Simple skin closure.

Abstract

Traditionally, general surgeons in the UK have shown little concern for the results of skin wound closure unless the wounds have undeniable cosmetic importance, as in surgery of the face, neck, or breasts. However, in recent years greater significance has been attached to the scarring and other complications that may result from skin sutures. Various techniques of wound closure, sutures, staples, clips, and other materials are now available to the surgeon. This article reviews these recent developments.