Title:Comparison of Wound Infection in Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis by Subcuticular Suture and Interrupted Suture
VOLUME: 21
Author(s):Farshad Zarei and Mojtaba Ahmadinejad*
Affiliation:Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Science, Khorramabad, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Shahid Madani Hospital, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj
Keywords:Wound infection, Subcuticular sutures, Interrupted sutures, Appendicitis, Suturing technique, Appendectomy
Abstract:Background: Postoperative complications such as; wound infection and scaring are some of the major concerns
regarding suturing techniques. This study is designed to evaluate post-operative outcomes of adhering subcuticular sutures
in comparison to interrupted suturing method in patients who underwent appendectomy for uncomplicated acute
appendicitis.
Methods: 240 patients were randomly assigned into two groups; 120 with interrupted and 120 subcuticular sutures after
appendectomy, at Shohada Ashayer hospital, Khorramabad, Iran. The prevalence of wound infection, three days after the
surgery in the hospital and a week after discharged was determined and evaluated statistically.
Results: No wound infection was seen within three days of hospitalization in subcuticular group whereas, 1 patient reported
infection in interrupted group, however the difference was not statistically significant. A week after discharge, a patient was
reported to have wound infection in subcuticular group and 2 in interrupted group. No significant difference was seen in this
regard either. 55 females and 66 males received subcuticular sutures whereas, 74 males and 46 females were given
interrupted sutures for wound closing. One male in interrupted and 1 male and female subcuticular group was referred for
wound infection, after discharge, respecitvely. Among these groups, no significant differences were seen. In catarrhal
appendicitis, infection was reported in interrupted group only which was not statistically significant.
Conclusions: Subcuticular sutures provide better cosmetic outcomes without any additional complications in comparison to
interrupted sutures.
