A prospective, randomized, double-blind trial of the use of fibrin sealant for face lifts

• Published in: Plastic and reconstructive surgery (1963) Vol. 108; no. 7; p. 2101
• Main Authors: Oliver, D W, Hamilton, S A, Figle, A A, Wood, S H, Lamberty, B G
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.12.2001
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Double-Blind Method; Female; Fibrin Tissue Adhesive - therapeutic use; Hemostasis, Surgical; Humans; Middle Aged; Postoperative Complications; Prospective Studies; Rhytidoplasty - methods; Tissue Adhesives - therapeutic use
• ISSN: 0032-1052
• DOI: 10.1097/00006534-200112000-00045

Fibrin sealant imitates the final phase of the blood coagulation process. Fibrinogen is converted into fibrin on a tissue surface by the action of thrombin, which is then cross-linked by factor XIIIa, creating a mechanically stable fibrin network. This fibrin network is thought to reduce the amount of postoperative bleeding by sealing capillary vessels and allowing raw operative surfaces to adhere. The authors conducted a prospective, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial on the use of fibrin sealant in 20 consecutive patients undergoing bilateral face lifts by the same surgeon. Each patient was randomized for the use of fibrin sealant on either the right or the left side with the contralateral side acting as the control. Total drainage was recorded on each side for 24 hours before drains were removed. The age range of the patients in the trial (all of whom were women) was 44 to 70 years (mean, 55). The side treated with fibrin glue had a median drainage of 10 ml and the control side 30 ml. The Wilcoxon signed rank test shows a significant difference in drainage between sides (p = 0.002). The reduction in postoperative drainage could also reduce pain and bruising, increasing patient satisfaction with this procedure. The need for drains may also be obviated.