Surgeons frequently find TissuePatch to have a learning curve. They may have problems until they get thoroughly used to the product, and may struggle with their first application. At Tissuemed we have described before how there is a “goldilocks zone” where the circumstances are “just right” for application. In particular we tell surgeons not to “fanny around” once the patch is on the tissue…yet without testing for adherence, how do you know your TissuePatch is securely in position? After all the very act of probing and testing for adhesion can actually hinder that adhesion…so how do you know when it’s “on” and you can leave it alone. Here are a few simple take-home messages from our experience.
Application… success predictors
- Have the patch close to the action…so it can be applied quickly post-swabbing, before the site becomes wet.
- If you need to cut to size, do so before application using either the packaging or some other material as a template. Cutting in situ post application can disrupt adhesion.
- Be patient and have faith. Don’t worry if it looks like it’s not going to work at first…if applied correctly it will! Hold the swab in place over the patch as steadily as possible and wait for about a minute….longer if required.
- Signs of fluid beneath the patch before it is properly applied to the tissue are not the end of the world. Applying a swab with gentle but positive downward pressure will force fluid out from under the patch, so don’t delay getting the swab in place over the patch, especially in wet sites
- Never use suction close to the patch because you may either damage the patch itself or disrupt its adhesion.
Post-Application… how do I know it’s on?
- Liquid beneath the patch post application is usually a bad sign… if it’s anywhere other than around the very periphery of the patch, you may not have enough adhesion to the tissues. Remove patch, attempt more thorough drying and apply another.
- Patch should look wrinkled and conforming to tissue surface with an almost skin-like appearance and no visible blisters or tears. If it looks like this you’ve done it. If it doesn’t, consider either a further application of swab for a further minute…or (more likely)abort and try a fresh patch.
Note, these are not official recommendations and don’t appear in Instructions for Use. They are a few thought provokers from our experience of observing surgeons at work….especially surgeons who’ve “got it” after a few attempts.
If you’ve got more “what if this happens?…questions please email us here