Primary and revision cleft lip repairs using octyl-2-cyanoacrylate

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Wound Healing
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Cleft lip repair is a common surgical procedure.
• Traditional methods involve sutures, which can cause patient discomfort and require removal.
• Tissue adhesives offer a potential alternative for wound closure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of using octyl-2-cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive for primary and revision cleft lip repairs.
• To assess cosmetic results and complications in pediatric and adult patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 18 patients (pediatric and adult) who underwent cleft lip repair using octyl-2-cyanoacrylate between 1999 and 2003.
• Analysis of patient age, cleft type, repair type (primary/revision), complications, follow-up duration, and aesthetic outcomes.
• Surgical techniques included Millard rotation advancement and Mohler variant with a pressure-fit technique for skin eversion prior to adhesive application.

Main Results:

• Seventeen of eighteen patients achieved excellent cosmetic outcomes.
• One patient experienced minor flap tip necrosis.
• No instances of allergic reactions, wound infections, or dehiscence were reported.

Conclusions:

• Octyl-2-cyanoacrylate is a safe and effective option for skin closure in cleft lip repairs, yielding excellent cosmetic results.
• The described pressure-fit technique may enhance outcomes.
• Benefits include avoidance of suture removal in pediatric patients and reduced operative time.