CompletedNot Applicable

Comparison of Cosmetic Outcome and Patient Satisfaction Between Staples and Suture Technique for Wound Closure Following Upper Limb Surgeries

Nepal80 participantsStarted 2022-11-01

Plain-language summary

Surgical wound closure is an essential component of postoperative care that influences wound healing, infection rates, cosmetic appearance, and patient satisfaction. Sutures are conventionally used for skin closure following orthopedic procedures; however, surgical staples have gained popularity because of their rapid application, secure fixation, and potentially superior cosmetic outcomes. Despite their widespread use, there remains limited evidence comparing cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction between staple and suture techniques in upper limb surgeries in the local setting. This study aims to compare the cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction between staples and sutures for wound closure following upper limb surgeries at Dhulikhel Hospital. Secondary objectives include comparing wound infection rates and duration of hospital stay between the two techniques. A prospective comparative study is conducted among adult patients undergoing upper limb surgeries. Patients fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria are recruited consecutively during the study period. Following completion of surgery, wound closure is performed either with interrupted sutures or surgical staples according to the operative plan. Wounds are to be evaluated on postoperative day 2, day 7, and day 14, with further follow-up at 30 days and 6 weeks. Cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction are assessed using a 5-point Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Pain assessment, wound complications including infection, and duration of hospital stay are also documented and compared between the two groups. The findings of this study can help identify the optimal skin closure method for upper limb surgeries and contribute to improved postoperative outcomes and patient satisfaction. HYPOTHESES OF THE STUDY Null hypothesis (Ho): there is no difference in cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction between sutures and staple technique for wound closure following upper limb surgeries. Alternative hypothesis (H1): there is difference in cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction between sutures and staple technique for wound closure following upper limb surgeries Hence, Ho : (Cosmetic and Patient satisfaction score) in Suture group = Cosmetic and Patient satisfaction score) in Staples group H1 : (Cosmetic and Patient satisfaction score) in Suture group ≠ (Cosmetic and Patient satisfaction score) in Staples group

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adult patient (\> 18 years and above) * Any wound more than two centimeters in length * All closed fracture of upper limb requiring open reduction and internal fixations * All implant removal and benign tumor excision of upper limb Exclusion Criteria: * Open upper limb fracture * Known metal allergy(nickel, titanium) * Active infection * Malignant tumor excision * Tendon repair * Closed Reduction Percutaneous Pinning

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Since this trial compared staples versus sutures for closing wounds after upper limb surgeries, can you tell me which technique was used in my case, or which one you plan to use for my procedure, and why?
2This study measured cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction — do the results suggest one closure method leaves a noticeably better-looking scar than the other for upper limb wounds?
3Since wound dehiscence was one of the conditions being studied, did the trial show any difference in how often wounds reopened or had healing problems depending on whether staples or sutures were used?
4Given that this trial is now completed, have the results been published or shared anywhere, and could you help me understand what they mean for my specific surgery and skin type?
5Are there other factors in my individual situation — like the location of my incision on my arm or hand, my skin condition, or my activity level during recovery — that would make one closure technique a better choice for me regardless of what the trial found?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Cosmetic Outcome Assessed by 5-Point Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)

Timeframe: 1 year

Patient Satisfaction Assessed by 5-Point Satisfaction Scale

Timeframe: 1 year

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07633977

SponsorKathmandu University School of Medical Sciences

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2024-05-30

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Wound Closure Technique trials