Avoiding stitch abscesses in subcuticular skin closures: The L-stitch

Raman C. Mahabir, Blair Christensen, Geoffrey K. Blair, Donald G. Fitzpatrick

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

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° 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.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)223-224
Number of pages2
JournalCanadian Journal of Surgery
Volume46
Issue number3
StatePublished - Jun 2003

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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