The prevention and treatment of skin tears provide a unique challenge, especially in older individuals. This case study evaluated a cyanoacrylate liquid skin protectant for the treatment of skin tears in 20 patients who were residents of a long-term care facility in Ontario, Canada. Individuals were eligible for the study if they presented within 4 hours with a type 1 (no flap loss) or type 2 skin tear (minimal flap loss). After wound cleansing, cyanoacrylate liquid skin protectant was applied to the wound edges. The skin tears were evaluated at 0, 3 and 10 days. Complete closure of all 20 skin tears was observed within 10 days after a single application of cyanoacrylate. No associated problems were reported and patients reported minimal or no pain. In conclusion, one application of a no-sting cyanoacrylate liquid skin protectant is a viable option for type 1 and 2 skin tears, and can provide patients with increased comfort, minimal to no pain, and no signs or symptoms of infection.
