It can be produced from cellulose by the action of an oxidizing agent, such as chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, chlorine dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, persulfates, permanganate, dichromate-sulfuric acid, hypochlorous acid, hypohalites or periodates and a variety of metal catalysts.

[1] Oxidized cellulose may contain carboxylic acid, aldehyde, and/or ketone groups, in addition to the original hydroxyl groups of the starting material, cellulose, depending on the nature of the oxidant and reaction conditions.

[3] It works both by absorbing the blood (similar to a cotton ball)[4] and by triggering the contact activation system.

It is poorly absorbed and may cause healing complications postoperatively.

[5] This drug article relating to the blood and blood forming organs is a stub.