Tissue adhesives and fibrin glues: NOVEMBER 2003

Abstract

Synthetic and biologic tissue glues have been used for control of bleeding and closure of fistulas and anastomotic leaks. GI endoscopic applications of cyanoacrylate and fibrin glues are considered "off-label" uses. Embolization and death have been reported with cyanoacrylate injection for hemostasis. Embolization also can occur from intravascular injection of thrombin or fibrin glue. Fibrin glue/thrombin can induce antibody formation with subsequent coagulopathy; however, this is a rare event with use of human-source blood products. There are insufficient data to support routine endoscopic use of the available preparations of cyanoacrylate, fibrin glue, and thrombin in clinical practice.