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November 17, 2005

Super glue for medical emergencies

Many people have super glue around the house or on the work bench, but not many people carry it around when traveling and that needs to change. Super glue comes in an extremely small, lightweight package, stores very well, and doesn't need its own container. A single tube can take you around the globe and back. It's almost indestructible when it comes to repairing broken items on one's journey, or even fixing automotive problems in the field until a real repair can be made. I suggest you carry it for another reason: medical emergencies.

Super glue has been around forever in the medical community in various forms. It was used in Vietnam to suture wounds on the field. I was also used to suture a wounded liver together, as it was almost impossible to sew due to the fragility. Not only suturing deep open wounds or replacing stitches, it forms a synthetic barrier between the wound and potential germs, almost like a second skin. Those that have constant open wounds on their hands due to the drying affects of salt water immersion have used super glue for years to keep from feeling the sharp pain of salt water in these wounds. It's also invaluable for hikers and trekkers for covering wounds on the feet and preventing further moisture injuries.

It's very simple to use; simply cover the affected area with a small amount of glue and wait for it to dry. For open wounds such as cuts or lacerations, pinch the cleansed, dry skin together and apply glue at the seam. The "bandage" will fall off in 3-5 days, and the wound will have started self-sealing.

There are several over the counter choices made specifically for medical uses, however most are not as strong as super glue itself. A good choice made for medicinal purposes that does retain much of the strength (with additional flexibility) is VetBond. It has a handy blue dye embedded in the glue, aiding in application and allowing you to see the status of the bandage.

Standard super glue can be bought at most any local store. If you don't have some already, put it in your next travel or survival pack.

Posted by Beau Gunderson at November 17, 2005 1:42 PM

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