1. Inspect and clean the wound, provide local anesthesia for adequate cleansing and debridement of any devitalized structures, assure hemostasis, close the dermis as needed, and assure that surface edges are easily apposable before applying Histoacryl®.
   
   
2. For wounds at risk for tension, before applying Histoacryl® to the skin surface, provide relief of potential stress along the wound line by approximating wound edges with subcuticular sutures.
   
   
3. Remove the cap of the plastic vial to expose the sterile, single patient use ampoule.
   
   
4. Before opening the ampoule, hold it in one hand with the tip pointed upward.  Sharply flick the tip with the forefinger of the other hand to remove any adhesive trapped in the tip during transit.  While still holding the ampoule in the vertical position, snip or cut the closed tip end of the ampoule to open.
   
   
5. To express Histoacryl® from the ampoule tip, apply light pressure to the ampoule.
   
   
6. Appose tissue edges with forceps and hold in apposition while applying Histoacryl® and for approximately 30 seconds after application to allow Histoacryl® to cure and to prevent seepage between wound edges.
   
   
7. Apply Histoacryl® to the easily apposed wound edges very sparingly, either as minute drops or as a very thin film along the top edges of the wound.  Avoid heavy application.
   
   
8. After applying Histoacryl®, maintain light pressure along the wound line to maintain apposition for approximately 30 seconds to allow the adhesive to cure.
   
   
9. After Histoacryl® application is completed, discard the ampoule with any remaining adhesive by placing the ampoule in the original plastic vial and placing the original cap back on the vial.

PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS     Download PDF

The following information should be shared with the patient:

• If possible, avoid contact with water for the first 24 hours after treatment and minimize contact with water for an additional 7-10 days.  Patients may shower or bathe but allow only transient wetting of the treatment site.  The site should not be scrubbed, soaked or exposed to prolonged wetness for 7-10 days.

• Do not apply any medications or cream to the wound.

• Keep the wound dry with a non-stick, non-medicinal and water resistant bandage, per your doctor’s instructions.

• Do not pull or pick at the wound or bandage.

• Avoid extreme physical activity that might dislodge or impact the wound surface.

• Report any discomfort, redness, drainage, swelling or other concerns regarding your wound to your doctor.