Imagine a simple injection of a plant-derived gel capable of halting life-threatening bleeding within seconds. This revolutionary concept is now a reality thanks to TRAUMAGEL, a cutting-edge, biocompatible hemostatic gel that’s transforming trauma care across the country. First responders, including a fire department in metro Atlanta, have already successfully employed TRAUMAGEL to save lives in critical moments.

Created by 17-year-old inventor and Cresilon CEO Joe Landolina, TRAUMAGEL works swiftly to control bleeding from gunshot wounds and severe injuries. Packaged in a compact 30-milliliter syringe, the gel can be rapidly applied on-site before the patient’s condition worsens due to excessive blood loss, which accounts for over 35% of prehospital fatalities. Its ease of use and quick action make it an invaluable tool for emergency personnel.

From a Teen’s Laboratory to Emergency Frontlines

The journey of TRAUMAGEL began in a winery laboratory, where Landolina, inspired by his grandfather—a retired chemist—developed a passion for natural, plant-based chemistry. While experimenting with polymers extracted from algae cell walls, he discovered a unique matrix capable of bonding instantly with living tissue. His innovation earned recognition at a university business plan competition, leading to the founding of Cresilon, which now operates a 55,000-square-foot biomanufacturing facility in Brooklyn with nearly 100 employees.

Transforming Trauma Response

According to Lt. David Kleiman of Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services, TRAUMAGEL has significantly improved trauma treatment efficiency. “In cases of junctional injuries—such as those to the neck, armpit, or groin—traditional methods like pressure or wound packing often took multiple responders and valuable time,” he explains. “With TRAUMAGEL, we can control bleeding within seconds, allowing us to quickly assess and move patients to definitive care.”

Real-Life Impact and Broader Applications

Recently, a Cobb County firefighter injured himself during a response to an abandoned house incident. After failing to control bleeding with conventional methods, the crew applied TRAUMAGEL, which immediately stopped the bleeding. The firefighter received further treatment and fully recovered after surgery, demonstrating the gel’s life-saving potential in real-world scenarios.

Beyond emergency services, Cresilon is testing TRAUMAGEL in more demanding environments, including military settings. Studies conducted by the U.S. Defense Department’s Walter Reed Army Institute of Research are exploring its use for controlling traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Preliminary results show promising neuroprotective effects and effective bleeding control, paving the way for expanded applications.

A Future Standard in Emergency Medicine

Severe bleeding remains the leading preventable cause of death from trauma. With TRAUMAGEL, emergency teams can manage bleeding swiftly even before hospital arrival, potentially saving countless lives. Its user-friendly design makes it suitable not only for professional EMS but also for hospitals, dental clinics, and home first-aid kits. As adoption grows, TRAUMAGEL could become a new standard in trauma care, offering faster treatment and better outcomes worldwide.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com