A randomized study comparing skin staples with subcuticular sutures for wound closure at caesarean section in black-skinned women

Abstract

This study aimed to compare patients' satisfaction and outcome of caesarean section wound closure by skin staples and subcuticular suture at discharge and 6 weeks of postoperation. It was a randomized controlled trial of pregnant women scheduled for caesarean section at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria, allocating them to wound closure by skin staples or subcuticular suture. Pain was assessed using the box numeric pain scale. Scar assessments were by patient, research nurse, and independent observers using the visual analogue scale, modified patient observer scar assessment scale, and patient satisfaction scale. Operation time (minutes) was significantly shorter in the staple group, 40.26 (±16.53) compared to 47.55 (P14.55) in the suture group (P = 0.025). Skin closure time (seconds) was significantly less in the staple group, 118.62 (±69.68) versus 388.70 (±170.40) in the suture group (P ≤ 0.001). There was no difference in pain experienced, wound assessment by the participants, and patients' satisfaction. Participants in the staple group scored higher on both scar assessment scales by the nurse (P = 0.044). Cost comparison analysis showed that staple use costs significantly more than suture use (P < 0.001). The perceived benefit of subcuticular suture over skin staples was not observed and participants were satisfied with both wound closure techniques.