Compatibility of autologous fibrin adhesive with implant materials

A safe, effective method for securing autologous and alloplastic implants would benefit modern surgery substantially. We studied the effects of a new autologous fibrin tissue adhesive with various alloplastic implants and ear cartilage. Twelve rabbits had Proplast (a woven combination of Teflon and organic fibers), Silastic, Supramid polyfilament surgical sheeting, and ear cartilage implanted. One side of each animal had implants secured with tissue adhesive. The other, control side had identical implants placed in "subcutaneous tunnels." The tissue adhesive was biodegradable and produced no apparent toxic reaction, infection, or foreign-body reaction. It did not adhere to Silastic, but bound to the other implants. Glued implants had no more clinical or histologic evidence of inflammation than controls. Autologous fibrin tissue adhesive seems to be promising as a safe, biologic bonding material for securing certain alloplastic and autologous implants.