Cavernous angiomas are histologically benign hamartomas, showing no potential for metastasis. Clinically, patients present with convulsions, hemorrhage, or signs of mass effect. Although many cases exhibit ossification on X-ray, the main means of diagnosis is computed tomography. This, in turn, has led to earlier diagnoses being made in much younger patients. Early diagnosis is a matter of urgency as patients are otherwise exposed to the continuing threat of rupture. As cavernous angiomas are operable, the prognosis is usually good.

Cavernous hemangiomas are the most frequently found primary tumors in the orbital region. They normally appear in adults. Diagnostic features in the majority of cases include protrusio bulbi and orbital enlargement. B-Scan and computed tomography/MRI are the prime diagnostic aids. We recommend surgical removal of these tumors, at least in cases with marked orbital protrusion or significant optic nerve compression. The prognosis is usually good.

Although the fibrin adhesion enjoys increasing success in many areas of surgery, it has not become fully established in nerve anastomosis. It was in this area particularly that significant advantages were expected. As the fibrin clot dissolved prematurely, however, and dehiscences ensued, antifibrinolytic substances had to be added to the adhesive. Fibroses occurred frequently as a result, which to date encumber nerve adhesive. We examined Faktor XIII for his fibrosis-inducing effect because both presently available fibrin adhesives contain unphysiologically high concentrations of it. We were able to establish that Factor XIII possesses a fibrosis-promoting effect.

Although the fibrin adhesion enjoys increasing success in many areas of surgery, it has not, however, become fully established in nerve anastomosis. It was in this area particularly that significant advantages were expected. As the fibrin clot dissolved prematurely, however, and dehiscences ensued, antifibrinolytic substances had to be added to the adhesive. Fibroses occurred frequently as a result, which to date encumber nerve adhesive. We examined various factors of the adhesive system for their fibrosis-inducing effect. We were able to establish that no additional fibrosis-promoting effect emanated from aprotinin and the fibrin clot as a supply barrier, whereas thrombin, Factor XIII and fibronectin possess a fibrosis-promoting effect.

No abstract