[Medizip surgical zipper: a new form of non-invasive wound closure with a surgical zipper].
OBJECTIVE
We describe the use of a new, non-invasive skin closure system (Medizip, Nycomed Pharma GmbH, Ismaning, Germany) in urological procedures.


METHODS
Between July and November 2002, 23 patients received non-invasive skin closure with a Medizip surgical zipper after urological procedures (13 radical prostatectomies, 3 suprapubic prostatic enucleations, 3 ablatio testis and 1 lumbal nephrectomy). Wound inspection was performed on day 3, day 8 and 6 weeks postoperatively.


RESULTS
No wound complication such as infection or separation occurred. Wound dehiscence was seen in two patients (2 and 3mm). The zipper was removed routinely on day 8 after surgery. Of the 23 patients, 22 were pleased with the cosmetic results and rated the Medizip agreeable to wear.


CONCLUSIONS
The Medizip surgical zipper is a safe, cosmetically satisfactory, cost-effective and time-sparing alternative to conventional suture material for skin closure.
Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn. Patrick.Bastian@gmx.de
P J
PJ
Bastian
A
A
Haferkamp
P
P
Albers
S C
SC
Müller
D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D052801:Male Urogenital Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D009392:Nephrectomy; D009919:Orchiectomy; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011091:Polyesters; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D011468:Prostatectomy; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology
D011091:Polyesters