A review of tissue glue use in facial lacerations: potential problems with wound selection in accident and emergency

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to review the types of facial lacerations for which tissue glue was used as a closure method and assess whether current evidence was being followed. Methods: A retrospective analysis of facial lacerations presenting to an adult Accident and Emergency Department was made over a 6-month period. Results: Out of 200 facial lacerations, 45 were closed using tissue glue. The mean length of the wounds was 2.05 cm, with a range of 0.5–6 cm; 42 were linear and three were non-linear. Senior house officers closed 16 wounds, middle grade doctors closed 19, emergency nurse practitioners closed seven, and consultants closed three. Six cases were closed against current evidence (13%). This included three lacerations that were non-linear and three lacerations greater than 4 cm in length. Four out of six of these cases were closed by senior house officer grades (80%). Conclusion: The lack of clarity over the use of tissue glue for facial wounds may be attributable to a lack of awareness and training, and the misinterpretation of randomized trials. Greater awareness is needed of the role of tissue glue, especially among senior house officers.