A Comparison of Three Methods Of Skin Closure By Using Subcuticular Vicryl Suture, Metallic Skin Stapler And A Steri-Strip Adhesive Tapes

S. AL-Saffar MBChB, Raad; CABS,

	A Comparison of Three Methods Of Skin Closure By Using Subcuticular Vicryl Suture, Metallic Skin Stapler And A Steri-Strip Adhesive Tapes
KUFA MEDICAL JOURNAL
Article 1, Volume 11, Issue 1, 2008, Pages 508-518
Authors
Raad S. AL-Saffar MBChB;
Abstract
Background: Several new methods of skin closure had been used in surgical practice, and they are acceptable alternative to conventional trans cutaneous suture method, these are; buried subcuticular vicryl suture, skin clips or stapler, and steri-strip adhesive tape. Thus the objective of this trial was to assess the impact of these closure methods on closure time, postoperative incision pain, potential wound complications, cosmetic outcome, and patient satisfaction. Methods: 75 patients undergoing different elective and emergency operations were enrolled in this prospective randomized trial. They were divided into 3 groups, in each group(n=25), the incision closed by one of 3 methods: subcuticular vicryl suture, skin clips(stapler) or steri- strip adhesive tape. Closure time was assessed in theatre ; postoperative incision pain was assessed at day 1 and day 5 postoperative. wound complications, and procedure patient satisfaction were assessed in the first 10 postoperative days. Assessment of cosmetic scar appearance was evaluated at 4 weeks follow up after operation. Results: There was significant demographic difference among the three groups (p<0.05). There were no significant differences reported in postoperative incision pain (by visual analogue scale), wound complications (seroma, infection, dehiscence, and granuloma), patient procedure satisfaction, and cosmetic scar appearance(p>0.05). The skin stapler method was faster than other 2 methods (p<0.05). Conclusion: The three methods of skin closure (subcuticular buried vicryl, skin clips or stapler and steri- strip) are not routinely plasticizing methods of skin closure in our surgical practice, but they are acceptable new methods and had equal chance of surgeon preference, except in regard to the speed of closure, the skin stapler method is superior to other 2 methods.

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