Dermabond skin closures for bilateral reduction mammaplasties: A review of 255 consecutive cases

Background: 2-Octyl cyanoacrylate (Dermabond; Ethicon, Inc., Somerville, N.J.) has been available as a skin closure alternative or adjunct since 1997. The purpose of this study was to review a large series of 255 consecutive bilateral reduction mammaplasty patients to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Dermabond for these procedures. Methods: A review was undertaken of 255 consecutive bilateral reduction mammaplasties performed by a single surgeon from 1999 to 2005 with Dermabond used for skin closure. This series of patients was compared with an earlier review by the same surgeon of 415 consecutive bilateral reduction mammaplasties using standard layered sutured skin closures. Results: Dermabond was associated with decreased operative times compared with the sutured closures (93 minutes compared with 118 minutes; 25 minutes or 20 percent less time). The rates for minor wound dehiscence (1.18 percent), major wound dehiscence (0.78), hypertrophic scar revisions (2.75 percent), and cellulitis (2.75 percent) were all lower in the Dermabond group, but these differences were not statistically significant. Conclusions: Dermabond is a safe and effective means of skin closure for bilateral reduction mammaplasties. Shortened operative times can lead to economic health cost savings. Patient discomfort is minimized and postoperative care is simplified.