Clinical Applications of Tissue Adhesives in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery1

This chapter presents some of the clinical applications of surgical adhesives in the management of skin grafts in bum patients, in difficult wounds, and innovations in the application of tissue glues when combined with aesthetic and endoscopic surgery. Throughout the centuries, surgeons and scientists have sought an ideal surgical sealant and adhesive, one that would be safe, biologically compatible, with rapid action and adequate tensile strength. All patients were able to start early active and passive motion with an excellent functional and aesthetic result in long-term follow-ups. The biological adhesive decreases bleeding during the procedure due to its hemostatic effect, secures the graft in place, and avoids hematoma formation that often results in graft loss. Resurfacing of facial bums with sheet grafts demands significant and prolonged postoperative care and results in a suboptimal graft take. The graft take was 100% and the aesthetic result was very satisfactory. The patients were able to move, eat and ambulate on first postoperative day.