An anaphylactic reaction to topical fibrin glue

Relationship between Tryptase and Hypotension in Anaphylaxis during Anesthesia

INTRODUCTION

Hypotension is a cardiovascular symptom that appears at the onset of anaphylaxis. It is considered an important factor as it affects the severity of anaphylaxis; however, its details remain to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the characteristics of hypotension at the onset of anaphylaxis during anesthesia, along with the relationship between hypotension, tryptase and histamine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The minimum systolic blood pressures of patients diagnosed with anaphylaxis using the clinical diagnostic criteria of the World Allergy Organization guidelines were extracted from electronic anesthesia records. We analyzed changes in tryptase and histamine that were measured after the onset of anaphylaxis. We analyzed the relationship of tryptase and histamine with the minimum systolic blood pressure and the severity of anaphylaxis.

RESULTS

Of 55,996 patients, 25 were diagnosed with anaphylaxis during anesthesia (0.045%). Among these patients, the minimum systolic blood pressure was less than 90 mmHg. Furthermore, the minimum systolic blood pressure was inversely correlated with tryptase levels immediately to 1 hour, and 2 to 4 hours after the onset of anaphylaxis. The minimum systolic blood pressure was inversely correlated with the severity of anaphylaxis. The severity of anaphylaxis was positively correlated with tryptase levels immediately to 1 hour, and 2 to 4 hours after the onset of anaphylaxis.

CONCLUSION

Hypotension tended to reflect the severity of anaphylaxis. Tryptase is an adjunct in the diagnosis of hypotension and may be a useful indicator of the severity of anaphylaxis. A larger-scale study is needed to validate these results.

Bioadhesive Technology Platforms

Bioadhesives have emerged as transformative and versatile tools in healthcare, offering the ability to attach tissues with ease and minimal damage. These materials present numerous opportunities for tissue repair and biomedical device integration, creating a broad landscape of applications that have captivated clinical and scientific interest alike. However, fully unlocking their potential requires multifaceted design strategies involving optimal adhesion, suitable biological interactions, and efficient signal communication. In this Review, we delve into these pivotal aspects of bioadhesive design, highlight the latest advances in their biomedical applications, and identify potential opportunities that lie ahead for bioadhesives as multifunctional technology platforms.

Fibrin-based haemostatic agents for reducing blood loss in adult liver resection

BACKGROUND

Liver resection is the optimal treatment for selected benign and malignant liver tumours, but it can be associated with significant blood loss. Numerous anaesthetic and surgical techniques have been developed to reduce blood loss and improve perioperative outcomes. One such technique is the application of topical fibrin-based haemostatic agents (FBHAs) to the resection surface. There is no standard practice for FBHA use, and a variety of commercial agents and devices are available, as well as non-FBHAs (e.g. collagen-based agents). The literature is inconclusive on the effectiveness of these methods and on the clinical benefits of their routine use.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of fibrin-based haemostatic agents in reducing intraoperative blood loss in adults undergoing liver resection.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group (CHBG) Controlled Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, Science Citation Index Expanded, and Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science up to 20 January 2023. We also searched online trial registries, checked the reference lists of all primary studies, and contacted the authors of included trials for additional published or unpublished trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We considered for inclusion all randomised clinical trials evaluating FBHAs versus no topical intervention or non-FBHAs, irrespective of publication type, publication status, language of publication, and outcomes reported. Eligible participants could have any liver pathology and be undergoing major or minor liver resections through open or laparoscopic surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened the results of the literature search and used data extraction forms to collate the results. We expressed dichotomous outcome results as risk ratios (RRs) and continuous outcome results as mean differences (MDs), each with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). We used a random-effects model for the main analyses. Our primary outcomes were perioperative mortality, serious adverse events, haemostatic efficacy, and health-related quality of life. Our secondary outcomes were efficacy as sealant, adverse events considered non-serious, operating time, and length of hospital stay. We assessed the certainty of the evidence with GRADE and presented results in two summary of findings tables.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 22 trials (2945 participants) evaluating FBHAs versus no intervention or non-FBHAs; 19 trials with 2642 participants provided data for the meta-analyses. Twelve trials reported commercial funding, one trial reported no financial support, and nine trials provided no information on funding. Below we present the most clinically relevant outcome results, also displayed in our summary of findings table. Fibrin-based haemostatic agents versus no intervention Six trials (1001 participants) compared FBHAs with no intervention. One trial was at low risk of bias in all five domains, and all other trials were at high or unclear risk of bias in at least one domain. Two trials were at high risk of bias related to blinding. It is unclear if FBHAs compared with no intervention have an effect on perioperative mortality (RR 2.58, 95% CI 0.89 to 7.44; 4 trials, 782 participants), serious adverse events (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.05; 4 trials, 782 participants), postoperative transfusion (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.40; 5 trials, 864 participants), reoperation (RR 2.92, 95% CI 0.58 to 14.61; 2 trials, 612 participants), or postoperative bile leak (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.48; 4 trials, 782 participants), as the certainty of evidence was very low for all these outcomes. Fibrin-based haemostatic agents versus non-fibrin-based haemostatic agents Sixteen trials (1944 participants) compared FBHAs with non-FBHAs. All trials had at least one domain at high or unclear risk of bias. Twelve trials were at high risk of bias related to blinding. It is unclear if FBHAs compared with non-FBHAs have an effect on perioperative mortality (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.72; 11 trials, 1436 participants), postoperative transfusion (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.25; 7 trials, 599 participants), reoperation (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.90; 3 trials, 358 participants), or postoperative bile leak (RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.60 to 2.21; 9 trials, 1115 participants), as the certainty of evidence was very low for all these outcomes. FBHAs compared with non-FBHAs may have little or no effect on the risk of serious adverse events (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.03; 9 trials, 1176 participants; low-certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence for the outcomes in both comparisons (FBHAs versus no intervention and FBHAs versus non-FBHAs) was of very low certainty (or low certainty in one instance) and cannot justify the routine use of FBHAs to reduce blood loss in adult liver resection. While the meta-analysis showed a reduced risk of reoperation with FBHAs compared with non-FBHAs, the analysis was confounded by the small number of trials reporting the event and the risk of bias in all these trials. Future trials should focus on the use of FBHAs in people undergoing liver resection who are at particularly high risk of bleeding. Investigators should evaluate clinically meaningful and patient-important outcomes and follow the SPIRIT and CONSORT statements.

Intraoperative anaphylaxis due to aprotinin after local application of fibrin sealant diagnosed by skin tests and basophil activation tests: a case report

Background

There are few cases of anaphylaxis after local application of fibrin sealant diagnosed by skin tests.

Case presentation

A 49-year-old woman underwent partial lung resection under general anesthesia. Anesthesia was induced uneventfully. Shortly after applying absorbable suture reinforcement felt that contained fibrin sealant, her systolic blood pressure fell to approximately 70 mmHg, along with facial flushing. Anaphylaxis was diagnosed based on the clinical symptoms and high serum tryptase levels. Three months after the event, skin tests were performed with all agents and were positive only for fibrin sealant vial no. 2, whose main component is aprotinin. Subsequently, basophil activation tests using fibrin sealant vial no. 2 and pure aprotinin demonstrated that the causative agent was likely aprotinin.

Conclusions

We diagnosed aprotinin-induced anaphylaxis using skin tests and basophil activation tests. The occurrence of anaphylaxis should be considered when changes in vital signs are observed after the use of fibrin sealant.

Review of topical gelatin-based haemostatic agents; an insidious culprit of intraoperative anaphylaxis?

BACKGROUND

An under-recognized complication of gelatin-based haemostatic agents is their potential to cause anaphylactic reactions. This review aims to collate and analyse case in the literature of intraoperative anaphylaxis secondary to locally applied haemostatic agents.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed on databases Medline, Embase, Pubmed and ProQuest. A total of 7671 articles were reviewed from title and abstract. After exclusion criteria and duplicates removed, 19 articles with 21 cases were included for analysis. Data extracted from each of the articles included patient demographics, haemostatic agent used, surgery type, known allergies and any objective evidence of hypersensitivity post anaphylactic episode, that is tryptase levels, IgE levels, skin prick testing.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven percent of cases involved patients <18 years of age; 57% of cases involved spinal surgery; 100% of cases displayed objective evidence of hypersensitivity (tryptase levels, bovine or porcine IgE levels, or skin prick testing). Thirty-three percent of patients had exposure preoperatively to a known agent causing anaphylaxis or allergy which would preclude the use of a gelatin-based haemostat. These products included vaccines, spam meats, red meat, Jell-O and CollaPlug. Gelatin-based haemostat agents included Floseal, Gelfoam, Surgiflo, fibrin glue, Avitene, haemofibrine sponge, topical bovine thrombin and thrombin-soaked gelatin.

CONCLUSION

Increased awareness of allergy to gelatin-based haemostats for surgical and anaesthetic is imperative, with 33% of cases having a known contraindication to gelatin-based haemostat. This review highlights important aspects in the pre-operative patient history and post-event patient investigation that could assist anaesthetists and surgeons in the prevention of future events.

Comparative epidemiology of suspected perioperative hypersensitivity reactions

Suspected perioperative hypersensitivity reactions are rare but contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of surgical procedures. Recent publications have highlighted the differences between countries concerning the respective risk of different drugs, and changes in patterns of causal agents and the emergence of new allergens. This review summarises recent information on the epidemiology of perioperative hypersensitivity reactions, with specific consideration of differences between geographic areas for the most frequently involved offending agents.

Safety of Cultivated Limbal Epithelial Stem Cell Transplantation for Human Corneal Regeneration

Ex vivo cultivated limbal stem cell transplantation is a promising technique for the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency. While the results of the clinical trials have been extensively reported since the introduction of the technique in 1997, little has been reported regarding the potential health risks associated with production processes and transplantation techniques. Culture procedures require the use of animal and/or human-derived products, which carry the potential of introducing toxic or infectious agents through contamination with known or unknown additives. Protocols vary widely, and the risks depend on the local institutional methods. Good manufacturing practice and xeno-free culture protocols could reduce potential health risks but are not yet a common practice worldwide. In this review, we focus on the safety of both autologous- and allogeneic-cultivated limbal stem cell transplantation, with respect to culture processes, surgical approaches, and postoperative strategies.

Use of Tissue Glues in Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery: A Cost Comparison

Background:

Post-operative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are a common complication of endoscopic pituitary surgery and account for a significant proportion of hospital costs associated with this procedure. Tisseel® is a tissue glue commonly used as an adjunct in dural repair but is not optimal for this purpose. DuraSeal® has several properties advantageous for dural repair but is not widely accepted in Canada partly due to its increased cost.

Objective:

A cost analysis of DuraSeal® versus Tisseel® in endoscopic pituitary surgery.

Methods:

A cost analysis was performed based on typical endoscopic pituitary surgery cases performed at our tertiary care institution. Operating room, hospital admission, and surgical sealant costs were obtained directly while estimates of patient recovery time and post-operative CSF leak rates were based on consensus values reported in the literature. Outcomes were reported for various possible clinical scenarios of sealant use.

Results:

In a model where surgical sealant is employed only in high-risk cases, use of DuraSeal® allows for a yearly cost savings of at least $4486.72. If surgical sealant is used in all cases, regular use of DuraSeal® versus Tisseel® either marginally reduces yearly costs or increases them by a maximum of $7619.25, depending on the case volume and estimated post-operative CSF leak rate.

Conclusion:

In most clinical scenarios, use of DuraSeal® in endoscopic pituitary surgery may reduce overall yearly hospital costs compared to Tisseel®.

A NOVEL TGD®DEVICE TO GENERATE THERAPEUTIC PLATELET GLUE

The surgical applications of platelet glue (a mixture of platelet gel and fibrin glue) are so far particularly prominent in plastic and orthopedic surgeries. It is shown to accelerate bone fracture and wound healing in many clinical practices. Over the years, one of the components used to prepare platelet glue (PG), thrombin, could only be obtained from pooled human plasma or bovine blood after repeated centrifugation processes. The quantity from this thrombin source is limited and its process deemed time consuming and the risk of infection does exist. Here, we present a stand alone device (TGD®, Thrombin Generation Device) which could prepare large quantities of human thrombin from autologous or single donor allogeneic plasma donations under sterile conditions. With this specific thrombin product, we could easily further mix with platelet and fibrinogen to prepare the platelet glue. PG not only contains various growth factors such as PDGF, TGF-β which are believed to be beneficial to wound healing but also increase the sticky strength in different operations. In this study, the reconstruction efficacy of PG combined with osteoconductive scaffold, biphasic calcium phosphate scaffold, for a post-operative calvarial bone defect was evaluated.

Carbon dioxide laser-assisted endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy with primary mucosal closure

OBJECTIVES

Carbon dioxide laser-assisted endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy (ECPM) has emerged as a viable therapy for dysphagia. The risks of the procedure include pharyngoesophageal perforation and mediastinitis, which may discourage adoption of this technique. To address these complications, we examined outcomes of ECPM with primary mucosal closure.

METHODS

A case series of 7 patients who underwent ECPM between 2006 and 2008 were reviewed for length of operation, length of hospitalization, postoperative complications, and outcomes by use of the M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Index (MDADI) and the Functional Outcome Swallowing Scale (FOSS). The results were compared to those of a control group of 7 patients treated during the same period via open cricopharyngeal myotomy.

RESULTS

All patients who had ECPM were treated successfully without complications. The operative times averaged 128 minutes. The hospitalization averaged 2.1 days. Statistically significant improvements in swallowing were seen (MDADI score from 51.3 to 77.7, p < 0.0006; FOSS score from 3.7 to 1.3, p < 0.0005), and were similar to those in the patients who had the open procedure (FOSS score from 3.0 to 1.0, p <0.006). Trends toward decreased blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a lower complication rate were observed in the patients who had ECPM.

CONCLUSIONS

ECPM is beneficial as a primary treatment for cricopharyngeal dysfunction. Closure of the mucosal defect may help reduce the incidence of postoperative cervical emphysema and mediastinitis, and does not appear to compromise functional outcome.

[Historical review and future orientations of the conventional vascular microanastomoses]

Microvascular surgery has become an important method for reconstructing surgical defects due to trauma, tumors or after burn. The most important factor for successful free flap transfer is a well-executed anastomosis. The time needed to perform the anastomosis and the failure rate are not negligible despite the high level of operator's experience. During the history, many alternatives were tried to help the microsurgeon and to reduce the complications. A Medline literature search was performed to find articles dealing with non-suture methods of microvascular anastomosis. Many historical books were also included. The non-suture techniques can be divided into four groups based on the used mechanism of sutures: double intubation including tubes and stents, intubation-eversion including simple rings, double eversion including staples and double rings, and wall adjustement with adhesives or laser. All these techniques were able to produce a faster and easier microvascular anastomosis. Nevertheless, disadvantages of the suturless techniques include toxicity, high cost, leakage or aneurysm formation. More refinement is needed before their widespread adoption. Thus, laser-assisted microvascular anastomosis using 1,9 μm diode laser appeared to be a safe and reliable help for the microsurgeon and may be further developed in the near future.

Reduction of the closure time of postoperative enterocutaneous fistulas with fibrin sealant

AIM: To assess whether the use of fibrin sealant shortens the closure time of postoperative enterocutaneous fistulas (ECFs).

METHODS: The prospective case-control study included 70 patients with postoperative ECFs with an output of < 500 mL/d, a fistulous tract of > 2 cm and without any local complication. They were divided into study (n = 23) and control groups (n = 47). Esophageal, gastric and colocutaneous fistulas were monitored under endoscopic visualization, which also allowed fibrin glue application directly through the external hole. Outcome variables included closure time, time to resume oral feeding and morbidity related to nutritional support.

RESULTS: There were no differences in mean age, fistula output, and follow-up. Closure-time for all patients of the study group was 12.5 ± 14.2 d and 32.5 ± 17.9 d for the control group (P < 0.001), and morbidity related to nutritional support was 8.6% and 42.5%, respectively (P < 0.01). In patients with colonic fistulas, complete closure occurred 23.5 ± 19.5 d after the first application of fibrin glue, and spontaneous closure was observed after 36.2 ± 22.8 d in the control group (P = 0.36). Recurrences were observed in 2 patients because of residual disease. One patient of each group died during follow-up as a consequence of septic complications related to parenteral nutrition.

CONCLUSION: Closure time was significantly reduced with the use of fibrin sealant, and oral feeding was resumed faster. We suggest the use of fibrin sealant for the management of stable enterocutaneous fistulas.

Influence of calcium chloride and aprotinin in the in vivo biological performance of a composite combining biphasic calcium phosphate granules and fibrin sealant

Highly bioactive biomaterials have been developed to replace bone grafts in orthopedic revision and maxillofacial surgery for bone augmentation. A mouldable, self-hardening material can be obtained by combining TricOs Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Granules and Tissucol Fibrin Sealant. Two components, calcium chloride and antifibrinolytic agents (aprotinin), are essential for the stability of the fibrin clot. The ingrowth of cells in composites combining sealants without calcium chloride or with a low concentration of aprotinin was evaluated in vivo in an experiment on rabbits. Bone colonization was compared using TricOs alone or with the composite made from TricOs and the standard fibrin sealant. Without the addition of calcium chloride, the calcium ions released by the ceramic component interacted with the components of the sealant too late to stabilize the clot. With a low concentration of aprotinin, the degradation of the clot occurred more quickly, leading to the absence of a scaffold on which the bone cells could colonize the composite. Our results indicate that a stable fibrin scaffold is crucial for bone colonization. The low calcium chloride and low aprotinin groups have shown lower bone growth. Further studies will be necessary to determine the minimal amount of antifibrinolytic agent (aprotinin) necessary to allow the same level of osteogenic activity as the TricOs-fibrin glue composite.

Underlay Tympanoplasty with Laser Tissue Welding

We investigated the feasibility of using laser tissue welding techniques to perform transcanal underlay tympanoplasty. We used 10 temporal bones obtained from human cadavers. After creating a subtotal tympanic membrane perforation, we introduced harvested periosteum through the perforation and used laser tissue welding to secure the periosteum graft in place in an underlay fashion. The procedure was performed via a transcanal approach and did not require middle ear packing. Immediately after the graft had been placed, we qualitatively tested its integrity with a blunt probe. The graft was as strong as the native cadaver tympanic membrane in all 10 cases. We conclude that laser transcanal underlay tympanoplasty is a feasible and effective method of repairing a tympanic membrane. The ultimate goal is to develop a technique that will allow physicians to routinely perform underlay tympanoplasty on moderately sized perforations in an office setting.

Glutamine Administration Enhances the Healing of Lung Parenchymal Injuries and Reduces Air Leakage in Rats

Beneficial effects of glutamine on wound healing are well known. Parenchymal injuries in the lung cause air leakage that resolves with wound healing. We aimed to determine the effect of glutamine on the healing of lung injuries. Wistar albino female rats were randomized in three groups. One group (control, n = 7) received intraperitoneal injection of 0.9% sodium chloride (1.5 ml /day), while other group (GLN, n = 7) received glutamine (1.5 g/kg/day), beginning two days prior to the operation for total four days. After thoracotomy, a lung parenchymal lesion was made with a scalpel in the right upper lobe. Only thoracotomy was performed to sham group (n = 4). Air leakage was observed in the isolated lungs of control group, but not GLN and sham groups, at 5 cm H(2)O of positive airway pressure (p < 0.001). The threshold of positive airway pressure for air leakage was 4.85 +/- 0.37 and 19.42 +/- 4.54 cm H(2)O for control and GLN groups, respectively (p < 0.001). For measurement of collagen content in the healing parenchyma, digital images were processed to calculate the stained area percentage (SAP). SAP for immature collagen, a marker for wound healing, was 0.36 +/- 0.18% and 1.48 +/- 0.83% (p = 0.02) in control and GLN groups, respectively, but no significant difference was noted in SAP for mature collagen. The grade of inflammation was not significantly different between control and GLN groups. We conclude that glutamine enhances lung parenchymal healing by increasing immature collagen secretion.

Anaphylaxis to aprotinin in fibrin sealant

A 50-year-old man with chronic otitis media was admitted to our hospital for investigation of lung cancer. He had received repeated instillations of fibrin sealant (Bolheal) in myringoplasty 7 times over 12 months. During the lower lobectomy, soon after fibrin sealant was applied to seal bronchopleural fistulas, systolic blood pressure decreased to 60 mmHg. Treatment with epinephrine and dopamine was required until his condition improved 2 days later. The specific IgE antibody was detected for the solution for fibrinogen and factor XIII containing bovine aprotinin. Cross-reactivity between purified aprotinin and the solution was noted by competitive ELISA inhibition tests.

In vivo biological performance of composites combining micro-macroporous biphasic calcium phosphate granules and fibrin sealant

INTRODUCTION

Fibrin glues are currently used by surgeons and can facilitate the handling of biomaterials. Combining fibrin glue with calcium phosphate bioceramics gives a mouldable composite that cements the granules into the implantation site. In addition to the mechanical aspect of the composite, it has been suggested that the mixture also promotes wound healing. These human blood derivatives contain natural (aprotinin) or synthetic (tranexamic acid) antifibrinolytic substances. We compared the bioactivity of two composites combining calcium phosphate granules with two different types of fibrin glue, one with aprotinin and the other with tranexamic acid.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The composite was composed of fibrin glue (Tissucol) and 1 to 2 mm granules of biphasic calcium phosphate granules (MBCP) with a volume ratio of 1 for 2. Bone cavities were drilled in 12 New Zealand rabbits and filled with a composite with aprotinin-fibrin glue on the right condyle and one with tranexamic acid-fibrin glue on the left condyle. The rabbits were randomized into two groups: 3 and 6 weeks of delay. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and image analysis were performed.

RESULTS

No adverse reactions were observed in either sample. Bony ingrowth associated with bioceramic resorption by osteoclastic TRAP-positive cells was noted. No significant difference was observed between the two composites. The bony ingrowth and ceramic resorption were qualitatively and quantitatively similar with both composites.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that the choice of a natural (aprotinin) or synthetic (tranexamic acid) antifibrinolytic agent in the fibrin sealant associated with calcium phosphate granules and used as a bone substitute had no effect on the bioactivity of the composite. It remained efficient in bone reconstruction, no adverse effects were observed, and the bony ingrowth was qualitatively and quantitatively equivalent with the two types of fibrin sealant.

Early Postoperative Efficacy of Fibrin Glue in Face Lifts: A Prospective Randomized Trial

Fibrin glue is increasingly finding use in plastic surgery at the clinical and basic science level. The authors conducted a prospective, nonblinded, randomized, controlled trial in 30 patients undergoing face lifts to examine the efficacy of fibrin glue in reducing postoperative wound drainage, hematomas, and, in particular, the degree of ecchymosis and edema at 24 hours and at 8 days. Patients were their own controls and were randomized to have the glue on one side of their face only to compare the glued and unglued sides. The patients ranged in age from 42 to 72 years (mean age, 60 years). There was one major hematoma requiring surgical evacuation. In the remaining 29 patients, the mean drainage on the glued side was 26 ml, compared with 33.5 ml on the control, unglued side. This difference was statistically significant numerically (p = 0.037) but was not thought to be surgically significant. Comparing scores among grades of hematomas, ecchymosis, and edema, there were minimal differences between the glued and unglued sides. This study suggests that fibrin glue may not be as beneficial as previously thought in reducing ecchymosis and edema in the early postoperative period after face lifts, and its future role is discussed.

Forty Years of Clinical Aprotinin Use: A Review of 124 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Since its clinical introduction, the anaphylactic potential of aprotinin has been a major concern. World wide, its use is expanding so there is an increased chance that patients have reexposure from various sources. The risk of anaphylaxis is approximately 2.8% in reexposed patients. From 1963 to 2003, 124 cases of aprotinin-induced anaphylaxis were reported in 61 publications. Eleven patients died. The reexposure interval was less than 3 months in 72% (38 of 53 patients). This review looks at the profile of patients at risk so preventive measures may be taken. Past and future exposures have to be taken into account before any aprotinin administration.

Reduction of Bone Resorption by the Application of Fibrin Glue in the Reconstruction of the Alveolar Cleft

A major complication in 30% to 75% of cases of surgical treatment of alveolar cleft is resorption of the bone graft. A treatment alternative is the application of fibrin glue, which has the capacity to favor the integration of the graft. The main objective of the study was to evaluate if the use of the fibrin glue reduces bone resorption when it is applied locally. The authors designed a randomized clinical trial. Patients were divided into two groups: group 1, fibrin glue; and group 2, control. Pre- and postoperative graft volume, bone density, bone quality (Lekholm and Zarb, and Norton and Gamble classifications), and postoperative complications were evaluated. The follow-up for all patients was 3 months after discharge. Twenty-seven patients were surgically treated, 13 in group 1 and 14 in group 2. Group 1 had increased graft volume compared with group 2 (64.32 cm v 21.70 cm; P < 0.0001). Bone density was higher in group 1 than in group 2 (396.57 v 245.68; P > 0.076). Bone quality was type 1, 2 and 3 and 4 in group 1. Resorption in group 2 was 62.26%; in group 1, it was 29.72% (P > 0.081). The observed complications were infection and dehiscence of sutures (P > 0.537). The authors conclude that the fibrin glue significantly diminishes bone resorption, allowing improved graft integration and quality.

Fibrin Sealants and Glues

Fibrin sealants and fibrin glues have become effective instruments in the care of surgical patients. They have been used as an adjunct to hemostasis, wound healing, tissue adhesion, and drug delivery. In cardiac surgery, fibrin glues have emerged as valuable tools to improve hemostasis, decreased blood transfusions, improve tissue handling, and pretreat vascular grafts. Fibrin glues and sealants are now available commercially in the United States. This article will review the history, pharmacology, uses, and toxicity of fibrin sealants and fibrin glues.

Non-suture methods of vascular anastomosis

BACKGROUND

The main aim of performing a vascular anastomosis is to achieve maximal patency rates. An important factor to achieve that goal is to minimize damage to the vessel walls. Sutures inevitably induce vascular wall damage, which influences the healing of the anastomosis. Over time, several alternatives to sutures have become available.

METHODS

A Medline literature search was performed to locate English, German and French language articles pertinent to non-suture methods of vascular anastomosis. Manual cross-referencing was also performed and many historical articles were included.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The non-suture techniques can be categorized into five groups based on the materials used: rings, clips, adhesives, stents and laser welding. With all these techniques a faster and less traumatic anastomosis can be made compared with sutures. However, each device is associated with technique-related complications. As a consequence, suturing continues to be the standard approach. The disadvantages of the non-suture techniques include: rigidity and a non-compliant anastomosis with rings; toxicity, leakage and aneurysm formation with adhesives; early occlusion with stents; cost, reduced strength in larger-sized vessels and demand for surgical skills with laser welding. Further refinement is needed before widespread adoption of these techniques can occur. Clips, however, may be particularly promising but long-term evaluation is required.

The use of aerosolized fibrin glue in face-lift surgery

The purpose of this study was to report the use of aerosolized fibrin glue in face-lift surgery. A prospective study was conducted of 48 patients undergoing face-lift surgery sequentially assigned into two groups. The first 24 patients underwent face lifts without glue and the next 24 patients with the use of aerosolized fibrin glue. One surgeon (J.P.F.) performed all the face lifts using the same technique. Drains were only used in those patients who did not receive fibrin glue. The amount of bruising and edema was compared in the two groups, as was the incidence of complications, such as hematomas. Operating time was also assessed in the two groups. The patients in whom glue was used had significantly less bruising and swelling (p < 0.0001), with a more rapid healing response. The risk of hematoma was also less with the use of glue (0 percent) than without glue (8.3 percent), but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.489). Another benefit was that drains were not needed when glue was used. Operating times were shorter by 13.3 minutes with the use of glue (p < 0.0001). Aerosolized fibrin glue has great promise in improving face-lift results, with excellent outcomes and fewer complications. The added cost of the glue is partially offset by an expedited patient recovery period without the need for drains.

Randomized controlled trial of a synthetic sealant for preventing alveolar air leaks after lobectomy

BACKGROUND

The intraoperative application of synthetic surgical lung sealant (SLS) to surfaces leaking air or at risk of air leaks has been advocated to reduce alveolar air leaks (AAL) after lobectomy.

METHODS

This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of SLS in reducing AAL in patients considered intraoperatively to have moderate to severe AAL, after all conventional measures to reduce such leaks had been used. Over 17 months, 124 patients undergoing standard lobectomy were randomized to standard closure of parenchymal surgical sites, with or without SLS.

RESULTS

In treated patients, the mean numbers of intraoperative AAL after application of SLS were significantly smaller than in untreated patients (38.5 mL versus 59.9 mL, p = 0.0401). Postoperatively, the mean time to last observable AAL was shorter in the treated group (33.7 hours versus 63.2 hours, p = 0.0134) and the mean percentage of patients free of AAL at days 3 and 4 was smaller (87% versus 58.5%, p = 0.002). However, the occurrence of incomplete lung expansion after drain removal, and the length of the postoperative hospital stay due to prolonged AAL, were not different. In the treatment group, 4 patients developed localized empyema and incomplete lung expansion without bronchopleural fistula 7, 12, 15, and 20 days, respectively, after operation. In these 4 patients, inserted chest tubes drained infected sealant.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical lung sealant may be a useful adjunct to conventional techniques for reducing moderate and severe AAL after lobectomy, but its use seems to increase the risk of postoperative empyema.

Aerosolization of Epidermal Cells with Fibrin Glue for the Epithelialization of Porcine Wounds with Unfavorable Topography

Aerosolized epidermal cell suspension was previously found to be effective for the epithelialization of full-thickness wounds. This suspension is less expensive than and requires a shorter preparation time than the currently used cultured epithelial autografts. Still, convex and irregular wounds present unfavorable conditions for homogenous dispersion of the aerosolized cell suspension. The authors hypothesized that the addition of fibrin glue to the aerosol of cells would reduce cell movement and ensure homogenous dispersion of the cells, thereby promoting wound epithelialization. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the healing of wounds with unfavorable topography after autotransplantation of an epidermal cell aerosol with and without fibrin glue. Six Yorkshire piglets were studied. An epidermal suspension was made from full-thickness groin skin. Dispase was used to separate the epidermis from the dermis, and trypsin was used to separate the epidermal cells from one another. Twenty-four hours later, full-thickness wounds with unfavorable topography were created adjacent to the vertebral column of six pigs. Twelve wounds were treated with an aerosol of epidermal cell suspension mixed with fibrin glue (study group), and 12 wounds were treated with the same suspension without the fibrin glue (control group). The percentages of total wound contraction and the epithelialized and nonepithelialized areas were evaluated 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks after aerosolization. The histologic characteristics of the newly formed skin were examined by light microscopy using slides stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Study wounds were characterized by central epithelialization, whereas control wounds were characterized by peripheral epithelialization. Study wounds contracted at a slower rate than control wounds, but wound size was the same in both groups after 4 weeks. The addition of fibrin glue facilitated epithelialization: Study wounds showed 75.5 +/- 22.4 percent (mean +/- SD) and 94.2 +/- 8.8 percent epithelialization after 3 and 4 weeks, respectively, compared with 46.3 +/- 9.5 percent and 47.9 +/- 13.1 percent epithelialization of the control wounds at the same times. These differences between the study and control groups were statistically significant (p < 0.001, paired t test). The addition of fibrin glue to an aerosol of epidermal cells significantly enhances the epithelialization of wounds with unfavorable topography in pigs.

Prevention of the adverse effects of aprotinin in autologous fibrin glue

To avoid the adverse effects of aprotinin (Apr) in autologous fibrin glue, we compared the inhibitory properties of four commercial anti-fibrinolytic agents (tranexamic acid (Tra), epsilon-aminocaproic acid (Ips), gabexate mesilate (Gab) and nafamostat mesilate (Naf)). The optimum conditions for the lysing of fibrin glue were an incubation temperature of 37 degrees C, and incubation medium containing urokinase at 100 U/ml and plasminogen at 100 mU/ml (for the washed glue), or neither (for unwashed glue). Fibrin glues without an anti-fibrinolytic agent were quickly lysed in the incubation medium, while those with an anti-fibrinolytic agent were slowly lysed dose-dependently. Naf was the most potent inhibitor and had high affinity for the glue, but the other agents were poor inhibitors and had low affinity. The inhibition potency (IP) of each agent did not correlate with hydrophobicity, but a good correlation was obtained between the remaining coefficient (RC) and hydrophobicity. Naf did not affect the adhesive strength of the glue. These results indicate that Naf is the most suitable anti-fibrinolytic agent to replace Apr.

An immediate, allergic skin reaction to aprotinin after reexposure to fibrin sealant

BACKGROUND

The safety of fibrin tissue adhesives has been a concern since they entered wide clinical application. Most commercially available kits contain the proteolytic inhibitor, aprotinin, to stabilize the fibrin clot. A bovine protein, this substance has an allergenic potency.

CASE REPORT

This case report presents a patient who had a generalized allergic skin reaction, probably triggered by aprotinin upon reexposure to fibrin sealant injected subgaleally to achieve closure of a liquor fistula after neurosurgical treatment. The serologic investigation revealed aprotinin-specific IgE and IgG. From 1990 through 1998, reports of five allergic reactions following 1 million exposures to fibrin sealant were made to the manufacturer. The clinical relevance of allergic reactions to aprotinin contained in fibrin sealants and measures to avoid them are discussed.

CONCLUSION

These hypersensitivity reactions are extremely rare (incidence, 0.5/100,000 for all reactions and 0.3/100,000 for serious reactions), but they must be kept in mind as possible adverse events after repeated applications of fibrin sealants within a few weeks.

[Allergic risk of aprotinin]

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the risk of anaphylactic reaction with the administration of aprotinin, either by i.v. route or as a biological sealant application and to propose updated guidelines in accordance with current data of the literature.

DATA SOURCES

Search in the Medline data base of articles in French, English and German, published since 1960, using following key words: aprotinin, allergy, anaphylaxis.

STUDY SELECTION

All categories of articles on this topic have been selected.

DATA EXTRACTION

Articles have been analysed for history, incidence and mechanisms of anaphylactic reactions, symptomatology, factors of risk, diagnosis and precautions of use.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Aprotinin is widely used for decreasing preoperative bleeding, especially in cardiac and orthopaedic surgery. This heterologue protein can cause anaphylactic reactions in 0.5 to 5.8% of patients, depending of the inclusion criteria. They are mediated by IgG and IgE antibodies. Aprotinin has also a direct, non specific, histaminoliberation effect. The clinical presentation includes various degrees of severity, up to cardiac arrest. Documented factors of risk are a previous parotinin administration, 15 days to 6 months before, and intolerance to beef meat, white of egg, cheese and milk. The immediate biological diagnosis is obtained on assessing the degranulation of basophiles (histamine) and mastocytes (tryptase), as well as the concentration of anti-aprotinin antibodies (RAST IgE), with a test of inhibition. The secondary assessment, six weeks later, includes prick-tests and intradermoreactions if the former are negative. The mean precaution consists to search factors of risk at preanaesthetic assessment. The predictive value of systematic prick-tests has not yet been validated. Anti H1 and anti H2 premedication is inefficient. A test dose can trigger a severe reaction.

CONCLUSION

Considering a significant anaphylactic risk, aprotinin administration becomes only licit after a careful evaluation of the benefit-risk ratio.

Experimental study on the in vivo behaviour of a new collagen glue in lung surgery

OBJECTIVE

To study the pneumostatic ability of a collagen polymerised with a polysaccharide (GAO) glue in lung surgery; its influence in pleuro-pulmonary adhesion formation; the pulmonary tissue reaction to it, its biodegradability, and the eventual alterations of pulmonary compliance induced by the glue.

METHODS

Two groups of ten rabbits (controls and treated) were operated under ventilatory assistance by thoracotomy to promote pleural adhesions, and injury to the lung. Repeated chest X-rays were carried out postoperatively. Lungs were examined histologically at day 40. In vitro tests were performed to study glue effects on pulmonary compliance.

RESULTS

Air leaks stopped 2 min after glue application. Persistent pneumothorax were likely seen in treated rabbits (ns). Glue induces a temporary reduction of pulmonary compliance. Glue did not increase adhesion formation, or interfere with the healing process.

CONCLUSIONS

For its properties, GAO seems to be a good and well-tolerated tool to reduce air leaks from the lung, without inducing residual pleural symphysis.

Aprotinin in fibrin tissue adhesives induces specific antibody response and increases antibody response of high-dose intravenous application

BACKGROUND

In cardiac operations, aprotinin therapy is used either locally as a component of commercially available fibrin tissue adhesives, intravenously, or combined. Our aim was to examine the formation of aprotinin-specific antibodies with regard to the application mode.

METHODS

Sera of 150 patients who had undergone cardiac operations and were receiving aprotinin therapy for the first time were sampled before the operation and at medians of 3.5 and 13.3 months after the operation. Aprotinin-specific IgG including all subgroups and aprotinin-specific IgE were analyzed. Aprotinin was given locally (as contained in fibrin sealant; n = 45; median dose, 6000 KIU), intravenously (n = 46; 2.000 x 10(6) KIU), and combined (n = 59; 2.012 x 10(6) KIU).

RESULTS

At 3.5 months, the prevalence of aprotinin-specific IgG antibodies was 33% (15/45 patients) after local, 28% (13/46 patients) after intravenous, and 69% (41/59 patients) after combined exposure (P =.0001). At 13.3 months, the prevalence of aprotinin-specific IgG antibodies was 10% (4/41 patients) after local, 31% (13/42 patients) after intravenous, and 49% (28/57 patients) after combined exposure. Total aprotinin dose was similar in patients who were antibody positive and negative. Before the operation, no aprotinin-specific antibodies were detected. Aprotinin-specific IgE were not found after the operation.

CONCLUSION

Local aprotinin contact induces a specific immune response and reinforces that of intravenous exposure. The antibody spectrum is identical to the immune response induced by intravenous exposure. Any exposure should be documented. For use in cardiac operations as a hemostyptic, the necessity itself and alternatives for aprotinin as a stabilizing agent merit consideration.

[Changes in homeostasis during surgical liver resection]

OBJECTIVES

To assess changes in haemostasis during liver resection and to discuss the indications for antifibrinolytic therapy.

STUDY DESIGN

Open prospective study.

PATIENTS

The study included 39 consecutive non-cirrhotic patients presenting for liver resection under portal triad clamping.

METHOD

General anaesthesia was obtained with thiopentone, fentanyl, vecuronium and isoflurane. Transfusion scheme was standardized. Aprotinin (5,000 kIU.kg-1 BW) was administered in case of unexplained bleeding in the operative field. Coagulation pattern was assessed by routine tests and thrombelastrography before surgery, before portal triad clamping, 5 min after reperfusion and at completion of surgery. Patients requiring aprotinin intraoperatively were compared to others.

RESULTS

In 32 patients no significant bleeding occurred. Their coagulation pattern was moderately changed and remained within the normal range. In seven patients severe bleeding occurred which was treated with aprotinin. Their coagulation tests were significantly modified, especially after reperfusion, associating an increase in aPTT, TT, FDP, DDim, r + k and a decreased platelet count.

CONCLUSION

These changes were more in favour of a dilution coagulopathy or a DIC than hyperfibrinolysis. Therefore substitutive therapy with coagulation factors should be preferred to an antifibrinolytic agent. A systematic administration of the latter for liver resection in non-cirrhotic patients is debatable, considering the allergic risk (reoperation for cancer recurrence), thrombosis facilitation (pedicle clamping) and high cost.

Multicenter trial to evaluate the safety and potential efficacy of pooled human fibrin sealant for the treatment of burn wounds

OBJECTIVE

The primary purpose of this multicenter study was to evaluate the safety and potential efficacy of a solvent/detergent-treated commercial fibrin sealant (human) for topical hemostasis in skin grafting.

METHODS

The study involved a prospective evaluation of changes in viral titers in patients with burns less than 15% after treatment with fibrin sealant (human). Each patient served as his/her own control for an unblinded, randomized comparison of donor site hemostasis and healing. Preoperative serum was obtained to screen for viral titers. At autografting, the recipient site and one of two randomly chosen donor sites were treated with fibrin sealant (human). The use of other hemostatic agents, including epinephrine was prohibited. Each donor site was covered with gauze to collect blood for estimation of the relative amount of bleeding. The healing of the graft and donor sites was observed. Viral titers and wounds were checked monthly for 6 months, and at 9 and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Viral titers for human immunodeficiency virus; hepatitis A, B, and C; Epstein-Barr virus; and cytomegalovirus were obtained before and after treatment. Of 47 patients, 34 completed the full year of observation. After treatment, there were no seroconversions to any of the aforementioned viruses. Bleeding at the recipient site appeared well controlled with fibrin sealant (human). Although investigators felt that fibrin sealant (human) improved donor site hemostasis, differences in hemoglobin measurements of blood-soaked dressings failed to reach significance. No differences were noted with regard to acceleration of donor site healing, graft take, or scar maturation at the two groups of donor sites. Anecdotally, the maturation of the recipient site appeared to be accelerated.

CONCLUSION

Fibrin sealant (human) is safe for use during excision and grafting, and its topical hemostatic potential needs to be examined in patients with larger burns. Its role in scar maturation also needs to be investigated.

[Anaphylactic shock caused by fibrin glue]

We observed a case of anaphylactic shock in a 68-year-old woman after a nasal intramucosal injection of fibrin glue for telangiectasies therapy. The tests showed an allergy to aprotinin contained in the glue. In the previous years, glue and aprotinin had been administered to the patient several times for nasal bleeding.

Fibrin sealant, aprotinin, and immune response in children undergoing operations for congenital heart disease

OBJECTIVE

Most commercially available fibrin sealants contain aprotinin in doses of 1500 kallikrein inactivator units per milliliter. They are used in many operative disciplines. An elevated risk of hypersensitivity reactions exists at reexposure to aprotinin. Our aim was to examine the immunogenic potency of aprotinin as a fibrin sealant content.

METHODS

We investigated 49 children with operatively treated congenital heart disease. All patients received aprotinin only topically as contained in fibrin sealant. Serum samples were drawn preoperatively, 1 week, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and approximately 1 year after operation. They were analyzed for aprotinin-specific immunoglobulin G antibodies with a standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and a fluorescence enzyme immunoassay for aprotinin-specific immunoglobulin E antibodies.

RESULTS

At 1 week, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 1 year, we found prevalences of 8% (2 of 26), 8% (2 of 24), 6% (3 of 49), and 0% for aprotinin-specific Immunoglobulin E, and for aprotinin-specific immunoglobulin G 8% (2 of 26), 17% (4 of 24), 39% (19 of 49), and 12% (5 of 41). The doses of aprotinin given did not differ significantly in antibody-negative and antibody-positive patients; no significant factors could predict the immune response.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show the existence of a subgroup of patients who had aprotinin-specific antibodies develop after topical aprotinin application. Any use of aprotinin must be carefully documented. If aprotinin use is planned in patients who previously underwent a surgical procedure, preexposure to aprotinin in any form must be sought to avoid unexpected anaphylactic reactions. The necessity itself and alternatives for aprotinin as a stabilizing agent in fibrin sealants merit consideration.

Gelatin-resorcinol-formaldehyde-glutaraldehyde glue-spread stapler prevents air leakage from the lung

BACKGROUND

To reinforce the staple line of the emphysematous lung and thereby prevent air leakage during thoracoscopic operations, we have developed a procedure of lung excision that uses a gelatin-resorcinol-formaldehyde-glutaraldehyde (GRFG) glue-spread stapler.

METHODS

Formaldehyde-glutaraldehyde (FG) jelly is prepared by mixing FG fluid with 2.5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose. The FG jelly is placed in the stapler groove and staple holes, and a gelatin-resorcinol (GR) mixture is applied. The GRFG glue-spread stapler was applied to emphysematous lung cutting during thoracoscopic operations in 10 cases.

RESULTS

An adhesion-strength test showed no difference in glue adhesion between FG fluid and FG jelly. An experiment using swine lung showed that with this newly developed stapler, no resistance in firing occurred, and GRFG glue covered every staple hole. Clinical application in 10 cases with emphysematous lung demonstrated no air leakage from the staple line, even long after the operation.

CONCLUSIONS

Emphysematous lung excision using the GRFG glue-spread stapler during thoracoscopic operations is useful in preventing air leakage from the staple line and is a simple, safe, and low-cost procedure.

Dural Closure with Laser Tissue Welding

This study investigates the use of tissue-soldering techniques to substitute or reinforce traditional suture closure of dural incisions. Fresh human cadaveric dura was incised and subsequently closed by use of three techniques: (1) conventional interrupted suture with 4–0 silk ( n = 25), (2) laser solder reinforced suture closure ( n = 25), and (3) laser solder closure alone ( n = 25). Anastomosis tensile strength and hydrostatic leak pressures were measured. Dural repair was also performed in 15 live Lewis rats. Dural closure was accomplished with 9–0 Prolene sutures ( n = 5), laser-reinforced suture closure ( n = 5), and laser solder closure alone ( n = 5). Histologic examination of the closure immediately after soldering and 2 weeks later was performed. Suture closure alone had the lowest leak pressure, 9.4 ± 1.7 mm Hg, and an intermediate break point, 13.3 ± 2.1 Kgf/cm2. Measurements with laser solder alone revealed a mean leak pressure of 26.2 ± 3.7 mm Hg and a break point of 4.6 ± 1.4 Kgf/cm2. Solder-reinforced suture closure leak pressure measured 64.0 ± 6.7 mm Hg and 21.4 ± 2.4 Kgf/cm2. There was a statistically significant increase in leak pressure and tensile strength in the closures performed with laser weld reinforcement of traditional suture technique ( p = 0.0001). Dural closure with laser tissue welding alone provided an immediate leak-free closure, but with poor tensile strength. Histologic examination of welded dura and underlying brain tissue showed no evidence of thermal injury in four of five animals studied. Laser welding may significantly decrease the incidence of cerebrospinal fluid leak after dural closure. In addition, laser tissue welding also makes dural closure possible where space constraints make traditional suture closure difficult.