Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the appropriate condition of use of the fibrin
glue plus polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheet combination to obtain the optimal sealing
effect.
Methods 126 consecutive patients underwent video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) were divided
into groups as follows: fibrin glue sprayed on the PGA sheet placed over the pleural
defect (Method I); fibrinogen and thrombin solutions sprayed separately on the PGA
sheet soaked in thrombin and placed over the pleural defect after rubbing of fibrinogen
solution on the area (Method II); fibrin glue sprayed on the PGA sheet placed over
the pleural defect after rubbing of fibrinogen solution on the area (Method III).
Method II and Method III were also examined in an animal model.
Results Postoperative air leakage was more effectively prevented by Method III than by the
other two methods (p < 0.05). In the experimental study, a significantly higher seal-breaking pressure
was obtained for Method III than for Method II (p < 0.05).
Conclusion Method III was the most effective for preventing alveolar air leakage.
Keywords
alveolar air leakage - video-assisted thoracic surgery - polyglycolic acid sheet -
fibrin glue
