An initial evaluation of subcuticular skin closure with absorbable intradermal pins

A skin-approximating instrument has been developed to facilitate rapid subcuticular skin closure of surgical incisions using intradermally placed absorbable pins. A prospective, randomized, double-blind study was conducted comparing wound healing characteristics of incisions closed using the intradermal pins and those closed using a subcuticular closure with a synthetic braided absorbable suture. Wounds were evaluated for cosmetic effect, closure accuracy, comfort, and speed of closure by the surgeon, an independent observer, and the patient. Incisions closed using both techniques resulted in equally excellent wound healing characteristics. The instrument facilitated a significantly more rapid closure than the characteristically time-consuming technique of sewing by hand.