Gelatine-resorcine-formol glue as a sealant of ePTFE patch suture lines.
BACKGROUND
ePTFE patch reconstruction has superior flow characteristics in preventing early thrombus formation during carotid endarterectomy. However prolonged bleeding at the suture line of the patch reconstruction is a problem. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the application of gelatine-resorcine-formol (GRF) glue at the suture line can improve local haemostasis.


METHODS
A prospective randomised trial of 40 consecutive patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy was undertaken. Patients were randomised to receive GRF glue as a topical haemostatic agent or to act as controls. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney test.


RESULTS
Although the patch size was significantly smaller in the control group (3.0 cm2 vs 4.3 cm2, p<0.001), local haemostasis was achieved in half the time when the glue was used (11 min vs 22, p<0.004). In the follow-up period ranging from 12 to 24 months, there have been no adverse effects related to the glue. Two patients died during the follow-up period. These deaths were neither related to the patch nor to the glue.


CONCLUSIONS
This study has shown that GRF glue is an effective sealant of ePTFE patch suture line. GRF glue does not compromise the patch's characteristics.
Rittoo
D
D
Department of Vascular Surgery, Selly Oak Hospital, Birmingham, UK.
Sintler
M
M
Burnley
S
S
Millns
P
P
Smith
S
S
Vohra
R
R
D000368:Aged; D004338:Drug Combinations; D016894:Endarterectomy, Carotid; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005557:Formaldehyde; D005780:Gelatin; D006489:Hemostatic Techniques; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012118:Resorcinols; D013536:Suture Techniques; D013997:Time Factors; D014014:Tissue Adhesives
D004338:Drug Combinations; D012118:Resorcinols; D014014:Tissue Adhesives; C027813:gelatin-resorcinol-formaldehyde tissue adhesive; D005557:Formaldehyde; D005780:Gelatin; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene