Can Dermabond (cyanoacrylate) be used to close an earlobe laceration?

From the Guidelines

Yes, you can use Dermabond to close an earlobe laceration in appropriate cases, as it provides a painless closure for low-tension wounds, such as those on the earlobe 1. When considering the use of Dermabond for an earlobe laceration, it's essential to evaluate the wound's characteristics. Dermabond is suitable for small, clean, straight-edged lacerations that are not under tension.

• The wound should be thoroughly cleaned with saline or sterile water before application.
• Bleeding should be controlled before applying Dermabond.
• The wound edges should be held together precisely, and a thin layer of Dermabond should be applied over the laceration, extending slightly beyond the edges.
• The adhesive should be allowed to dry completely for 2-3 minutes before releasing the edges. Dermabond offers several advantages for earlobe repairs, including quick application, no need for suture removal, and the creation of a waterproof barrier that reduces infection risk 1. However, it's crucial to note that Dermabond is not appropriate for all earlobe lacerations.
• Complex tears, jagged wounds, heavily bleeding lacerations, or those involving cartilage should be repaired with traditional suturing.
• Patients should be instructed not to pick at the adhesive and to keep the area dry for the first 24-48 hours. By following these guidelines and considering the wound's characteristics, Dermabond can be a effective and convenient option for closing earlobe lacerations, prioritizing morbidity, mortality, and quality of life as the outcome 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

For external use only. For external use only. Do not use Do not use on damaged or broken skin The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Dermabond for Earlobe Lacerations

• There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that specifically addresses the use of Dermabond for earlobe lacerations 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• However, study 4 mentions that tissue adhesives, such as Dermabond, are similar in patient satisfaction, infection rates, and scarring risk in low skin-tension areas and may be more cost-effective.
• Study 2 demonstrates that Dermabond is safe to use in neurosurgery patients undergoing lumbar or cervical procedures, with only 1 patient of 200 having a proven infection.
• Studies 3, 5, and 6 discuss various techniques for earlobe repair, including the use of deep polypropylene sutures, laser ablation, and different types of closure techniques, but do not mention the use of Dermabond specifically.

Earlobe Repair Techniques

• Various techniques are available for earlobe repair, including straight-line closure, Z-plasty, flaps, and non-surgical techniques 6.
• The choice of technique depends on the surgeon's and patient's preference, and complication rates and morbidity are relatively low 6.
• Study 5 describes a minimally invasive earlobe repair technique that involves concomitant surgical closure and CO2 laser skin vaporization, producing excellent cosmetic results for torn or disfigured earlobes.
• Study 3 discusses the use of a deep polypropylene suture during earlobe repair to provide permanent reinforcement and reduce the risk of recurrent tract elongation.