Bismuth subgallate as a topical hemostatic agent at palatal donor sites

Objective: To present bismuth subgallate as a simplified and efficient method for promoting hemostasis at palatal donor sites, as evaluated by measuring hemostasis time and delayed bleeding. Method and Materials: Ten patients received the bismuth subgallate paste as a topical hemostatic agent, while another 10 patients received moistened gauze pressure. The time to obtain complete hemostasis, defined as no visual bleeding, was recorded for each subject. Results: Bismuth subgallate paste was found to decrease hemostasis time, when compared with moistened gauze pressure. The mean hemostasis time for the bismuth subgallate group was significantly shorter (2.6 ± 0.7 minutes) when compared to the moistened gauze group (7.2 ± 1.4 minutes). While delayed bleeding was observed in the moistened gauze group, no statistically significant difference was found between the groups (P = .10). Conclusion: The use of bismuth subgallate as a topical hemostatic for palatal wounds may be an option when performing free soft tissue grafts. Keywords: bismuth subgallate, hemostatic agent, palatal donor sites