A synthetic absorbable hemostatic agent for use in the control of osseous hemorrhage, comprising a copolymer of lactide and glycolide containing from about 30% to 70% lactide on a molar basis, and having a molecular weight such that it possesses a putty-like consistency at room temperature. The preferred agent has a lactide/glycolide molar ratio of 65:35 and a molecular weight of between 2000 and 2500 Dalton. The agent may also be mixed with a biocompatible base.