A revolutionary advance in skin closure compared to current methods
Angela Piñeros-Fernandez1, Lisa S Salopek, Pamela F Rodeheaver
1University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908-1351, USA.
Journal of Long-Term Effects of Medical Implants
|March 29, 2006
Summary
The new Insorb absorbable staple significantly reduced infection rates in contaminated wounds compared to Vicryl sutures and metal staples. This wound closure method offers better outcomes and aesthetic results.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Surgery
- Wound Healing
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Foreign materials in wound closure increase infection risk.
- Synthetic sutures and metal staples are common, with varying infection rates.
- An absorbable polymer staple (Insorb) for subcuticular closure has been developed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of the Insorb staple against Vicryl suture and metal staples in closing contaminated wounds.
- To evaluate infection incidence, closure time, inflammation, and aesthetic outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Six pigs underwent full-thickness abdominal skin wound contamination with Staphylococcus aureus.
- Wounds were closed using Insorb staples, Vicryl sutures, or metal staples.
- Infection was assessed clinically and via bacterial swabs at 7 days.
Main Results:
- Insorb staples showed the lowest infection rate (33%), followed by metal staples (44%).
- All wounds (100%) closed with Vicryl sutures became infected.
- Insorb closure resulted in reduced closure time, less inflammation, and better aesthetics compared to Vicryl.
Conclusions:
- The Insorb absorbable staple is a superior choice for closing contaminated wounds compared to Vicryl suture, demonstrating significantly lower infection rates.
- Insorb staples offer comparable closure time to metal staples without the need for removal.
- The Insorb staple represents a significant advancement in subcuticular skin closure technology.