Related Experiment Videos
Bismuth subgallate-epinephrine paste in adenotonsillectomies
1Drug Information and Pharmacy Resource Center, Shands at the University of Florida, Gainesville 32610, USA. hatton@shands.ufl.edu
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|April 20, 2000
Summary
Bismuth subgallate-epinephrine (BSE) paste may be a reasonable hemostatic agent for adenotonsillectomies. While evidence is minimal, epinephrine might be the active ingredient, potentially reducing postoperative bleeding.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Hemostasis
Background:
- Adenotonsillectomies are common surgical procedures.
- Hemorrhage is a significant postoperative concern.
- Bismuth subgallate has a history of use as an astringent and hemostatic agent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of bismuth subgallate-epinephrine (BSE) paste as a hemostatic agent in adenotonsillectomy procedures.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of MEDLINE, Current Contents, and Science Citation Index.
- Search terms included bismuth subgallate, adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, and adenotonsillectomy.
- Evaluation of studies on bismuth subgallate and BSE paste.
Main Results:
- Hemorrhage is a concern in adenotonsillectomies.
- Bismuth subgallate has been historically used for hemostasis.
- Studies on BSE paste were evaluated.
Conclusions:
- Minimal evidence supports the use of BSE paste.
- Epinephrine may be the active hemostatic component in BSE paste.
- BSE paste is inexpensive, low-risk, and may reduce postoperative bleeding, making it a potentially reasonable option.