Experimental use of an albumin-glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive for sealing tracheal anastomoses.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to test the performance of an albumin-glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive (BioGlue, manufactured by CryoLife Inc., Kennesaw, GA, USA) when used on tracheal resections in rabbits, which is a sensitive model to investigate the biocompatibility of the glue.

Methods: The 24 animals were anesthetized and underwent cervicotomy with resection of a 10 mm long tracheal segment.

Treatment of tuberculous spondylitis at the cervicothoracic junction. Clinical impact of surgery by means of a sternotomy.

The operative treatment of tuberculous spondylitis remains a challenge with regard to the surgical approach to the cervicothoracic junction. In addition, it is difficult to restore the resected vertebral bodies. Two cases of tuberculous spondylitis in this area are presented.

Surgical treatment of the spine at the cervicothoracic junction: an illustrated review of a modified sternotomy approach with the description of tricks and pitfalls.

The surgical treatment of burst fracture, tumour or spondylitis remains a challenge with regard to the surgical approach to the anterior aspect of the cervicothoracic junction. Many vital structures including osseus, articular, vascular and nervous ones hinder the exposure. Fortunately, indications for surgery in this region are rare.

Experimental use of an albumin-glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive for sealing pulmonary parenchyma and bronchial anastomoses.

Objective: Despite advanced surgical techniques, major complications of bronchial anastomoses and parenchymal repair, including early leak, fistula formation and granulations still occur. The purpose of this study was to test the performance of an albumin-glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive (BioGlue), CryoLife Inc., Kennesaw, GA) as a sealant for bronchial anastomoses and parenchyma lesions.

[What is the value of neoadjuvant therapy in bronchial carcinoma?].

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is obligatory for small-cell lung cancer. When combined with radio-therapy, it reduces the incidence of recurrence and increases the survival rate to a level similar to that seen in non-small-cell lung cancer. Preliminary results suggest that complete remissions (3-year-survival rate 56%) can be achieved through the use of chemotherapy, possibly including high-dose chemotherapy for advanced stage III A cancer.