J Reconstr Microsurg 2011; 27(5): 277-286
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1275491
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Evaluating the Use of a Barbed Suture for Skin Closure during Autologous Breast Reconstruction

Shareef Jandali1 , Jonas A. Nelson1 , Meredith R. Bergey1 , Seema S. Sonnad1 , Joseph M. Serletti1
  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
24 March 2011 (online)

ABSTRACT

This study compared the use of barbed suture to a traditional skin closure method for incision closure in free flap breast reconstruction. A retrospective study compared the two closure methods in consecutive series of patients undergoing autologous breast reconstruction between January 2007 and January 2009. Outcomes included total duration of operation and wound complications. We also performed a cost analysis. Use of the barbed suture significantly decreased operative time for unilateral cases by an average of 45 minutes (405 versus 360 minutes, p = 0.02). For bilateral cases, the mean operative time was decreased by an average of 10 minutes (510 versus 500 minutes, p = 0.44). There were more episodes of delayed wound healing in the bilateral barbed suture group (33/46 [72%] versus 15/31 [48%], p = 0.04). No statistical difference was noted between the two groups with regard to dehiscence, infection, or suture extrusion. Use of the barbed suture was, however, more cost-effective. The use of a barbed suture in the closure of abdominal and breast incisions in free flap breast reconstruction may expedite wound closure and reduce the cost of the procedure but may increase wound complications.

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Shareef JandaliM.D. 

Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania

3400 Spruce Street, 10 Penn Tower, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Email: Shareef.jandali@uphs.upenn.edu

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