The efficacy of cyanoacrylate-derived surgical adhesive for use in the repair of lacerations during competitive athletics

Octylcyanoacrylate (Dermabond) is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for laceration closure. International studies have shown its utility in wound closure and have shown it to be as good or better than suture closure for speed, patient preference, and cosmesis, with no difference in the rate of dehiscence or infection. We sought to determine whether it retains its tensile strength, durability, and skin apposition when an athlete is allowed to reenter competition, where it is subject to recurrent stress, moisture, and trauma. The study was performed at two professional hockey sites. Wounds were anesthetized, irrigated, and debrided. The skin was closed with Dermabond. The athlete was returned immediately to competition. Wounds were examined at the end of competition and again at 7 days. A total of 32 lacerations on 28 players were studied. The mean size of laceration was 2.3 cm (range 0.8 cm to 4.5 cm). The majority (95%) of wounds were on the face. Of the 32 lacerations, 31 (97.6%) had good results at the conclusion of the game. Of these 31, all had good results at 7 days following repair. Dermabond retained its strength, durability, and skin apposition when the athlete was allowed to reenter competition following wound repair. (Am J Emerg Med 2000;18: 261-263. Copyright © 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company)