Tissue Adhesives in Endosurgery

Usage of tissue adhesives/glues for tissue approximation and hemostasis is increasing as the related technology advances. There is no accepted classification, but surgical adhesives fall into 3 main categories: biological, synthetic, and genetically engineered polymer protein glues. Nonresorbable glues should be confined only to surface application, such as closure of the wound edges. Adhesives for internal use, including hemostasis, tissue edge approximation, mesh hernioplasties, sealing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fluid and intestinal leaks, and anastomoses, should be biocompatible and resorbable. In time, tissue glues and soldering will likely replace, in whole or in part, the use of sutures and staples for a variety of tissue approximation surgical procedures. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company.