Related Experiment Videos
Cost analysis of stapling versus suturing for skin closure
M Orlinsky1, R M Goldberg, L Chan
1University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Skin stapling is a more cost-effective method for closing linear lacerations compared to traditional suturing. This cost advantage for skin stapling increases with the length of the laceration.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Surgical Innovation
- Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Background:
- Skin closure is a common procedure in emergency medicine.
- The cost-effectiveness of different skin closure methods is an important consideration for healthcare providers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the costs associated with skin stapling versus suturing for linear lacerations.
- To test the hypothesis that there is no significant difference in cost between the two methods.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, prospective study design was employed.
- Linear lacerations were randomly assigned for closure with either staples or sutures.
- Data collected included wound length, closure time, and materials used.
Main Results:
- The average total cost per case for stapling was $17.69 (with suture kit) and $7.84 (without suture kit), compared to $21.58 for suturing (P = .0001).
- Stapling demonstrated a statistically significant cost reduction over suturing.
Conclusions:
- Skin stapling is a less costly method for closing linear lacerations than suturing.
- The economic benefit of skin stapling over suturing is more pronounced with longer lacerations.