Patient Preferences Comparing Linear Versus Purse String Closures in Dermatologic Surgery Utilizing a Novel...

Area of Science:

• Dermatologic surgery outcomes
• Patient preference in surgical techniques
• Cosmetic surgery research

Background:

• Patient inquiries regarding cosmetic results after cutaneous surgery are common.
• This study investigates patient preferences between two common skin closure methods: linear and purse-string.
• A novel survey method utilized simulated skin to gauge opinions on closure techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ascertain patient preference between linear and purse-string skin closure.
• To evaluate patient opinions on scar characteristics impacting cosmetic appearance.
• To assess the perceived importance of scar appearance and the utility of visual aids (simulators, photographs) in understanding closure methods.

Main Methods:

• Prospective recruitment of participants for a survey.
• Analysis of collected data using descriptive statistics.
• Application of the chi-square test of association to determine statistical significance.

Main Results:

• A majority of participants (54.7%) favored linear closure over purse-string closure.
• Preference for closure type was not significantly influenced by gender or prior experience with either closure method.
• Patient photographs were highly influential (86.2%) in preference determination, while simulator devices were deemed useful for education (88%).

Conclusions:

• The survey methodology offers a valuable approach for patient education.
• Incorporating patient preferences into decision-making for dermatologic procedures is feasible.
• Visual aids are effective tools for informing patients about surgical closure options and outcomes.