Comparative efficacy and safety results of topical hemostatic powder and sterile compressed foam sponge in second intention healing following Mohs micrographic surgery.

This study compared the safety and efficacy of a non-prescription topical hemostatic powder (THP) containing a hydrophilic polymer and a potassium-based salt (group 1) to a sterile, compressed surgical sponge (group 2) for second intention healing (SIH) in 24 subjects following Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) for the removal of non-melanoma skin cancers of the head and neck with a final defect size of 0.5 mm-2.0 cm. At least 50% of the subjects were receiving ongoing anti-coagulants. Hemostasis, rate of healing, wound size, global assessments of healing and application-site reactions were assessed. Time to hemostasis was measured at the time of surgery. Group 1 achieved hemostasis at a median of 52.5 seconds after the first stage of MMS versus 60 seconds in group 2. By week 12, wound size was reduced by a median of 182 mm2 in group 1 and 161.5 mm2 in group 2. A case series of subjects treated with THP following 4-mm punch biopsies is also discussed.