13-05-2025
From An IISc Student Project To The Frontlines: How FIBROPLUG Stops Bleeding, Saves Lives
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The silk-chitosan composite haemostat boasts a unique bio-composite formulation that swiftly clots blood while simultaneously forming a protective barrier over the wound
What began as an IISc student's industrial project in a modest Bengaluru laboratory has now become a critical lifeline for Indian defence forces. FIBROPLUG, an ingenious haemostatic dressing developed through a dynamic collaboration between the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and city-based start-up Fibroheal Woundcare Pvt Ltd, is providing rapid and effective bleeding control in urgent battlefield scenarios along the nation's borders.
This patented technology, a silk-chitosan composite haemostat, boasts a unique bio-composite formulation that swiftly clots blood while simultaneously forming a protective barrier over the wound. This dual action makes FIBROPLUG an indispensable tool for military healthcare professionals operating in challenging, high-pressure environments where every second counts.
A significant advantage of FIBROPLUG lies in its innovative design. Unlike traditional chitosan-based bandages that often adhere to the skin, causing potential re-bleeding upon removal, FIBROPLUG incorporates a layer of silk. This smooth interface prevents adhesion, allowing for easy and atraumatic removal without disrupting the healing process.
The journey from concept to deployment began when Fibroheal approached IISc with a critical need in the homeostasis market. A student project in 2018-19, under the Prime Minister's Research Fellows (PMRF) scheme, laid the groundwork for FIBROPLUG. The product's patent is jointly held by IISc and Fibroheal, highlighting the success of this academic-industry partnership.
Following rigorous testing and regulatory approvals, full-scale manufacturing commenced in late 2024. Today, FIBROPLUG is being utilised by Indian defence forces across 30 units, including field hospitals.
'The incorporation of a silk layer to the chitosan base was key," explained professor Kaushik Chatterjee of IISc to CNN-News18. 'While chitosan is excellent for inducing blood clotting, its stickiness can cause issues. The silk layer ensures effective clotting without the risk of re-bleeding upon removal."
Vivek Mishra, CEO of Fibroheal, emphasises the product's life-saving potential, stating, 'Excessive bleeding accounts for a significant percentage of battlefield fatalities. FIBROPLUG's rapid absorption and coagulation capabilities can dramatically improve survival rates."
Bharat Tandon, founder of Fibroheal, sees this innovation as a significant step in leveraging local resources, particularly Karnataka's silk production, for advanced medical technology.
FIBROPLUG stands as a testament to Indian scientific ingenuity and the transformative power of collaboration, bridging the gap between laboratory innovation and critical real-world applications, ultimately saving lives on the front lines.
First Published:
May 13, 2025, 15:28 IST
