Comparison between sutureless skin edge apposition by using adhesive tape and subcuticular suture on pacemaker implantation

Objective To compare the time taken and the healing results of sutureless skin edge apposition by using adhesive tape with subcuticular suture in patients undergoing pacemaker implantation.Methods All patients were divided into group A(n=190):Patients were allocated to sutureless skin edge apposition by using adhesive tape after the closure of subcutaneous tissues by discontinuous suture and group B(n=120):Patients were allocated to subcuticular suture by using an absorbable 4/0(Coated VICRYL).Results The time applied for sutureless skin edge apposition by using adhesive tape was 54% less than that of subcuticular suture.(5.9±1.0 min vs 12.7±1.8 min,P0.001).Incisions in both groups of patients healed well one week after pacemaker implantation.All incision healed well in both groups.The proportion of sutureless skin edge apposition with surrounding erythema was smaller than that of subcuticular suture.During 90-day follow up,4 patients were found suture exposure in group B while none in group A.Conclusion Sutureless skin edge apposition using adhesive tape,with the advantage of shorter time for application and better cosmetic and healing results,can be adopted as a routine method during pacemaker implantation.