[Validation of rheological properties of fibrin glue: Biocol-Human Thrombin]

Rheological properties of one of the main fibrin glues, "Biocol-Thrombine Humaine", prepared by the Regional Blood Transfusion Center of Lille (France) were measured with a CSL controlled stress rheometer using cone-plates and parallel plates. The parameters followed were the dynamic viscosity of the fibrinogen concentrate, the gelification time, the breaking point in a destructive test and the development of elasticity of the fibrin clots according to time or frequency. The results showed that the fibrinogen concentrate of "Biocol-Thrombine Humaine" has a flow curve near that of Newtonian flow, and that its dynamic viscosity at 20 degrees C is about 100 mPa.s. The gelification time of the fibrinogen-thrombin mixture is very short (under 10 seconds). The breaking point is high, showing a great strength of the fibrin clots. The development of elasticity after mixing is very quick. It is also independent of the frequency shearing. The validation of these rheological tests provides data supporting their use in the assessment of the physical properties of fibrin glue in place of the currently used test based on the gluing of mouse skin.