Fibrin Sealant Applications in Skin Grafting Techniques

Fibrin sealants, comprising concentrated fibrinogen and thrombin, have emerged as adjuncts or alternatives to sutures and staples in the fixation of skin grafts. Upon application, the components polymerise into a fibrin clot that closely mimics the final stages of natural haemostasis, providing immediate adherence of the graft to the wound bed, reducing dead space and minimising fluid accumulation such as haematoma or seroma. This bio-adhesive layer supports uniform pressure distribution, promotes early neovascularisation and can serve as a scaffold for cell migration and matrix deposition. Clinically, fibrin sealants have been applied across a spectrum of graft types – from split-thickness and full-thickness skin grafts to composite grafts in facial reconstruction – and in diverse settings including burn care, chronic ulcer management and reconstructive microsurgery. They offer the potential benefits of reduced operative time, less postoperative discomfort and lower incidence of graft loss, while enabling adaptation to irregular wound contours. Advances in formulations, including autologous preparations that limit immunogenic risk and carry higher concentrations of endogenous growth factors, have broadened their utility, particularly in resource-limited settings. Ongoing research seeks to optimise sealant composition, delivery methods and cost-effectiveness, with the ultimate goal of improving graft survival and patient outcomes on a global scale.

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Fibrin Sealant Applications in Skin Grafting Techniques publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in fibrin sealant applications in skin grafting techniques across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Fibrin sealant: A surgical adhesive formed by mixing concentrated fibrinogen and thrombin to generate an instant fibrin clot that adheres tissues and controls bleeding.

Neovascularisation: The process of new blood vessel formation within a healing tissue, crucial for graft survival and integration.

Seroma: A pocket of clear serous fluid that can accumulate under a graft or wound, impeding adherence and healing.

Composite graft: A graft comprising more than one tissue type (for example skin and cartilage) transferred as a single unit for reconstructive purposes.

References

1. Could Fibrin Sealants (TISSEELTM) Be Effective in the Management of Burn Injuries? A Histopathological Study in Rats. Medical Sciences (2024).
2. Effectiveness of fibrin glue in skin graft survival: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2020).
3. Restoration of soft triangle of the nose using auricular composite graft and fibrin glue. Acta Oto-Laryngologica Case Reports (2020).