Advantages of Using a Skin Stapler in Head and Neck Surgery

Abstract

In 12 cases of head and neck surgery, use of a disposable skin stapler (Proximate®; Ethicon) was compared with nylon sutures with respect to time required for wound closure and the cosmetic result. Time required for closure was reduced by 90% using the stapling device, and cosmetic appearance was satisfactory compared to that with nylon sutures. With regard to safety, we found that the staples were not exposed into the subcutaneous space when subcuticular suture was performed. It was concluded that stapling is satisfactory in head and neck surgery with regard to safety and cosmetic results.