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Quantification of wound oedema after dermatological surgery
1Department of Dermatology, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, U.K. ejsefton@doctors.org.uk
The British Journal of Dermatology
|July 7, 2009
Summary
Postoperative wound swelling significantly increases suture tension after skin surgery, especially with wider excisions. Choosing elastic suture materials can help manage this wound expansion and reduce scar formation.
Area of Science:
- Dermatologic surgery
- Wound healing
- Biomaterials science
Background:
- Postoperative wound edema can increase suture tension, potentially leading to suture marks.
- Quantification of wound edema and suture material elasticity has not been previously reported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify wound expansion in the first 24 hours after skin surgery.
- To identify factors contributing to wound expansion.
- To assess the elasticity of commonly used skin suture materials.
Main Methods:
- Forty adult patients undergoing skin surgery were recruited.
- Wound expansion was measured 24 hours postoperatively.
- Eight suture materials were tested for stretch under increasing tension.
Main Results:
- All wounds exhibited postoperative expansion, averaging 1.0 mm laterally.
- Wound expansion correlated with the initial width of the excised wound.
- Most sutures were inelastic below 0.2 kg; Novofil showed the most stretch.
Conclusions:
- Significant wound edema occurs within 24 hours after skin surgery, particularly with wider excisions.
- Suture material and technique selection should account for potential wound expansion to prevent excessive tension.
