Cytotoxicity testing of cyanoacrylates using direct contact assay on cell cultures.

The use of a tissue adhesive for surgical procedures has prompted a large number of clinical and experimental studies. Alkyl-2-cyanoacrylate esters constitute a family of adhesives with good mechanical properties but their biological compatibility has to be assessed. In this study the cytotoxicity of three commercially available cyanoacrylates and one of unknown composition has been determined.

Toxicity of cyanoacrylates in vitro using extract dilution assay on cell cultures.

Comparative cytotoxicity testing of four cyanoacrylate adhesives suggested for orthopaedic applications was performed. These substances were placed in complete culture medium with serum and the resulting extraction fluids were tested on L 929 cells and human lymphocytes. Testing procedures include cell morphology assessment using light microscopy and vital dyes, cell counting using a computer-assisted image analysis system, cell growth measurement using total protein content assay and cell viability assessment using the MTT method.

Radiographic and therapeutic aspects of neurogenic arthropathy.

The authors describe the typical radiographic aspects of neurogenic arthropathy based on an examination of 127 cases observed at the Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute. Surgical indications for the various joints affected are discussed, and the results obtained after treatment are reported.

[Medical therapy of pain in oncology].

The authors report data concerning their study on the incidence of pain in advanced neoplastic patients and on the natural history of this symptom. They also report their experience in the treatment of solid tumours with non steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (Zomepirac, acetylsalicylic acid, Diflunisal, Ketoprofen) with a synthetic progestin (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate employed by authors at high or at very high doses for the first time) and with morphine hydrochloride used by oral, rectal, sublingual and nasal route. The authors also indicate the correct strategy of employing these drugs and criteria of evaluating their effectiveness.