What does ORC stand for?

• A. Oxygenated Regenerated Compound.
• B. Oxidized Reactive Compound.
• C. Oxidized Regenerated Cellulose.
• D. Organic Regenerated Cellulose.

Answer: (C)

ORC stands for Oxidized Regenerated Cellulose, a topical hemostatic material made from cellulose that has been chemically oxidized. This oxidation introduces carboxyl groups, giving the fabric an acidic, gel-forming surface when it contacts blood. The material acts as a physical scaffold that concentrates platelets and supports coagulation, helping to stop bleeding. It’s absorbable and typically resorbs over days to weeks, so it can be left in place if needed during healing. The other terms don’t describe the same product: they either imply a different, non-oxidized form or use generic wording that doesn’t capture the specific oxidized cellulose origin and function.