Mitigating Hair Loss Among Scalp Laceration Repair Techniques: Review of the Literature

Scalp lacerations represent a significant portion of traumatic wounds treated in emergency settings, presenting unique challenges due to the scalp's high vascularity and tension on closure. This study explores primary closure techniques for scalp defects, focusing on sutures, staples, and the hair apposition technique (HAT). Given the cosmetic and psychological implications of hair loss associated with scalp laceration repairs, effective closure methods are paramount. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of sutures, staples, and HAT in minimizing hair loss and enhancing cosmetic outcomes. Out of an initial 21530 literature sources, 7 studies were included in this analysis, selected through a comprehensive screening process. Findings suggest that while traditional methods like sutures and staples are widely used, HAT shows promise in reducing complications and preserving hair. The study underscores the importance of selecting appropriate closure techniques to optimize patient satisfaction and overall care quality.