A haemostatic paste composition comprising powdered vancomycin mixed with a biocompatible carrier. The haemostatic paste composition is easily handled, adheres to a cut bone surface or an exposed bone surface, provides for effective haemostasis to prevent blood loss from a cut bone surface or an exposed bone surface, has no systemic or local adverse effect and provides bacteriostatic and bacteriocidal protection. The haemostatic paste composition is well suited for use with sternotomy incisions, but can also be used for any cut bone surface or exposed bone surface during surgery.