Avoiding stitch abscesses in subcuticular skin closures: the L-stitch.
A potential problem with the standard method of skin closure in pediatric surgery is the development of a skin abscess. To avoid this problem, we introduce a new stitch--the L-stitch. The technique involves passing the suture subcuticularly at the end of the incision and redirecting the needle at a 90 degree angle from the previous suture, before bringing it out to the skin surface. This stitch can be used in place of the initial and finishing knot of a running suture. It takes less time to perform than a square or a surgeon's knot and is less bulky. This technique is straightforward and, when used in conjunction with adhesive skin closure strips, provides strong, reliable skin closure, yielding excellent cosmetic results.
Mahabir
Raman C
RC
Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta. raman_chaos@hotmail.com
Christensen
Blair
B
Blair
Geoffrey K
GK
Fitzpatrick
Donald G
DG
D000038:Abscess / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013536:Suture Techniques; D013537:Sutures