Suturing Versus Adhesive Strips for Skin Biopsy Site Closure: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Justification

• Rationale: Skin biopsy sites are traditionally closed using sutures, which are reliable but time-intensive and can cause discomfort and scarring. Adhesive strips offer a less invasive, faster, and potentially more patient-friendly alternative.
• Gap in Knowledge: Limited studies exist in the Indian context evaluating the efficacy and safety of adhesive strips for skin biopsy closures. This research aims to fill that gap and provide evidence for their clinical utility.

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Objectives

• Primary objective:

• To compare the cosmetic appearance of healed wounds between sutured closures and adhesive strip closures.

• To evaluate patient satisfaction with the closure method in terms of pain and cosmetic appearance.

• To assess the incidence of wound complications, including dehiscence, infection, and hematoma, in both groups.

• Secondary objectives

• To compare the time required for wound closure using sutures versus adhesive strips.

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Methods

• Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial.
• Setting: Institute of DVL, RGGGH & MMC, Chennai.
• Population: Patients requiring incisional biopsies; exclusions include patients below 18yrs age, pregnancy/lactation, patients with connective tissue disease, patients with venous insufficiency disorders who need skin biopsy over lower limb, patients with scleroderma, bleeding diathesis, documented uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
• Sample Size: 90 participants (45 per group), calculated with an 80% power and 5% alpha level.
• Procedure: Patients randomized into adhesive strip or suture groups. Biopsies performed under local anesthesia with routine aseptic precautions. Closure methods recorded for wound appearance, patient satisfaction, wound complications, operative time and followed up at 1- & 2-weeks post-procedure.

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Expected Benefits

• Clinical Impact: Determine whether adhesive strips improve wound appearance, patient comfort and satisfaction and can reduce procedure time
• Practical Application: Provide cost-effective and less invasive options for skin biopsy closure, enhancing patient-centered care.