GELFOAM Sterile Compressed Sponge is a sterile, pliable, surgical sponge prepared from specially treated, purified gelatin solution and capable of absorbing and holding within its meshes many times its weight in whole blood. When implanted in tissues, GELFOAM Sterile Compressed Sponge is completely absorbed within four to six weeks without inducing excessive scar tissue. When applied to bleeding areas of nasal, rectal, or vaginal mucosa, GELFOAM completely liquefies within two to five days.