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Holding It All Together

Posted on: Thursday, 18 August 2005, 18:00 CDT

Sutures Stitches are still used in many surgeries and wound treatments to hold skin, organs, blood vessels and other tissues together. They must be strong, flexible and not allow any leakage. There are nylon, silk and other synthetic materials and many different suturing techniques.

Staples They are quicker, more economical and cause fewer infections than stitches. They're the fastest way to close a large wound but can leave permanent scars if used inappropriately. Staples are used on scalp lacerations and to close surgical wounds, such as in hip replacements.

Tapes Adhesive strips have a lower rate of wound infection than stitches. They are easier and faster to apply and many people don't need a painful injection of anesthetic. But they are less precise in bringing wound edges together and some body areas such as palms, or soles, are difficult areas to place adhesive strips.

Super glues

Adhesive agents or super glues are the newest method of wound repair. They are an especially popular alternative for children because there is no needle. The wound still has to be cleaned but the adhesive can be applied to the edges of the wound to hold them together until healing occurs. The glues are often used for small lacerations on the eyebrows.

Source: Patriot Ledger, The; Quincy, Mass.

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