Seprafilm®: the most widely used adhesion barrier in clinical practice1

 

The science


Seprafilm is a sterile, bioresorbable, translucent adhesion barrier composed of 2 polysaccharides: sodium hyaluronate (HA) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) that have been chemically modified. HA is a naturally occurring polysaccharide expressed throughout the human body. CMC, also a polysaccharide, is a derivative of cellulose. Both are common components in pharmaceuticals, foods, and cosmetics. The properties of these components render Seprafilm hydrophilic—so it doesn’t require suturing and stays where it is applied until resorbed.2,3

 

How it works

When applied as directed, Seprafilm Adhesion Barrier can be expected to reduce the incidence, extent, and severity of adhesions within the abdominopelvic cavity. Seprafilm becomes a gel within 24 to 48 hours after placement. It is slowly resorbed within a week and is excreted from the body in less than 28 days.3

 

Indication
Seprafilm® Adhesion Barrier is indicated for the reduction of post-surgical adhesions in patients undergoing abdominal or pelvic laparotomy.

Important Safety Information
Seprafilm should not be wrapped around an intestinal anastomosis as such usage may result in increased anastomotic leak related events, such as abscess or peritonitis. The safety and effectiveness of Seprafilm has not been established in combination with other adhesion prevention products and/or in surgical procedures not within the abdominopelvic cavity. The safety and effectiveness of Seprafilm has also not been evaluated in cases of pregnancy, malignancy, or frank infection. The type and frequency of adverse events reported are consistent with events typically seen following abdominopelvic surgery when used as directed.

Please see full prescribing information.

References

  1. Data on file, Genzyme Corp.
  2. Diamond MP. Reduction of adhesions after uterine myomectomy by Seprafilm membrane (HAL-F): a blinded, prospective, randomized, multicenter clinical study. Fertil: Steril 1996;66(6);904-910.
  3. Seprafilm Adhesion Barrier [package insert]. Cambridge, MA: Genzyme Biosurgery; 2008.

Applying Seprafilm

View a demonstration of common application techniques that may help when using Seprafilm.

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Physican Testimonials

Hear what your colleagues have to say about adhesive disease and Seprafilm Adhesion Barrier.