Dermatological surgery: an update on suture materials and techniques. Part 1

Area of Science:

• Dermatologic Surgery
• Wound Closure Techniques

Background:

• Surgical suture materials and techniques for dermatologic surgery show significant variation.
• Current wound closure methods include sutures, staples, and topical adhesives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest evidence on suture materials and wound closure techniques in dermatologic surgery.
• To evaluate outcomes such as scarring, pain, patient satisfaction, cost, infection, and wound complications.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, PubMed, and Embase.
• Keywords included 'skin surgery', 'dermatologic surgery', 'sutures', 'suture techniques', 'suturing techniques', and 'surgical techniques'.
• Relevant English-language articles were identified for review.

Main Results:

• Absorbable superficial sutures may be preferred over nonabsorbable sutures by patients and surgeons.
• Subcuticular sutures may be superior to simple interrupted sutures for superficial wound closure.
• Skin staples may have a role in dermatologic surgery, especially on the scalp.

Conclusions:

• Limited evidence currently supports specific suture materials and techniques in dermatologic surgery.
• Further high-quality research, including multicenter randomized trials, is required.
• Investigating patient preference and objective outcomes is crucial for advancing wound closure practices.