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News18
13-05-2025
- Health
- News18
From An IISc Student Project To The Frontlines: How FIBROPLUG Stops Bleeding, Saves Lives
Last Updated: 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
New Indian Express
12-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Telangana MP Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy helps boy secure Rs 3 lakh for surgery
KHAMMAM: Khammam MP Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy extended support to an auto driver, Banoth Saidulu from Wyra, who sought his assistance for his seven-year-old son, suffering from a genetic bone marrow disorder. The MP promptly intervened to facilitate medical aid, assisting Banoth obtain Rs 3 lakh through a Letter of Credit (LC) from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund (PMRF) for his son, Upender's bone marrow transplant surgery. The LC was issued after the MP coordinated with relevant officials in Delhi, ensuring the necessary financial support for the child's treatment. On Sunday, Raghuram handed over the LC to the family at their residence, expressing hope for Upender's successful surgery. Similarly, the MP also visited the family of Gudikonda Vinod, a victim of a recent gas cylinder explosion in Mittapalli village. The explosion resulted in four fatalities. Raghuram, accompanied by Sathupalli MLA Dr M Ragamayee, consoled the family and provided financial assistance to support Vinod's recovery.
