Closure of lung leaks by fibrin gluing. Experimental investigations and clinical experience

In 28 male Wistar rats a standardized lung incision was closed by running suture and in half of the animals by additional application of fibrin adhesive. The animals were sacrificed 30 minutes and 5 days postoperatively. A significantly higher tolerance to increased inflation pressure was found in the fibrin-treated group. Ten patients undergoing pulmonary resection had conventional closure of parenchymatous lesions with additional fibrin gluing. Under positive air way pressure ventilation the sealing effect proved to be better after application of fibrin adhesive to the sutured area.