Suture Compared With Staple Closure of Skin Incision for High-Order Cesarean Deliveries
When closing the skin incision for a cesarean delivery, the options include surgical clips (staples) and sutures. In women undergoing their first or second cesarean delivery, most data suggest that using suture is associated with fewer wound complications, specifically infection and separation (the wound reopening). However, most studies do not include women undergoing their third or higher cesarean delivery, which can be much more technically challenging operations.
Since MFM Associates is a referral practice for women undergoing complicated and higher-order cesarean deliveries, we have extensive experience with this complicated operation. In this study, published in Obstetrics and Gynecology in March 2017, we found that suture closure was associated with a lower rate of wound complications in women undergoing their third or higher-order cesarean deliveries as well. This study could help other doctors decide how to best close the skin incision for their patients as well.
Maternal Fetal Medicine blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!
