RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficiency of cyanoacrylate in closing tension-free incisions in out-patient surgery compared with traditional suturing methods. PATIENT AND METHODS: A single, blind, clinical study was carried out on 60 patients divided into two groups. Group 1 (n = 30) received one or two drops of cyanoacrylate directly on the incision. Control (Group 2) (n = 32) received traditional nylon suturing. Both groups were evaluated after 21 days of incision closing. Statistical differences in baseline characteristics between study treatment groups were assessed with chi 2 and t tests. All p values are two-sided. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the two groups in age, gender, or incision length. Length of time for surgical incision to close was less in Group I, significant difference p < 0.0001. There was also a significant difference in aesthetics in Group I. There was no significant difference in any remaining variable, such as suture dehiscence and adequate border coaption. CONCLUSION: Our study showed cyanoacrylate to be more efficient and advantageous in closing of incisions in out-patient surgery than traditional suturing methods. Although we do not pretend to substitute these methods, we recommend the use of cyanoacrylate in closing tension-free incisions in certain patients following rules of usage and practiced by experts.