregnated with micro-dispersed oxycellulose, so the surface of the tampon is evenly moistened and glides on easily, making it easy to remove without damaging the surrounding tissue.

 

Studies have shown excellent fluid absorption and easier removal of the tampon, a decrease in the frequency of recurrent bleeding, and high efficacy of oxycellulose in nosebleeds.

Characteristics of the model sponge

This material is compressed and very similar to a sponge, and whose production process has the following unique characteristics in its manufacturing methods:

  • The model sponge manufacturing process uses purified air for pore formation rather than adding chemicals like starch or sulfate.
  • These starch or sulfate residues require chemical solutions to wash the finished product, which do not ensure that they can be removed entirely.
  • These chemical pore-forming chemicals are usually pollutants for many product applications.
  • 100% open pores.

The 100% open pore structure of the merocel sponge material guarantees a residue-free material.

Other materials have micro-pockets in which there may be starch or sulfate residues.

  • Specific microstructure.
  • In an enlarged image of the microstructure of the model products, it can be seen that the merocel sponges are formed by a continuous mesh of an interconnected and porous material, which does not allow the detachment of particles.
  • Gamma-ray irradiation.

The manufacturing process of merocel is subjected to gamma-ray irradiation to destroy the spores of fungi and microorganisms capable of causing contamination in the final product.

Composition

  • Polyvinyl hydrophilic acetate.
  • Latex-free.

Presentation

Merocel is presented for sale in a set of triangle-shaped absorbent sponge lancets attached to a malleable handle for optical surgeries.

The Merocel Nasal Sponge is available in various shapes and sizes.

Nasal tampons are available with or without a cord and with or without a breathing tube.

These dressings come in standard sterile packaging.

Mechanism of action

Merocel contains micro dispersed oxycellulose, which is a good absorbent material.

By absorbing the fluid, the tampon reduces the swelling of the surrounding tissues, gently squeezes them, reduces bleeding, and absorbs blood and fluids.

Indications of the merocel sponge

  • The anatomic nasal dressing is ideal for use after septoplasty, rhinoplasty, turbinectomy, and other intranasal procedures.
  • Removes clots and debris during extraction, leaving a clean, open cavity.
  • Merocel nasal packing is an effective first-line treatment in patients with epistaxis.
  • Ideal for the treatment of otitis of the external ear.
  • It is used in the ear canal to apply otic solutions and local anesthesia.
  • Recommended for laser-assisted tympanic membrane fenestration procedures.
  • Excellent to be used in ophthalmic surgeries.

Advantages of the merocel sponge

  • Expands to fill the nasal cavity, providing smooth and even support.
  • It is a sponge with open and interconnected cells, which give the material strength, absorption, and softness.
  • It has unmatched fluid control. Its hydrophilic fabric has 7 to 9 times its weight absorption capacity.
  • Compressed to promote easy insertion.
  • It removes easily and is non-stick for atraumatic removal.
  • Expands to fit when hydrated with solutions.
  • Safe and biocompatible material.
  • Merocel sponges are designed to provide the surgeon with superior fiber-free products for unparalleled fluid control and safe cleaning of fine microsurgical instruments.
  • Prevents nosebleeds.
  • It prevents fibers from shedding during surgery, avoiding infections.

Procedure for nasal packing

A helpful first step in inserting a model foam nasal pack is coating it with an antibiotic ointment.

To avoid the pain of removing an anterior tamponade due to adhesions that occur with coagulated blood and mucus, it is wrapped in a sterile glove, passing silk through the glove and the model from which the tamponade is subsequently removed.

To enter the nasal cavity, everything is impregnated with rhinobadenif nasal ointment.

And later, once the model is introduced into the nasal cavity with a syringe with saline serum, it is infiltrated inside the glove finger so that the model expands and performs its plugging function.

For non-traumatic bloodless collection, the swab should be moistened; 10 ml of saline or water is sufficient.

After softening, the tampon can be gently removed with tweezers.

Using the correct insertion technique is very important, but it is easy to learn and perform. The actual insertion takes just a couple of seconds.

Product warnings

Care must be taken not to damage the merocel sponge, and the integrity of the sponge must be checked before use.

It is strictly forbidden to reinsert after use as it is a disposable product.

Contact with alcohol and the organic solution is strictly prohibited.