A modified running subcuticular suturing technique for the closure of defects after Mohs micrographic surgery.
BACKGROUND
The running subcuticular suturing technique is useful for the closure of surgical defects with minimal tension.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the safety and efficacy of a modified running subcuticular suturing technique for the closure of facial wounds produced by Mohs micrographic surgery.


METHODS
Five patients between the ages of 58 and 92 years, each with one Mohs defect on the face, were studied. One half of each defect was repaired with simple interrupted sutures, and the other half was repaired using the modified running subcuticular technique.


RESULTS
There were no major differences in cosmetic outcome of the surgical sites at suture removal and at 1-week and 3-month follow-up examinations. No surgical complications occurred in any of the patients studied.


CONCLUSIONS
We demonstrate that the modified running subcuticular suturing technique may be a safe and effective alternative for the primary, layered closure of defects from Mohs micrographic surgery.
Streams
Brian N
BN
Department of Dermatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
Jiang
S Brian
SB
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005145:Face / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015580:Mohs Surgery / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013536:Suture Techniques; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*