Fibrin Glue for Persistent Pneumothorax in Neonates

Fibrin glue was used to treat significant pneumothoraces persisting for an average of 10 days in eight newborns. Six of the eight infants had reduction or resolution of persistent air leak within 24 hours of therapy. Two infants received a second course of therapy for recurrences. Complications encountered were bradycardia requiring manual ventilation (N=2), significant hypercalcemia (N=2), diaphragmatic paralysis (N=2), pneumothorax (PTX) on the contralateral side (N=1), and localized tissue necrosis (N=1). Fibrin glue is an effective treatment for intractable PTX but has significant risks.