Experimental evaluation of 2-octyl-cyanoacrylate on dura mater healing

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of this synthetic glue tissue on the healing of dura mater closure in rabbits. The study was undertaken to investigate the histological and toxicological behavior of dural repair using standard suture techniques and suture supplemented with tissue adhesive. Methods: A total of 54 rabbits was divided into 9 groups of 6 animals, and then were divided equivalently into 3 groups (A, B and C), each one containing 3 sub-groups of 6 rabbits, sacrificed on days 7, 30 and 60 respectively. After 1cm parasagital craniectomy and 0.5cm dural opening, three different procedures were carried out: in group A dura mater was reinforced by using 2-octyl-cyanoacrylate, in group B biological glue (fibrin glue) was applied and in group C only the dura mater suturing was performed. The rabbits were sacrificed on specific days following the operation. Integrity of the sutures, existence of abscess, wound infection and adhesion formation were recorded. The heads were sent for histological examination. Results: The synthetic glue didn’t interfere with the metabolism of the animals. The mean weight of rabbits in groups A and B increased. Temperature did not increase and was not statistically different between the three groups (p=0.210). Dura mater healing process, as assessed by fibroblast activity and inflammatory cell infiltration, did not differ statistically between the three groups (p>0.05). Only neovascularization increased in the control group. Conclusion: Histological sections obtained from the dura mater treated with 2-octyl-cyanoacrylate polymer demonstrated minimal inflammatory response, similar to that treated with fibrin adhesive sealant. Results indicate that this new substance seems to have applications as an adjunctive means of effecting dural closure.