Nerve anastomosis with glue: comparative histologic study of fibrin and cyanoacrylate glue

J Reconstr Microsurg. 2003 Jan;19(1):17-20. doi: 10.1055/s-2003-37186.

Abstract

The authors report the results of a comparative experimental nerve study, using a biologic tissue glue (fibrin) and a synthetic glue (2-cyanoacrylate) in a rat model. A tension-free repair is necessary with the use of fibrin glue, or gapping may occur, thus limiting the use of the agent in promoting re-neurotization. In addition, the human origin of fibrin and thrombin allow for the possibility of viral transmission. The aim of the study was to verify if the synthetic glue is a viable alternative, or whether it causes cellular and tissue lesions. Their main finding was that the cyanoacrylate causes a foreign-body inflammatory reaction and retractile fibrosis, often reducing the nerve diameter up to two-thirds. Cyanoacrylate glue is thus not recommended for peripheral nerve repair.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cyanoacrylates / adverse effects
  • Cyanoacrylates / therapeutic use*
  • Fibrin Tissue Adhesive / therapeutic use*
  • Fibrosis
  • Foreign-Body Reaction / chemically induced
  • Male
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Sciatic Nerve / injuries*
  • Sciatic Nerve / pathology
  • Tissue Adhesives / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Cyanoacrylates
  • Fibrin Tissue Adhesive
  • Tissue Adhesives
  • glubran