Use of Absorbable Cutaneous Sutures Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Paige Hoyer,Richard F Wagner, Jr,Julie Croley

doi:10.25251/skin.5.2.9

Paige Hoyer, Richard F Wagner, Jr + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.25251/skin.5.2.9

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Abstract

The use of absorbable epicuticular sutures is highlighted as a measure to decrease the number of patient visits, eliminating the risk of additional exposures for patients and medical staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. We present a case where the use of absorbable epicuticular sutures was preferred over non-absorbable sutures. Studies have shown no significant difference in cosmetic outcomes between non-absorbing suture and absorbable suture. Many patients express anxiety over the thought of suture removal, and often ask if the sutures will “dissolve on their own” during the surgery. Use of absorbable top sutures is one way surgeons can help allay this fear, and studies have shown similar patient satisfaction between absorbable and non-absorbable sutures. Additional stress may be prominent during the current pandemic. Dermatologic surgeons should strongly consider the use of absorbable cutaneous sutures during this pandemic, as this likely improves patient and staff safety, and studies have shown similar cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Highlights

Absorbable cutaneous sutures are an option for dermatologic surgeons to decrease the number of times “high risk” patients return to the clinic, eliminating additional potential exposures for patients, surgeons, and medical staff to COVID-19
After discussion with the patient, a primary closure was pursued. She was very anxious about returning to the clinic for suture removal, and absorbable surface sutures as an alternative to traditional non-absorbable sutures was preferred by the patient
Patients with chronic kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity, compromised immune systems, and heart disease are at a much higher risk of significant morbidity and mortality from COVID-19.5 The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the use of absorbable sutures during the current pandemic as well.[6]

Summary

Introduction

Absorbable cutaneous sutures are an option for dermatologic surgeons to decrease the number of times “high risk” patients return to the clinic, eliminating additional potential exposures for patients, surgeons, and medical staff to COVID-19. She was very anxious about returning to the clinic for suture removal, and absorbable surface sutures as an alternative to traditional non-absorbable sutures was preferred by the patient. Absorbable simple interrupted 5-0 plain gut surface sutures were used to further approximate the wound edges (Figure 1).

Results

Conclusion