Octyl-2-cyanoacrylate Adhesive for Skin Closure: Eight Years Experience

Abstract

Cyanoacrylate skin adhesive is increasingly used to ensure and stabilize wound closures. One of the documented favorable effects of these glues is to limit the risk of a surgical site infection by physically isolating the wound. Patients and Methods: From January 2005 to January 2013, 900 patients requiring surgical treatment in the Structure of Plastic Surgery of the University of Sienna were enrolled for the study and divided in two groups; 450 patients treated with glue versus 450 controls. Results: The cohort of patients treated with glue had lower incidence of wound infection and wound dehiscence. Approximately 375 work-hours were economized. Conclusion: Octyl-2-cyanoacrylate is a valuable aid for ensuring the success of surgery by reducing surgical site infections. The use of octyl-2-cyanoacrylate is easy, guarantying a major superficial protection without relevant contraindications and with evident saving of time and resources.