Comparative Study on the Wound Outcome Following Staples Versus Nylon Suture for Skin Closure of Surgical Wound in Clean Orthopaedics Surgeries

Skin closure is a critical component of orthopaedic surgery, influencing wound healing, postoperative recovery, patient comfort, and complication rates. Staples and nylon sutures are commonly used for skin closure; however, evidence regarding their comparative effectiveness remains inconclusive. To compare wound outcomes following the use of staples versus nylon sutures for skin closure in clean orthopaedic surgeries, with emphasis on wound healing rate, pain on removal, and cost effectiveness. A prospective randomized controlled trial was directed among 66 patients undergoing clean elective orthopaedic surgeries. Individuals were randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (staples, n=33) and Group B (nylon sutures, n=33). Patients were evaluated for wound healing, pain during removal using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), cost effectiveness, and postoperative complications. Statistical analysis was executed using Student’s t-test and Chi-square test, with p<0.05 considered substantial. Patients treated with staples experienced significantly lower pain during removal. However, nylon sutures demonstrated superior wound healing outcomes and were significantly more cost effective. Delayed removal and postoperative dressing requirements were more frequent in the staples group, while surgical site infections occurred only among patients receiving staple closure. Although staples were associated with less pain during removal, nylon sutures provided better wound healing, greater cost effectiveness, and fewer postoperative complications. Nylon sutures may therefore be considered the preferred skin closure method in clean orthopaedic surgeries.