Bone wax

The material was useful for controlling bleeding when pressed into the pores and channels of cut or damaged bone.

In addition, bone wax is not soluble in the bodily fluids and thus remains at the site of implantation for long periods of time, if not indefinitely.

The residual product can also potentially serve as a nidus (breeding site) for post-operative infection.

Modern day bone wax is commercially available in substantially non-absorbable formulations similar to Horsley's original composition, as well as in absorbable/resorbable formats.

Hemostatic putties act via tamponade in the same way as the stick waxes, but are ready to use and eliminate the requirement to soften the product prior to use.