[Effect of biological glues on vascular wall in an experimental model of aortic dissection]

INTRODUCTION

The use of biological glues and their application between the two dissection layers and into the anastomosis region is a common integral part of surgical management of thoracic aortic dissections.

AIM

The aim of the experimental study was to assess and evaluate histopathological changes of vascular wall following deposition of the following three types of glue--GRF, Tissucol, Bioglue, based on qualitative and quantitative parameters. The secondary aim of the study was to assess dynamics of these changes depending on the glue effect duration and to formulate expected behaviour of the vascular wall during the time beyond the experimental period.

METHODOLOGY

The dissection model was performed with pigs of the same gender and age, assigned to four groups. Different glues were used to close artificial infrarenal aortic dissections in Group 1-3, while direct suturing and no glue was used to close false lumini in Group 4. Samples of the dissected aorta were then collected at Month 1, 6 and 12 and then histologically examined.

RESULTS

Upon assessment of the whole group of qualitative and quantitative parameters, the most significant changes in the smooth muscle histological picture were observed with the use GRF glue. The smooth muscle changes following the Bioglue application and, in particular, Tissucol glue application, are similar to changes observed in Group 4, where no glue was used.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results, the authors present a hypothesis that, in a long-time horizont, vascular wall destructions, eventually redissections, are likely to occur more frequently in patients, in whom GRF glue is used.

Effect of in vitro culture on a chondrocyte-fibrin glue hydrogel for cartilage repair

Research in tissue engineering has been focused on articular cartilage repair for more than a decade. Some pioneristic studies involved the use of hydrogels such as alginate and fibrin glue which still possess valuable potential for cartilage regeneration. One of the main issues in cartilage tissue engineering is represented by the ideal maturation of the construct, before in vivo implantation, in order to optimize matrix quality and integration. The present study was focused on the effect of in vitro culture on a fibrin glue hydrogel embedding swine chondrocytes. We performed an evaluation of the immunohistochemical and biochemical composition and of the biomechanical properties of the construct after 1 and 5 weeks of culture. We noticed that chondrocytes survived in the fibrin glue gel and enhanced their synthetic activity. In fact, DNA content remained stable, while all indices of cartilage matrix production increased (GAGs content, immunohistochemistry for collagen II and safranin-o staining). On the other hand, the biomechanical properties remained steady, indicating a gradual substitution of the hydrogel scaffold by cartilaginous matrix. This demonstrates that an optimal preculture could provide the surgeon with a better engineered cartilage for implantation. However, whether this more mature tissue will result in a more efficient regeneration of the articular surface still has to be evaluated in future investigations.

A comparison of bone generation capability in rabbits using tooth ash and plaster of Paris with platelet-rich plasma or fibrin sealant

OBJECTIVES

Increased attention has been focused on determining the most efficacious materials for generalized bone grafts. This article presents the results of a histomorphometric analysis of bone healing in the calvaria of rabbits. The study compared the use of a tooth ash and plaster of Paris mixture alone, in association with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and in association with fibrin sealant.

STUDY DESIGN

Twelve rabbits were divided into control (group 1) and experimental groups (groups 2, 3, and 4). Group 1 was maintained as an unfilled control, and tooth ash and plaster of Paris were used in group 2, tooth ash and plaster of Paris with PRP were used in group 3, and tooth ash and plaster of Paris with fibrin sealant (Tissucol Duo Quick) were used in group 4. One-half of the animals were killed after 4 weeks, and the rest were killed after 8 weeks. Bone samples were taken from the defect areas, and newly formed bone was analyzed histomorphometrically.

RESULTS

The rate of new bone formation in groups 2, 3, and 4 was significantly higher than the rate in the control group. The rate of new bone formation in groups 3 and 4 was higher than the rate in group 2, but the difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The concomitant use of PRP or fibrin sealant with tooth ash and plaster of Paris graft materials may have a positive effect on bone healing.

Adherence compounds in embryo transfer media for assisted reproductive technologies

BACKGROUND

In order to increase the success rate of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), adherence compounds such as hyaluronic acid and fibrin sealant have been introduced into subfertility management. Adherence compounds are added to the embryo transfer medium in order to increase the likelihood of embryo implantation, with the potential for higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rates.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether embryo transfer media containing adherence compounds affect the live birth rate in ART compared to transfer media without adherence compounds.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Trials Register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO electronic databases were searched (to 26th May 2009) for publications which described randomised controlled trials of the addition of adherence compounds to embryo transfer media. Furthermore, reference lists of all obtained studies were checked and conference abstracts handsearched.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Only truly randomised controlled trials comparing embryo transfer media containing adherence compounds with transfer media without (or with lower doses of) adherence compounds were included. The adherence compounds that were evaluated were hyaluronic acid and fibrin sealant.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

One review author selected the trials for inclusion according to the above criteria, after which two authors independently extracted the data for subsequent analysis. The statistical analysis was performed in accordance with the guidelines developed by The Cochrane Collaboration.

MAIN RESULTS

Sixteen studies with a total of 3698 participants were analysed. One studied fibrin sealant, the other 15 studied hyaluronic acid. There was no evidence of a treatment effect of fibrin sealant as an adherence compound. For hyaluronic acid, there was no evidence of a treatment effect on live birth rate. Evidence of treatment effects could be found for the clinical pregnancy rate (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.63; P < 0.00001) and the multiple pregnancy rate (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.49 to 2.31; P < 0.00001), with higher rates in the hyaluronic acid groups. No evidence of treatment effect was found for the other outcomes.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence of an improved clinical pregnancy rate with the use of adherence compounds in ART cycles but no evidence of an effect on live birth rate. The increase in multiple pregnancy rate may be the result of the use of a combination of an adherence compound and a policy of transferring more than one embryo. Further studies of adherence compounds with single embryo transfer need to be undertaken.

A comparative biomechanical evaluation of hernia mesh fixation by fibrin sealant

BACKGROUND

The atraumatic fixation of meshes by fibrin sealant (FS) has been established for both open and laparoscopic techniques of hernia repair. This study was performed to evaluate the use of FS in hernia mesh fixation with different polymerization speed (thrombin concentrations), using commercial hernia meshes, and in two techniques, transabdominal preperitoneal mesh placement (TAPP) and intraperitoneal mesh placement (IPOM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A median laparotomy was performed in a pig model and hernia meshes were placed in IPOM and TAPP techniques. After mesh fixation with FS using thrombin concentrations of 4 and 500 IU/mL, maximum shear force before failure was measured at 5, 60, and 120 min.

RESULTS

At both thrombin concentrations and in all meshes in which the technique was used, the TAPP method tended to show higher maximum force levels at failure than did the IPOM method. In both TAPP and IPOM techniques and in all meshes, the 4 IU/mL thrombin concentration FS was superior to the 500 IU/mL thrombin concentration sealant.

CONCLUSIONS

Although both thrombin concentrations are suitable for mesh fixation, lower concentrations allow slower polymerization and better sealant diffusion leading to higher maximum force levels at failure. The TAPP method was biomechanically superior to the IPOM method. There were no major differences between mesh products.

Effect of Tisseel on bone healing with particulate dentin and plaster of Paris mixture

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Tisseel on the early healing of bone defects in the skulls of rats.

STUDY DESIGN

Forty-eight rats were randomly assigned to 4 groups, and each group was further divided into 3 subgroups which were examined at 4 and 8 weeks after the defects were filled. The 4 different groups were animals containing: no graft (group 1); particulate dentin and plaster of Paris mixture graft (group 2); Tisseel and particulate dentin and plaster of Paris mixture graft (group 3); and Tisseel graft (group 4). After killing the animals at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery, all implant blocks were prepared for histologic sections and histomorphometric analysis.

RESULTS

The overall new bone formation was significantly different between the 4-week samples and the 8-week samples. Significant differences between groups 1 and 2, groups 1 and 3, groups 1 and 4, groups 2 and 4, and groups 3 and 4 were observed at 4 weeks after surgery. At 8 weeks after surgery, significant differences between groups 1 and 2, groups 1 and 3, groups 1 and 4, and groups 2 and 4 were observed. As expected, effective bone formation was observed when the defects were filled with either particulate dentin, Tisseel, or particulate dentin-Tisseel combination. It was also observed from this study that particulate dentin is especially effective, followed by the particulate dentin-Tisseel combination and Tisseel.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that the use of Tisseel may be an alternative therapy for regenerating bone in defects when used in combination with particulate dentin.

Injectable candidate sealants for fetal membrane repair: bonding and toxicity in vitro

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to test injectable surgical sealants that are biocompatible with fetal membranes and that are to be used eventually for the closure of iatrogenic membrane defects.

STUDY DESIGN

Dermabond (Ethicon Inc, Norderstedt, Germany), Histoacryl (B. Braun GmbH, Tuttlingen, Germany), and Tissucol (Baxter AG, Volketwil, Switzerland) fibrin glue, and 3 types of in situ forming poly(ethylene glycol)-based polymer hydrogels were tested for acute toxicity on direct contact with fetal membranes for 24 hours. For the determination of elution toxicity, extracts of sealants were incubated on amnion cell cultures for 72 hours. Bonding and toxicity was assessed through morphologic and/or biochemical analysis.

RESULTS

Extracts of all adhesives were nontoxic for cultured cells. However, only Tissucol and 1 type of poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogel, which is a mussel-mimetic tissue adhesive, showed efficient, nondisruptive, nontoxic bonding to fetal membranes. Mussel-mimetic tissue adhesive that was applied over membrane defects that were created with a 3.5-mm trocar accomplished leak-proof closure that withstood membrane stretch in an in vitro model.

CONCLUSION

A synthetic hydrogel-type tissue adhesive that merits further evaluation in vivo emerged as a potential sealing modality for iatrogenic membrane defects.

Effects of polycaprolactone-tricalcium phosphate, recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 and dog mesenchymal stem cells on bone formation: pilot study in dogs

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival, proliferation, and bone formation of dog mesenchymal stem cells (dMSCs) in the graft material by using Polycaprolactone-tricalcium phosphate (PCL-TCP), auto-fibrin glue (AFG), recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2), and dMSCs after a transplantation to the scapula of adult beagle dogs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The subjects were two beagle dogs. Total dose of rhBMP-2 on each block was 10 microg with 50 microg/mg concentration. The cortical bone of the scapula of the dog was removed which was the same size of PCL-TCP block (Osteopore International Pte, Singapore; 5.0x5.0x8.0 mm in size), and the following graft material then was fixed with orthodontic mini-implant, Dual-top (Titanium alloy, Jeil Co. Seoul, Korea). Four experimental groups were prepared for this study, Group 1: PCL-TCP + aFG; Group 2: PCL-TCP + aFG + dMSCs; Group 3: PCL-TCP + aFG + dMSCs + rhBMP-2; Group 4: PCL-TCP + aFG + dMSCs + rhBMP-2 + PCL membrane. The survival or proliferation of dMSCs cells was identified with an extracted tissue through a fluorescence microscope, H-E staining and Von-Kossa staining in two weeks and four weeks after the transplantation.

RESULTS

The survival and proliferation of dMSCs were identified through a fluorescence microscope from both Group 1 and Group 2 in two weeks and four weeks after the transplantation. Histological observation also found that the injected cells were proliferating well in the G2, G3, and G4 scaffolds.

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that bone ingrowth occurred in PCL-TCP scaffold which was transplanted with rhBMP-2, and MSCs did not affect bone growth. More sufficient healing time would be needed to recognize effects of dMSCs on bone formation.

[The study and clinical application of absorbable hemostatic agent]

This paper reviews the mechanisms and properties of different absorbable hemostatic agents. The development tendency of absorbable hemostatic agent is forecasted. Its' qualities of being useful to surgeons are introduced and are embodied in surgeon's comprehending of the hemostatic characteristic of absorbable hemostatic agents as well as in their clinical use of such agents accurately. At the same time, the researchers in pursuit of the medical materials can work with reference to the data herein presented.

Assessment of the Thrombogenic Effect of Fibrin Sealant Dressing in a Vascular Surgery Model in Rabbits

This study's objective was to investigate the potential thrombogenic effects of thrombin-containing fibrin sealant dressings (FSD) in a vascular repair model. Oval-shaped pieces of the rabbit abdominal aorta and vena cava were excised, the injuries were repaired with FSD, and animals were allowed to recover. Thrombus formation was examined by (1) an infusion of indium-labeled platelets into the rabbits following FSD application and estimation of total number of platelets attached to the wounds at 2, 4, and 6 h later (short-term effect, n = 12); and by (2) morphological and histological examinations of the vessels and dressings on days 1, 3, and 7 after repair operation in another group of rabbits (long-term effect, n = 12). Application of FSD sealed the vascular injures and produced immediate hemostasis that was stable up to 1 week. The highest numbers of platelets (both native and labeled) adhered to the arterial and venous repair sites were 6.5 x 106 and 4.4 x 107, respectively, 6 h after operation. The adhered platelets, however, did not form a visible and clinically significant thrombus. In long-term experiments, no evidence of thrombus was found in the lumens of the repaired vessels or on the dressings, and no microthrombi were detected histologically in other tissues at any time point. Although vena caval injuries showed signs of healing at day 7 postoperatively, the aortic wounds expanded progressively (pseudoaneurysm) and were prone to rupture at later times. Thus, direct exposure of FSD does not cause intravascular thrombosis or thrombotic events in rabbits. The dressing appears to be safe and effective for short-term repair of vascular injuries. It may also allow healing of minor venous defects, but cannot replace conventional surgical techniques (suturing) for permanent repair of arterial damages.

Phloroglucinol-based biomimetic adhesives for medical applications

An adhesive that functions well under moist conditions could facilitate many surgical procedures. In recent studies we designed novel biomimetic glues which mimic the adhesion mechanism of algae, renowned for their remarkable adherence to wet surfaces. Here we extend our previous studies and propose biomimetic formulations, composed of alginate gel and native phloroglucinol, that do not induce cell cytotoxicity. Characterization of the adherence to tissues showed that adhesion was directly related to the mechanical strength of the cross-linked alginate. Therefore the adhesion strength can be altered by changing the source of the calcium cross-linker, the alginate G-content or the molecular weight of the alginate. The adhesion strength was comparable to that of Tisseel, a commercial tissue adhesive.

Fibrin adhesive derived from snake venom in periodontal surgery: histological analysis

BACKGROUND

A new fibrin adhesive made of buffalo plasma-derived fibrinogen and a thrombin-like snake venom enzyme, has been successfully used to immobilize free gingival grafts. This case series histologically compared sutured grafts (control group) with others immobilized by using the fibrin adhesive (experimental group).

CASE DESCRIPTION

The grafts were placed in the contralateral mandibular bicuspids of 15 patients, so that each subject received one treatment of each type. Five biopsies of each group were collected at 7, 14 and 45 days of healing, which were histologically and morphometrically analyzed as regards the relative volume density of the different connective tissue components.

RESULTS

The sites in the control group presented a higher inflammatory cell density at 7 days and a tendency towards a lower collagen density. In the experimental group, the grafts had an appearance of more advanced healing. Tissue maturity characteristics progressed until 14 and 45 days, but no difference between groups could be noted at these times.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of the present study, it may be suggested that the alternative fibrin adhesive tested could represent an alternative to sutures in gingival grafts procedures.

Comparison of fibrin glue and suture in the healing of teat incisions in lactating goats

The aims of this study were to investigate whether fibrin glue can be used to close experimentally induced incisions of the teat (mammary papillae) in lactating goats and to compare the healing of the glued with the sutured incisions. Four clinically healthy lactating dairy goats, namely 8 mammary papillae were used. After surgical preparation of the papillae, a 3.5 cm long incision of each papilla was made through skin, muscular layer and mucosa into the papillary sinus. The wounds in the right papillae in all goats were closed with U-shaped uninterrupted 00 chromic catgut sutures. The wounds in the left papillae in all goats were closed, using fibrin glue. One incision was seen to be dehisced and fistulous one day after in fibrin glued teats. The animals were slaughtered 8 days after surgical manipulation. The mammary papillae were removed and examined in the viewpoint on gross and microscopic findings. The healing of wounds was slower and feeble in glued mammary papillary incisions, however faster and stronger in sutured incisions on day 8 after operations. But, available outcomes like less tissue thickness and positive cosmetic results could be obtained byfibrin glue used on mammary papillary incisions, which are very important for teats to be milked by hand and milking machine. Results suggest that it is advisable to use only one or two simple interrupted sutures in teat incisions glued with fibrin to prevent the dehiscence but with a more reliable healing than the sutured incisions.

High-Pressure Fibrin Sealant Foam: An Effective Hemostatic Agent for Treating Severe Parenchymal Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

The majority of early trauma deaths are related to uncontrolled, noncompressible, parenchymal hemorrhage from truncal injuries. The purpose of this study was to formulate a fibrin sealant foam (FSF) able to control severe parenchymal bleeding without compression or vascular control.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

FSF with high fibrinogen concentration (20 mg/mL) and low thrombin activity (5 U/mL) was prepared and pressurized by addition of liquid gas propellant. The efficacy of this foam was tested against a severe parenchymal hemorrhage, created by partial resection of liver lobes in anticoagulated rabbits (n = 7) and compared to untreated injury (n = 8) and placebo treatment (n = 7). The hemostatic efficacy of pressurized FSF (n = 8) was also compared to a commercially available liquid fibrin sealant (n = 8) and a developing dry powdered fibrin sealant product (n = 8) in the same model.

RESULTS

The liver injury resulted in 122 +/- 11.5 mL blood loss and death of 75% of untreated rabbits (3.2-3.4 kg) within 1 h. Treatment with placebo foam had no effect on blood loss or mortality rate. Pressurized FSF significantly reduced bleeding, resulting in 56% (P < 0.05) and 66% (P < 0.01) reduction in blood loss as compared to untreated or placebo-treated animals, respectively, and 100% survival (P = 0.008). When pressurized FSF was compared with liquid and powdered forms of fibrin sealant, only foam significantly reduced blood loss (49%, P < 0.05) and mortality rate (54%, P < 0.05) of rabbits as compared to untreated control animals (n = 9).

CONCLUSION

Biological nature, rapid preparation, coverage of large wound areas, and effective hemostatic properties make pressurized FSF an ideal candidate for treating nonoperable parenchymal injuries in damage control procedures.

Influence of fibrin glue on proliferation and differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells seeded on a biologic 3-dimensional matrix

For tissue engineering of bone, a carrier matrix and efficient cell seeding are desirable. This study analysed the effect of fibrin glue on bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) adhesion, proliferation (MTS-Test), differentiation (alkaline phosphatase (AP), osteocalcin (OC), ELISA) and compared the results with cells seeded within culture media on a decellularized, xenogenic bone matrix. There was no significant difference regarding cell adhesion. Proliferation after one week was significantly increased without fibrin glue. AP was increased in both groups when compared with porous scaffolds without cells. OC secretion was increased under both seeding conditions. Microscopic investigation of the cells with fibrin-glue showed less cell-cell contacts. This study reveals that cell seeding with medium demonstrates similar adherence rates compared with fibrin glue. Fibrin glue significantly decreases cell proliferation. Cell differentiation with respect to ALP and OC is not affected. Further studies are required to assess the long term and in vivo effects of both methods with respect to BMSC viability and differentiation. Fibrin sealants seem not necessary to achieve cell adherence when using a porous bone matrix.

Tissue engineering of tendons and ligaments by human bone marrow stromal cells in a liquid fibrin matrix in immunodeficient rats: results of a histologic study

INTRODUCTION

The original complex structure and mechanical properties are not fully restored after ligament and tendon injuries. Due to their high proliferation rate and differentiation potential, Bone Marrow Stromal Cells (BMSC) are considered to be an ideal cell source for tissue engineering to optimize the healing process. Ideal matrices for tissue engineering of ligaments and tendons should allow for homogenous cell seeding and offer sufficient stability.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A mixture of human BMSC and liquid fibrin glue was injected into a standardized full-thickness window defect of the patellar tendon of immunodeficient rats (BMSC group). The histology of the tissue was analysed 10 and 20 days postoperatively and compared to four control groups. These groups consisted of a cohort with a mixture of human fibroblasts and fibrin glue, fibrin glue without cells, a defect group without treatment, and a group with uninjured patellar tendon tissue.

RESULTS

Tendon defects in the BMSC group revealed dense collagen fibres and spindle-shaped cells, which were mainly orientated along the loading axis. Histologic sections of the control groups, especially of untreated defects and of defects filled with fibrin glue only, showed irregular patterns of cell distribution, irregular formed cell nucleoli and less tissue maturation. Compared to healthy tendon tissue, higher numbers of cells and less intense matrix staining was observed in the BMSC group. No ectopic bone or cartilage formation was observed in any specimen.

CONCLUSIONS

Injection of human BMSC in a fibrin glue matrix appears to lead to more mature tissue formation with more regular patterns of cell distribution. Advantages of this "in-vivo" tissue engineering approach are a homogenous cell-matrix mixture in a well-known and approved biological matrix, and simple, minimally-invasive application by injection.

Comparison of structure, strength and cytocompatibility of a fibrin matrix supplemented either with tranexamic acid or aprotinin

Fibrin sealants are used as hemostats, sealants, tissue adhesives, and as matrix for substances/cells in a number of surgical and tissue engineering procedures. Main characteristics of fibrin are high tensile strength, adhesive strength, biocompatibility, and resorption. A major adverse event would be premature fibrin lysis and recurrent bleeding. This must be prevented by fibrinolysis inhibitors. The most common fibrinolysis inhibitors used are aprotinin and tranexamic acid (t-AMCA). Comparison of commercially available fibrin sealants utilizing aprotinin or t-AMCA revealed a lower sealing efficacy in an in vivo lung resection model for a t-AMCA containing product. Therefore, we compared the influence of t-AMCA and aprotinin on structure, mechanical properties, and cytocompatibility of a fibrin matrix. In our experiments, we found that substitution of aprotinin with t-AMCA reduced the tensile strength and formation of fibrin fibers and affected viability of a fibroblast cell-line. In conclusion, t-AMCA negatively affects physical and biological properties of fibrin relevant for clinical application as well as tissue regeneration.

Insulin secretion from pancreatic islets in fibrin glue clots at different fibrinogen and thrombin concentrations

BACKGROUND

Fibrin glue has proven to be a good delivery system for cell transplantation but the factors that influence the fibrin-cell relationships are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of different concentrations of fibrin glue components (thrombin and fibrinogen) on the function of pancreatic islets.

METHOD

Islets were isolated from rat pancreata and combined with 6 different fibrin glue formulations. Each islet sample was incubated sequentially with RPMI containing low and high glucose, and culture supernatants were harvested for insulin determination using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The control group (no fibrin glue) and group 3 (with thrombin 50 U/mL and fibrinogen 10 mg/mL) had the highest insulin secretion in response to glucose stimulation. These were followed by groups 5 and 4 with 2.6 and 1.8 stimulation indexes, respectively. Group 2 (with thrombin 50 U/mL and fibrinogen 5 mg/mL) and group 6 (commercial kit with thrombin 250 U/mL and fibrinogen 75-115 mg/mL) had the lowest insulin response after glucose stimulation.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that different fibrin glue formulations significantly impact pancreatic islets function. In the future, when using fibrin glue as a carrier for pancreatic islet transplantation, lower concentrations of fibrinogen and thrombin are recommended to obtain more viable and functional grafts.

Experience with Fibrin Glue in Rhytidectomy

BACKGROUND

The authors conducted a large, prospective, controlled trial of fibrin glue in rhytidectomy using a wide set of variables.

METHODS

Two hundred consecutive patients undergoing elective rhytidectomy were studied. One hundred patients received fibrin glue over a 1-year period and were followed prospectively. Another 100 patients from the previous year who had not received fibrin glue had their charts reviewed retrospectively. All patients underwent bilateral face lifts using the deep plane technique.

RESULTS

The following data were observed for the glue versus nonglue patients: expanding hematoma rate, 1 percent versus 3 percent (p > 0.05); seroma rate, 1 percent versus 7 percent (p > 0.05); and prolonged induration, edema, and ecchymosis, 0 percent versus 22 percent (p < 0.05). The pain score for glue versus nonglue patients was 100 percent minimal versus 95 percent minimal and 5 percent moderate (p > 0.05). The average score for patient satisfaction (scale, 1 to 10, with 10 being best) for glue versus nonglue patients was 9.5 versus 9.0 (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of fibrin glue was associated with some benefits for rhytidectomy. Fibrin glue eliminated the use of drains. The difference in expanding hematoma was clinically, but not statistically, significant. The seroma rate was decreased and neared statistical significance. There was an impressive immediate decrease in postoperative swelling. The fibrin glue was most advantageous in eliminating prolonged induration, edema, and ecchymosis. There were no statistical differences between groups for patient satisfaction or pain. The use of fibrin glue has been shown to reduce some of the morbidity and severe complications of face lifting.

Staple line reinforcement with fleece-coated fibrin glue (TachoComb) after thoracoscopic bullectomy for the treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax

BACKGROUND

We investigated the cause of pneumothorax recurrence after thoracoscopic surgery and the effectiveness of staple line reinforcement with fleece-coated fibrin glue (TachoComb) in the prevention of postoperative pneumothorax recurrence.

METHODS

From April 3, 1992 to the end of December 2005, thoracoscopic bullectomy was performed on 499 patients of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. The causes of recurrence were investigated on 39 patients on the basis of surgical observations, preoperative chest computed tomography, and so on. The most common cause was new bulla formation (37 cases), 19 of which were apparently related to the staple line (within 1 cm of the staple lines) and 15 of which were not related to the staple line. After 2000, we stopped using forceps to grasp lungs and we have reinforced the staple line by applying fleece-coated fibrin glue.

RESULTS

The staple line reinforced with fleece-coated fibrin glue, or sprayed with fibrin glue solution and the untreated group (bullectomy only with staples) were compared, and the recurrence rates were 1.22%, 7.25%, and 10.00%, respectively (P = 0.0006021).

CONCLUSIONS

The recurrence rate after thoracoscopic bullectomy with fleece-coated fibrin glue was significantly lowered and we consider this procedure to be the treatment of choice for the management of spontaneous pneumothorax.

Effects of fibrin sealer and resorbable gelatin on the repair of osseous defects in rat tibia

Gelfoam - a biologically resorbable gelatin sponge - has the function of restricting hemorrhage, providing platelet rupture, and supporting fibrin threads. Beriplast - a fibrinogen-thrombin compound - is used to adhere tissues, to consolidate sutures and in hemostasis. The objective of this study was to perform a histological analysis of the effects of haemostatic agents on osseous repair. These materials were inserted into surgical sites in young rat right and left tibiae. After the observation periods of 7, 14, 30 and 45 days, according to the bioethic protocol, the animals were killed, the tibiae were removed and fixed in 10% formalin and decalcified in equal parts of formic acid and sodium citrate solutions. After routine processing, the specimens were embedded in paraffin for microtomy. Analysis of the results demonstrated that the haemostatic agents are effective in controlling hemorrhage; they stimulate osteogenesis, featuring a pattern of osseous tissue formation similar to the control pattern, although the amount of osseous trabeculae was superior, especially in the Gelfoam group in the periods of 7 and 14 days; 30 days after surgery, the delay in tissue healing in the control group in relation to the experimental groups started to decrease, and the control and experimental groups exhibited similar tissue repair after 45 days, when all the groups exhibited secondary osseous tissue.

[Effects of exogenous basic fibroblast growth factor on in-sheathed tendon healing and adhesion formation]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of exogenous basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on in-sheathed tendon healing and adhesion formation.

METHODS

Ninety Leghorn chickens were randomly divided into 3 groups (groups A, B and C), 30 animals for each group, and the right third digitorum longus tendon of the chicken was transected to make defect models. In group A, the tendon was sutured in situ after transection. In group B, the tendon was sutured after 0.6 microl fibrin sealant (FS) was applied at repair site. In group C, the tendon was sutured after 0.6 microl FS mixed with 500 ng bFGF was applied at repair site. At 1, 2, 4 and 8 weeks after operation, the tendons of 6 chickens in each group were harvested for morphological and histological evaluation. Six specimens of each group was obtained for biomechanical test at 8 weeks.

RESULTS

The gross observation showed that the differences of grading of tendon adhesion were not significant between groups A, B, and C 8 weeks after operation (P > 0.05). Histological evaluation showed that there were no significant differences in fibroblast counting and the content of collagen fibers between groups A and B (P > 0.05). The angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation and collagen production in the sheath, epitendon and parenchyma at repair site in group C occurred earlier and were more than those in groups A and B, showing significant differences (P < 0.05). The biomechanical tests showed that the gliding excursion of the tendon in group A, B and C were 3.44 +/- 0.43, 3.51 +/- 0.56 and 2.84 +/- 0.42 mm respectively; the work of flexion were 14.87 +/- 1.72, 14.08 +/- 1.85 and 20.62 +/- 3.52 Nmm respectively; the ultimate tensile strength of the tendon was 10.34 +/- 1.45, 11.26 +/- 1.83 and 15.02 +/- 2.20 N respectively; showing no significant differences between groups A and B (P > 0.05), but showing significant differences between group C and groups A, B (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The exogenous bFGF at tendon repair site can facilitate in-sheathed tendon healing, but also increase the tendon adhesion formation.

The role of biological extracellular matrix scaffolds in vascularized three-dimensional tissue growthin vivo

An in vivo murine vascularized chamber model has been shown to generate spontaneous angiogenesis and new tissue formation. This experiment aimed to assess the effects of common biological scaffolds on tissue growth in this model. Either laminin-1, type I collagen, fibrin glue, hyaluronan, or sea sponge was inserted into silicone chambers containing the epigastric artery and vein, one end was sealed with adipose tissue and the other with bone wax, then incubated subcutaneously. After 2, 4, or 6 weeks, tissue from chambers containing collagen I, fibrin glue, hyaluronan, or no added scaffold (control) had small amounts of vascularized connective tissue. Chambers containing sea sponge had moderate connective tissue growth together with a mild "foreign body" inflammatory response. Chambers containing laminin-1, at a concentration 10-fold lower than its concentration in Matrigel, resulted in a moderate adipogenic response. In summary, (1) biological hydrogels are resorbed and gradually replaced by vascularized connective tissue; (2) sponge-like matrices with large pores support connective tissue growth within the pores and become encapsulated with granulation tissue; (3) laminin-containing scaffolds facilitate adipogenesis. It is concluded that the nature and chemical composition of the scaffold exerts a significant influence on the amount and type of tissue generated in this in vivo chamber model.

Biological Glues and Collagen Fleece for Hemostasis during Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy: Technique and Results of Prospective Study

PURPOSE

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the advantages or disadvantages of the use of fibrin glue and collagen fleece during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two groups of patients were studied. Group A (n = 24) received parenchymal suture, whereas Group B (n = 20) received parenchymal suture with fibrin glue and collagen fleece. The two groups were similar in baseline characteristics. We evaluated patient age, size of the lesion at CT, operative time, ischemia time, and sealant technique in relation to blood loss, hospital stay, and hemorrhagic complications.

RESULTS

No significant difference was observed in perioperative parameters (P > 0.05). The mean size of lesion was 3.3 +/- 1.2 (range 1-8 cm) for group A and 3.0 +/- 1.3 (range 2-5 cm) for Group B. The mean operative time was 116 +/- 26.6 minutes (range 90-220 minutes) for group A and 130 +/- 23.5 minutes (range 90-210 minutes) for group B. The mean warm ischemia time was 28.8 +/- 5.7 minutes (range 18-60) minutes) and 35.6 +/- 6.2 minutes (range 20-52 minutes), respectively. The mean blood loss was 178 +/- 34.5 mL (range 50-400 ml) for group A and 219 +/- 44.6 mL (range 80-750 ml) for group B. The mean hospital stay was 5.9 +/- 1.2 days (range 5-8 days) for group A and 6.3 +/- 2.1 days (range 5-9 days) for group B. Four and two postoperative hemorrhage complications were observed in groups A and B, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The use of fibrin glues and collagen fleece should be considered an adjuvant, as it does not present any substantial advantages, the suture being the key point in hemostasis control. We believe that in order to improve hemostasis, the efficacy of other types of sealants should be studied, as we were not convinced by those we used.