Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Dermabond (2-Octyl Cyanoacrylate) After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Repeat Exposure to Mesh-Glue Dressing is Associated with Allergic Contact Dermatitis: A Prospective Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Certain postoperative dressing types have been associated with allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), presenting as a peri-incisional eczematous skin reaction. The purpose of this study was to compare rates of ACD following arthroplasty between patients who have prior exposure and those naïve to a specific dressing type (self-adhesive polyester mesh and 2-octyl cyanoacrylate liquid adhesive).

METHODS

There were 222 patients undergoing 245 procedures (163 TKAs, 69 THAs, 13 UKAs) between August 2023 and May 2024 at a single institution, prospectively evaluated. Patients were categorized as "exposed" or "naïve" based on prior exposure to the studied dressing. Patients were excluded if they had a previous skin reaction to the mesh-glue dressing or unknown exposure. Skin checks were performed on postoperative days seven and 14. The primary outcome of the study was ACD requiring treatment. Baseline demographics, comorbidities, and 90-day complications were compared. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was utilized to determine the independent risk of dressing exposure on ACD. There were 86 procedures in patients previously exposed and 159 in naïve. There were no differences in age, sex, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), or Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) between the two cohorts (P > 0.05).

RESULTS

An ACD was more common in exposed patients (seven of 86; 8.1%) compared to naïve patients (three of 159; 1.9%; P = 0.030). After controlling for sex, age, BMI, procedure type, and CCI, exposed patients were more likely to experience ACD (odds ratio: 6.48, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.64 to 25.43, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Previous exposure to the mesh-glue dressing increases the risk of ACD by 6-fold as compared to dressing naïve patients. This is likely through a type-IV delayed hypersensitivity reaction. Although symptoms uniformly resolved with treatment, clinicians should weigh the benefits of repeat use of this dressing given the risk of ACD.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level II.

Dermabond Prineo: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Dermabond Prineo (Ethicon Inc., US) is a combination of a skin adhesive applied over a polyester mesh to reinforce and share tension equally over the surgical wound with the aim of reducing closure time and improving wound healing. The aims of this systematic review were to assess published data on Dermabond Prineo regarding infection rates, delayed wound healing, cosmetic appearance and application time compared to conventional wound closure techniques across multiple surgical procedures.

METHOD

A literature search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome was the incidence of wound infection after Dermabond Prineo compared to controls, namely traditional methods of wound closure such as staples, sutures and adhesives. Secondary outcome measures included allergic reactions and time taken for application.

RESULTS

A literature search using PubMed, SCOPUS and Science Direct identified 52 studies, of which 19 were eligible for qualitative synthesis and 12 for meta-analysis. The studies included reflected a broad range of applications of Dermabond Prineo for wound closure in abdominoplasty, mammoplasty and arthroplasty. Overall, all studies reporting on time taken for application found that Dermabond Prineo reduced time for wound closure. Meta-analysis identified a statistically significant reduction in wound infection rates (Dermabond Prineo 1.51%, control 2.13%; OR: 0.65 (0.46, 0.91); p=0.01) and a reduction in delayed wound healing (Dermabond Prineo 0.99%, control 1.79%; OR: 0.42 (0.18, 0.98); p=0.05). All three studies reporting on outcomes of scar cosmesis or long-term maturation attested to improved cosmetic results compared with sutures. The cost-effectiveness of Dermabond Prineo with a hypothetical model was discussed in two studies which concluded that it could achieve savings of $50-76 USD per patient, while a retrospective model found no statistically significant difference in total hospital costs or operating room time.

CONCLUSION

In this review, Dermabond Prineo showed lower wound infection rates and a reduction in delayed wound healing. Further studies are required to assess cost-effectiveness in a real-world setting.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Octyl Cyanoacrylate Skin Glue After Surgical Wound Closure: A Systematic Review

The rising incidence of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) after cyanoacrylate adhesive use necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its clinical presentations, risk factors, and management. In this systematic review, we conducted an exhaustive search following PRISMA guidelines within Medline and PubMed databases to identify studies reporting cases of ACD resulting from cyanoacrylate adhesive application in wound closure. A total of 47 studies, covering 193 ACD cases, were included in our analysis. These cases involved 35 male, 120 female patients, and 38 cases without gender information (M:F ratio = 1:3.43), with ages ranging from 7 to 92 years (mean age 43.9 years). The majority of cases (n = 140) were part of 6 orthopedic studies, focusing on joint replacements (n = 68), orthopedic surgeries (n = 38), and breast surgeries (n = 29). The remaining 58 cases encompassed various surgical procedures. Common clinical manifestations included swelling, pruritic rash, erythema, vesicles, and itching around the surgical sites, typically appearing around 10 days post-adhesive application (within a range of 6 hours to 6 weeks). Patients with prior exposure to 2-octyl cyanoacrylate tended to exhibit earlier symptoms. Similar rates of dermatitis were observed across different adhesive brands, suggesting brand independence. Treatment strategies involved adhesive removal, administration of steroids and antihistamines, meticulous wound care, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Notably, 3.1% of the 193 cases required surgical intervention. Risk factors, including a history of atopic dermatitis, high body mass index, diabetes, prior adhesive exposure, and surgical history, were identified in the studies. Patch tests confirmed 2-octyl cyanoacrylate as the allergen in 21 studies. Our review aims to enhance health care professionals' understanding of ACD resulting from the use of cyanoacrylate adhesive, facilitating improved postsurgical management and prevention strategies. Recognizing diverse risk factors, understanding varying clinical presentations, distinguishing ACD from infection, and employing appropriate treatment approaches are essential for achieving optimal outcomes in such cases.

Association of Surgical Adhesive and Glue System With Incidence of Allergic Dermatitis Post Unilateral and Staged Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background Skin closure is an important step in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Several techniques are described in the literature with emerging interest in skin adhesives. This study aims to highlight the adverse reactions related to skin adhesives and to identify potential risk factors. Methods A retrospective review of 250 patients (295 knees, 45 being staged bilateral TKA) who underwent TKA was conducted at our facility. All patients underwent the same perioperative protocol with application of surgical glue over the wound edges. Postoperative adverse reactions were classified as allergic dermatitis (AD), cellulitis, and superficial infection. Results Incidence of adverse reactions in the form of AD was noted in 4.8% of patients. Demographics and comorbidities had no influence on this occurrence (p>0.05). However, in patients who had bilateral staged TKA, AD manifested after performing the second contralateral TKA in 22% of patients. This incidence of AD was significantly higher when compared to those who had single unilateral TKA (p =0.001) Conclusion The theory of allergic sensitization may explain the higher incidence of AD in bilateral staged TKA due to prior exposure to glue components in the first knee; thus, we recommend avoiding its use if there was previous exposure.

Comparison of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate with polyester mesh with standard suture and staples in total knee and hip arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

The use of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate with polyester mesh (OCA-M) has become common in total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA, TKA). We aimed to compare the safety and cosmetic outcomes between OCA-M and standard suture techniques and staples, and determine whether OCA-M can safely be used for TKA.

METHOD

Inclusion criteria were patients who underwent THA or TKA from January 2010 to October 2011 (Suture group), November 2011 to August 2013 (Staple group), March 2017 to September 2018 (OCA-M group). Exclusion criteria was loss of imaging data. Complications during hospitalisation (early complication) and after discharge (late complication) were compared in groups. Plastic and orthopaedic surgeons performed cosmetic evaluations with the modified Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and Likert scale at three and six months postoperatively and compared in groups.

RESULTS

A total of 249 arthroplasties (suture group=88 patients; staple group=94 patients; OCA-M group=67 patients) were included in the study. The OCA-M group had a significantly lower early complication rate than the suture group (p=0.015). For THA, the OCA-M group had a significantly lower total complication rate than the suture group (p=0.048). For TKA, there was no significant difference among the three groups. The complication rate in the OCA-M group showed no significant difference between THA/TKA. With regards to the VSS, the OCA-M group was significantly better for cosmetic qualities than the suture group (p=<0.001, p=0.021 at three and six months, respectively). For the Likert scale, the OCA-M group was also significantly better for cosmetic qualities than the suture group and staple group (suture-OCA-M, p=0.003 (three months), p=<0.001 (six months); staple-OCA-M, p=0.027 (three months)).

CONCLUSION

In this study, the OCA-M complication rate was low compared to suturing and similar to stapling. Moreover, better cosmetic outcomes were achieved compared to suturing and stapling.

Comparative Evaluation of Tissue Adhesives and Sutures in the Management of Facial Laceration Wounds in Children

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated tissue adhesives in comparison to sutures for treating facial lacerations in children.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from September 2017 to August 2022 involving pediatric facial lacerations managed with either tissue adhesives or sutures.

RESULTS

Among 50 children, 20 received tissue adhesives, and 30 received sutures. Both methods showed comparable outcomes in terms of wound complications such as dehiscence (adjusted odds ratio = 1.56, 95% CI = 0.08-31.25) and infection (adjusted odds ratio = 2.17, 95% CI = 0.08-58.80). The cosmetic outcomes, assessed using the Hollander Wound Evaluation Score, were also consistent between groups (adjusted beta = -0.55, 95% CI = -1.15-0.05). Notably, those treated with tissue adhesives reported greater satisfaction (adjusted beta = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.63 -1.63) and experienced significantly less pain (adjusted beta = -3.03, 95% CI = -4.15--1.90).

CONCLUSIONS

Both techniques displayed similar rates of infection, dehiscence, and cosmetic outcomes. However, tissue adhesives were associated with increased patient comfort, especially in terms of reduced pain and greater satisfaction.

Adhesive Taping Shows Better Cosmetic Outcomes Than Tissue Adhesives for Sutured Upper Extremity Incisions: A Single-Blind Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Adhesive taping is commonly used to reinforce wound closure and approximate minor lacerations. Recently, tissue adhesives such as 2-octylcyanoacrylate have gained popularity because of their high tensile strength, bacteriostatic properties, and spontaneous peeling. We sought to evaluate the cosmetic result of upper extremity incisions closed primarily by subcuticular suture, randomizing the application of tissue adhesive vs adhesive taping to different halves of the same surgical incision. Subjects were recruited from patients undergoing common procedures at the senior surgeon's hand surgery clinic. After primary closure, we applied either quarter-inch adhesive tape or tissue adhesive to the proximal and distal aspects of the wounds, based on a preoperative randomization protocol. We assessed the scars at approximately 3 months (range, 2-5 months). Subjects completed a validated scar assessment questionnaire, and a blinded photograph was obtained to allow 2 independent surgeons to assess the scar. Mean age was 63 years (SD, 11.8 years; range, 21-88 years); 56% of patients were women, and 44% were men. Most of the incisions were open carpal tunnel release and thumb carpometacarpal arthroplasty (14 each). Adhesive taping showed a better overall mean score based on evaluation by the hand surgeons, a finding that was statistically significant. The greatest differences were observed between color and size, but no subcategories were significantly different. Patients reported nonstatistical, but slightly better overall cosmetic outcomes with adhesive taping rather than tissue adhesive. Adhesive strips provide a modest but significant improvement in cosmetic outcomes vs more expensive tissue adhesive. Future evaluation of closure methods that evaluate cost, speed of application, suture technique, and dressing will optimize scar appearance. [Orthopedics. 2022;45(1):e42-e46.].

Incidence and risk factor of allergic contact dermatitis to 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and n-butyl cyanoacrylate topical skin adhesives

Although the use of topical skin adhesives has increased as an alternative to conventional skin closure methods, studies on the incidence and risk factors of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to topical skin adhesives have been limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors of ACD after the use of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and n-butyl cyanoacrylate topical skin adhesives. We retrospectively reviewed 1145 patients (739 patients with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and 406 patients with n-butyl cyanoacrylate) who underwent skin closure with topical skin adhesives. Variables suspected to correlate with ACD were retrieved from medical records and analyzed to determine risk factors. The incidence of ACD from the use of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and n-butyl cyanoacrylate topical skin adhesives was 2.7% and 2.2%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence between the two ingredients. In logistic regression analysis, none of the variables were found to increase the risk of ACD in both 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and n-butyl cyanoacrylate topical skin adhesives. As ACD occurs without risk factors in 2-3% of patients who used 2-octyl cyanoacrylate or n-butyl cyanoacrylate topical skin adhesives, clinicians and patients should be aware of these facts before using topical skin adhesives.

Medical Adhesive Allergens: Retrospective Analysis of Cross-Sectional Data from the North American Contact Dermatitis Group, 2001-2018

BACKGROUND

Identification of allergens causing medical adhesive contact allergy is difficult.

OBJECTIVE

Characterize the demographics, clinical characteristics, patch test results and occupational data for North American Contact Dermatitis Group (NACDG) patients with medical adhesive contact allergy.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 43,722 NACDG patients patch-tested 2001-2018, with: 1) medical adhesive (tapes/band aids/adhesive aids/suture glue) source, 2) positive patch test, and 3) final primary diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis.

RESULTS

313 (0.7%) patients met inclusion criteria. Compared to other patients with final primary diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis, medical adhesive allergy patients were less likely male (odds ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval [0.45-0.77]) and/or age >40 (0.76 [0.6-0.96]). The most common NACDG screening series allergens were colophony (80.7%), balsam of Peru (3.9%), 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (2.7%) and carba mix (2.7%). One-fourth (79/313, 25.2%) had positive patch test reactions to supplemental allergens/materials, and 17.3% (54/313) only had reactions to supplemental allergens/materials.

LIMITATIONS

Results of comprehensive patch testing may be prone to referral population selection bias and may not be representative of the general dermatology population.

CONCLUSION

Colophony was the most common allergen. Supplemental allergens and materials should be tested in the evaluation of suspected medical adhesive contact allergy.

Allergic dermatitis after knee arthroscopy with repeated exposure to Dermabond Prineo™ in pediatric patients: Two case reports

BACKGROUND

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) secondary to Dermabond Prineo™ is rare, but documented. To our knowledge, there are no described reports of this ACD reaction within the pediatric population following arthroscopic surgery.

CASE SUMMARY

We report two cases of pediatric ACD upon second exposure to Dermabond Prineo™ after knee arthroscopy. Both cases presented within two weeks of the inciting second exposure. The cases resolved with differing described combinations of sterile cleaning, diphenhydramine, and antibiotic administration. No long-term sequelae were found.

CONCLUSION

This case report elucidates the rare complication of allergic dermatitis secondary to Dermabond Prineo™ repeat exposure use in pediatric arthroscopy.

Comparison of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate skin adhesive and interrupted polypropylene sutures for wound closure in total ankle arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Adhesive skin materials have increasingly been used in orthopedic surgery. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of skin adhesive (2-octyl cyanoacrylate and polymer mesh, Dermabond Prineo) and interrupted polypropylene sutures for wound closure in patients undergoing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA).

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 107 consecutive patients (108 ankles) undergoing TAA and divided them into two groups: skin adhesive group (36 ankles) and suture group (72 ankles). The primary outcome assessment included wound complications and patient satisfaction for wound cosmesis. The secondary outcome assessment included duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, and the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) pain and disability score.

RESULTS

There was one case of allergic contact dermatitis, three cases of wound dehiscence, and one case of superficial surgical site infection in the skin adhesive group. Among them, one case each with allergic contact dermatitis and wound dehiscence finally progressed to deep surgical site infection. Three cases of wound dehiscence were also reported in the suture group; however, there was no case of surgical site infection. Patient satisfaction for wound cosmesis was significantly higher in the skin adhesive group than in the suture group (p = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of secondary outcomes (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the use of Dermabond Prineo showed better patient satisfaction for wound cosmesis, it showed significantly high wound complication rates and no other clinical benefits compared to interrupted polypropylene suture in TAA. Our results suggest that awareness of the possibility of wound complications is necessary when Dermabond Prineo is used in TAA.

Randomized Controlled Trial of Topical Skin Adhesive vs Nylon Sutures for Incision Closure in Forefoot Surgery

BACKGROUND

There are many options for incision closure in forefoot surgery. The aim of this study was to compare topical skin adhesive (2-octyl-cyanoacrylate) to simple interrupted nylon sutures.

METHODS

A prospective randomized controlled trial comparing topical skin adhesive (TSA) and nylon sutures (NSs) for elective open forefoot surgery. Primary outcome was Hollander Wound Evaluation Scale (HWES) assessed 2 weeks following surgery. Secondary objectives included time taken for wound closure, wound assessment, patient satisfaction with wound cosmesis, incision pain, and infection rate.

RESULTS

Between January and December 2018, 84 feet (70 patients) underwent hallux valgus scarf/Akin osteotomy or first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis and were randomized to receive either intervention (topical skin adhesive) or control (3/0 nylon sutures). We found worse HWES scores when using TSA compared to NSs (1.07 vs 0.60). Incision closure time was slower for TSA (mean, 272 vs 229 seconds). At 2 weeks postoperatively, wound care was faster for TSA (mean 71 secs) vs NSs (mean 120), and patient-reported pain was less with TSA (visual analog scale: TSA 1.2 vs NSs 2.1). A high degree of overall patient satisfaction was reported in both groups, without significant difference.

CONCLUSION

Closure of elective forefoot surgery incisions with topical skin adhesive or interrupted nylon sutures offers high satisfaction rates, low pain scores, and low complications. However, topical skin adhesive was associated with more inflammation and areas of wound separation compared to nylon sutures. We recommend the use of sutures for wound closure in forefoot surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, randomized controlled trial.

Postoperative contact dermatitis caused by skin adhesives used in orthopedic surgery: Incidence, characteristics, and difference from surgical site infection

Skin adhesives are used to close clean surgical wounds. We aimed to investigate the incidence of skin adhesive-related contact dermatitis and the characteristics that differentiate it from a surgical site infection.We retrospectively analyzed patients whose surgical wound was closed using a liquid skin adhesive (Dermabond Prineo skin closure system, Ethicon, NJ) by a single surgeon between March 2018 and June 2020. Medical records were reviewed to evaluate complications indicating contact dermatitis, including wound infections and hematomas.We included 143 patients (men, 59; women, 84; mean age, 60.8 years). No patient had an early surgical site infection or wound dehiscence, but 4 (2.8%) developed postoperative contact dermatitis (week 7, 1; week 4, 2; day 9, 1). Manifestations included eczema and pruritus, without local heat or wound discharge. All cases resolved without complications, including infection.Contact dermatitis occurred in 2.8% of patients who received liquid skin adhesive, and the symptoms differed from those of surgical site infection. Patients should be informed about the risk of contact dermatitis before applying a liquid skin adhesive.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Dermabond Prineo After Elective Orthopedic Surgery

The Dermabond Prineo skin closure system (Ethicon, Somerville, New Jersey) is a wound closure device that combines a 2-octyl cyanoacrylate liquid adhesive and a self-adhesive polyester mesh. Although cyanoacrylates traditionally have been associated with low rates of sensitization, allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to Dermabond products is being increasingly reported after orthopedic surgery. The authors describe the first case series of ACD to Dermabond Prineo where patch testing confirmed the diagnosis in all patients. Six patients who had suspected Dermabond Prineo ACD after lower limb orthopedic surgery were assessed. Of these patients, 5 had itching within 4 days of surgery and rash within 5 days. All 5 of these patients reported previous exposure to Dermabond products. All patients had removal of the adhesive and mesh earlier than planned and were treated with corticosteroids. In addition, 4 patients received systemic antibiotics; however, only 1 had a microbiologically confirmed superficial skin infection. In all patients, the dermatitis resolved within 2 weeks of dressing removal, with no adverse effect on the orthopedic outcome. Patch testing showed positive reactions to Dermabond Prineo glue for all patients. Orthopedic surgeons should be aware of the potential for ACD to Dermabond Prineo, especially among patients with previous exposure to Dermabond products. The authors discuss the risk factors for ACD to Dermabond Prineo in the orthopedic cohort and provide recommendations for prevention and management. [Orthopedics. 2020;43(6):e515-e522.].

A Prospective, Randomized and Controlled Study on Tissue Adhesive for Skin Incision in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background

The study focusing on the tissue adhesive in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was rare. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes and economic costs of tissue adhesive when acting as the adjunct to standard incision closure in TKA.

Patients and Methods

From September 2019 to November 2019, we prospectively enrolled the consecutive patients who underwent simultaneous bilateral TKA in our institute. The allocation using the tissue adhesive was done after the subcuticular suture in right knee first and another method was applied in the left knee automatically. The patients’ demographics, length of stay (LOS), times of dressing changes and incision-related cost, range of motion (ROM), incision-related complications and incision evaluation scores were recorded.

Results

Thirty-two patients were enrolled in this study and followed at two months after surgery. In the knees of tissue adhesive, the times of dressing change and patient scar assessment scores (PSAS) were significantly less than those standard skin closure (p=0.000; p=0.003). Although there were no significant differences of the delayed discharge, incision-related cost, ROM, incision-related complications and Vancouver scar score (VSS) between two groups, 65.6% (21/32) patients preferred the tissue adhesive and only 15.6% (5/32) patients preferred the standard incision closure.

Conclusion

Tissue adhesive could effectively reduce postoperative wound drainage and improve patients’ satisfaction rate with no difference in medical costs and ROM in TKA. The application of tissue adhesive and subcuticular sutures might be one safe and convenient method of skin closure in TKA.

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry

ChiCTR1900025730; Registered 6 September 2019.

A review of acrylates: Super glue, nail adhesives, and diabetic pump adhesives increasing sensitization risk in women and children

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a cutaneous type IV hypersensitivity immune reaction mounted against substances in contact with the skin to which the patient has been sensitized. ACD is common, affecting approximately 72 million Americans per year, and is more common in women. One common contact allergen group is acrylates, which are monomers that are polymerized in the making of glues, adhesives, and plastic materials. It is the monomers that are sensitizing, whereas the final polymers are inert. Acrylates were the 2012 Contact Allergen of the Year with the specific acrylate, isobornyl acrylate, being the 2020 Contact Allergen of the Year. This article reviews the history of acrylate use, epidemiology, and both known and emerging sources of acrylates resulting in ACD.

Tissue adhesive for wound closure in enhanced-recovery total hip arthroplasty: a prospective, randomized and controlled study

Background

We aimed to present our experience of adopting tissue adhesive as adjunct to standard wound closure in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and evaluate its performance.

Methods

From September 2019 to November 2019, we prospectively enrolled consecutive patients who underwent simultaneous bilateral THA in this randomized and controlled study. Standard wound closure was applied on one side of hip while additional tissue adhesive was applied on the other side at random. We collected and analyzed patients’ information, including age, gender, body mass index (BMI), diagnosis, postoperative length of stay (LOS), dressing changes, wound evaluation scores, wound-related cost and complications.

Results

Thirty patients with simultaneous bilateral THA were enrolled in this study. During the hospital stay, the times of dressing change in hips with tissue adhesive was significantly less than that in the other hips (p = 0.000). However, the wound-related cost in hips with tissue adhesive was significantly higher (p = 0.000). According to patients’ feedback at one-month follow-up, wound evaluation of hips with tissue adhesive was significantly better than the other hips (p = 0.004). Seventeen patients preferred tissue adhesive and only five patients preferred standard wound closure.

Conclusions

Tissue adhesive could significantly reduce wound drainage and increase patients’ satisfaction, which can be an ideal adjunct to standard wound closure in enhanced-recovery THA.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry; ChiCTR1900025730; Registered 6 September 2019.

Patch Testing Ingredients of Dermabond and Other Cyanoacrylate-Containing Adhesives

BACKGROUND

Cyanoacrylates are strong adhesives used for a variety of medical, industrial, and cosmetic applications and have been implicated as a cause of allergic contact dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to review our experience in patch testing with cyanoacrylates.

METHODS

We reviewed patch test results of 38 patients with a clinical history of contact dermatitis due to a cyanoacrylate-containing adhesive (mostly Dermabond). Testing used cyanoacrylates of >99% purity diluted to 10% to 30% in petrolatum (pet.), undiluted octyl cyanoacrylate, and/or Dermabond Mini or Advanced "as is." Patch tests were also performed with methacrylates, formaldehyde (a cyanoacrylate impurity), benzalkonium chloride, and cyanoacrylate polymerization inhibitors. Three patients were also tested with Dermabond Mini on abraded skin.

RESULTS

Commercial cyanoacrylate patch testing material (ethyl cyanoacrylate 10% pet.) detected 29% of Dermabond-allergic patients, whereas patch testing with octyl cyanoacrylate 10% pet. increased detection to 50%. Testing with higher concentrations and/or on abraded skin further increased yield. Thirteen (37%) of our 35 cyanoacrylate-allergic patients were also allergic to methacrylates or acrylates.

CONCLUSIONS

Octyl cyanoacrylate is the usual allergenic ingredient in Dermabond. Patch testing with high concentrations is often required. Testing Dermabond on abraded skin further improves diagnostic sensitivity by more closely simulating clinical use.

Tissue Adhesive for Wound Closure Reduces Immediate Postoperative Wound Dressing Changes After Primary TKA: A Randomized Controlled Study in Simultaneous Bilateral TKA

BACKGROUND

Prolonged wound drainage after TKA is associated with increased risk of infection. To decrease wound drainage, tissue adhesive has been suggested as an adjunct to wound closure after TKA; however, no studies of which we are aware have investigated the effect of tissue adhesive in a modern fast-track TKA setting.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of wound closure using a high-viscosity tissue adhesive in simultaneous bilateral TKA with respect to (1) postoperative wound drainage, measured as number of dressing changes in the first 72 hours postoperatively; and (2) wound healing assessed using the ASEPSIS score.

METHODS

Thirty patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral TKA were included in the study. The left knee was randomized to receive either standard three-layer closure with staples or the same closure supplemented with tissue adhesive with the opposite treatment used on the contralateral knee. One patient underwent a constrained TKA and underwent revision 2 days after the index procedure and was therefore excluded leaving 29 patients (58 knees) for analysis. Sixty-two percent (n = 18) were female. Mean age was 64 years (range, 42-78 years). Mean body mass index was 28 kg/m (range, 21-38 kg/m). Postoperative wound drainage was evaluated as drainage resulting in a dressing change. The wound dressing was changed if it was soaked to the borders of the absorbable dressing at any point. The nurses changing the dressing were blinded to treatment allocation up to the first dressing change. The number of dressing changes during the first 72 hours postoperatively was recorded. The secondary study endpoint was the ASEPSIS score, which is a clinical score assessing wound healing. ASEPSIS score, measured by a nurse not involved in the treatment, was compared between the groups at 3 weeks followup.

RESULTS

Knees with tissue adhesive underwent fewer dressing changes (median, 0; interquartile range [IQR], 0-1) compared with the contralateral knee (IQR, 1-2; difference of medians, one dressing change; p = 0.001). A total of 59% of knees in the intervention group did not undergo any dressing changes before discharge, whereas 24% of knees in the control group did not undergo any dressing changes before discharge (p = 0.02). The knees in the intervention group and the control group did not differ with respect to ASEPSIS score at 3 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Tissue adhesive as an adjunct to standard wound closure after primary TKA reduced the number of dressing changes after surgery, but did not change the appearance or healing of the wound at 3 weeks based on the ASEPSIS scores. Whether the small differences observed here in terms of the number of dressing changes performed will justify the additional costs associated with using this product or whether there are other differences associated with the use of tissue adhesive that may prove important such as patient preferences or longer term differences in wound healing or infection should be studied in the future.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, therapeutic study.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Mastisol Adhesive Used for Skin Closure in Orthopedic Surgery: A Case Report

We report on a rare case of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from Mastisol liquid adhesive. We are aware of a few reports in the medical literature, but none describes an allergic reaction during the third exposure to the offending agent. Our patient was a 20-year-old Caucasian man with a history of cerebral palsy spastic hemiplegia who underwent single-event multilevel soft-tissue surgery to optimize function of his left upper extremity. He developed a severe cutaneous allergic reaction after his third exposure to Mastisol. He was subsequently admitted to the inpatient service and managed without further complications by a multidisciplinary team comprising orthopedics, pediatrics, and dermatology. We discuss the etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of this entity, and we also review relevant available literature on the subject. We aim at creating further awareness of allergic reactions because of exposure to available skin-prepping and wound-dressing agents.

Contact Dermatitis Reaction to 2-Octyl Cyanoacrylate Following 3 Orthopedic Procedures

Two-octyl cyanoacrylate is a popular skin adhesive used for closing surgical incisions. Since Food and Drug Administration approval in 1998, the few reports of adverse reactions following its use have primarily been limited to the nonorthopedic literature. The authors present a case series of contact dermatitis associated with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate following orthopedic surgery and a review of the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of this complication. All 3 patients presented with blistering around their incisions within 2 weeks of surgery and responded to treatment involving removal of the offending agent and use of oral diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine and topical triamcinolone. One case was complicated by a draining hematoma, requiring irrigation and debridement. Complete resolution occurred in all cases. This case series is intended to increase awareness in the orthopedic community of allergic contact dermatitis to 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and its appropriate treatment. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(2):e289-e291.].

Characterizing the Diagnosis and Treatment of Allergic Contact Dermatitis to 2-Octyl Cyanoacrylate Used for Skin Closure in Elective Orthopedic Surgery

BACKGROUND

While studies have shown that postoperative wound complications can predispose to deep infection following orthopedic surgery, the best form of skin closure has not been elucidated. Furthermore, the unique risks and benefits of each type of wound closure have not been studied. The goal of this study is to present the diagnosis and treatment of patients with allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from 2-octyl cyanoacrylate, a skin adhesive commonly used in wound closure.

METHODS

Twenty-nine patients with ACD to 2-octyl cyanoacrylate (Prineo, Ethicon, NJ) following elective orthopedic surgeries from 2013 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed; this occurred in 29 of 6088 units of Prineo used at our institution, for an estimated incidence of 0.5%. Nineteen patients (66%) had knee operations. Mean age was 55 years (range, 15-92 years). We classified patients by symptom severity and treatment requirements into mild, moderate, and severe reactions.

RESULTS

Most reactions were moderate (48%) or severe (38%) reactions. Mean time from surgery to diagnosis was 11.8 days (range, 2-42 days). All patients underwent removal of the Prineo dressing and daily dressing changes with a specific protocol. Twenty patients (69%) received oral antihistamines, 16 patients (55%) required topical corticosteroids, and 5 patients (17%) required oral corticosteroids. All cases of ACD ultimately resolved at a mean of 22 days (range, 13-56 days) postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

2-Octyl cyanoacrylate skin adhesive occurs in an estimated 0.5% of cases and can lead to severe postoperative ACD when used following orthopedic operations. However, with early recognition and appropriate treatment, patients' symptoms resolve without a significant impact on wound healing.

Allergic or Hypersensitivity Reactions to Orthopaedic Implants

Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions to orthopaedic implants can pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Although 10% to 15% of the population exhibits cutaneous sensitivity to metals, deep-tissue reactions to metal implants are comparatively rare. Nevertheless, the link between cutaneous sensitivity and clinically relevant deep-tissue reactions is unclear. Most reactions to orthopaedic devices are type IV, or delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions. The most commonly implicated allergens are nickel, cobalt, and chromium; however, reactions to nonmetal compounds, such as polymethyl methacrylate, antibiotic spacers, and suture materials, have also been reported. Symptoms of hypersensitivity to implants are nonspecific and include pain, swelling, stiffness, and localized skin reactions. Following arthroplasty, internal fixation, or implantation of similarly allergenic devices, the persistence or early reappearance of inflammatory symptoms should raise suspicions for hypersensitivity. However, hypersensitivity is a diagnosis of exclusion. Infection, as well as aseptic loosening, particulate synovitis, instability, and other causes of failure must first be eliminated.

Use of 2-Octyl Cyanoacrylate Adhesive and Polyester Mesh for Wound Closure in Primary Knee Arthroplasty

Wound closure in primary knee arthroplasty is important both for surgical success, by minimizing the risk of wound complications and infection, and for patient satisfaction with wound care and cosmesis. This article reports the use of a topical self-adhering, pressure-sensitive polyester mesh combined with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate adhesive for final skin closure of primary knee arthroplasty without external staples or sutures. During a 2.5-year period, 360 consecutive primary knee arthroplasty procedures (321 total knee arthroplasty procedures and 39 partial knee arthroplasty procedures) performed by 1 surgeon at 1 institution were reviewed. For all primary arthroplasty procedures, closure was performed with a standardized method. Final skin closure was performed with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate adhesive and polyester mesh. Patients returned at 6 weeks and 1 year postoperatively. The study found a 0.8% rate of superficial wound complications, no cases of dehiscence, no wound complications requiring operative irrigation and debridement, and no prosthetic joint infections. One patient had a reaction consistent with previously reported localized contact dermatitis that was believed to be related to the 2-octyl cyanoacrylate adhesive. In 2 cases, treatment with cephalexin was required, in 1 case for 2 small suture abscesses and in the other case for periincisional cellulitis. All wound complications resolved by 6 weeks. The results showed that 2-octyl cyanoacrylate adhesive and polyester mesh can be used successfully in the setting of primary knee arthroplasty for closure of high-tension knee arthroplasty wounds. This series found a 0.8% rate of superficial wound complications, no cases of dehiscence, and no infections. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(5):e784-e787.].

Surgery-Related Contact Dermatitis: A Review of Potential Irritants and Allergens

Surgical procedures utilize an increasing number of medical products including antiseptics, anesthetics, gloves, suture materials, tissue adhesives, topical antibiotics, and bandages. Many of these products have irritant potential. Allergic contact dermatitis has also been reported. This review covers preoperative, operative, and postoperative exposures that may result in contact dermatitis. Testing with standard patch panels such as T.R.U.E. Test and the North American Contact Dermatitis Group 65 allergen series does not evaluate for all relevant contactants. A thorough understanding of potential exposures is vital to effectively evaluate a patient with surgery-related contact dermatitis. A systematic approach is needed to ensure that standard patch panels and supplementary patches adequately address each encountered contactant.

Allergic Dermatitis After Total Knee Arthroplasty Using the Prineo Wound-Closure Device: A Report of Three Cases

CASE

Three patients who underwent uncomplicated total knee arthroplasty with use of the Prineo (Ethicon) wound-closure system had development of allergic contact dermatitis. All patients were started on Keflex (cephalexin), and two were started on topical corticosteroid. In all patients, the reaction resolved within weeks.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, the present report describes the first case series of patients in whom allergic contact dermatitis developed in association with the use of the Prineo wound-closure system during orthopaedic procedures. The presentation can range from blistering to erythematous papules and vesicles to crusted plaques that resolve with Keflex and topical corticosteroid cream.

[Adverse reactions to metal orthopedic implants after knee arthroplasty]

Based on several clinical examples, the range of adverse or hypersensitive reactions to metal implants especially after total knee replacement are presented. In general, we found the patients to generally be women who present with pain, swelling, and local or generalized eczema. Some also present with early aseptic loosening mainly in the first 4 years after implantation. For these patients, a detailed allergy-specific history should be taken and a patch test should be performed; if necessary, blood ion levels should be evaluated to exclude cobaltism. Before revision surgery and exchange of the implant we always perform arthroscopic inspection to obtain biopsies for microbiology and histopathology. Using the Consensus Classification a good evaluation for planning revision with the different implant options is possible.