Comparing Steri-Strip and surgical staple wound closures after primary total knee arthroplasties

Background

Steri-Strips (3M, Two Harbors, MN, USA) have recently been employed for skin closures after orthopedic surgeries. Here we compare the performance of Steri-Strips and skin staples for wound closure after primary total knee arthroplasties (TKAs).

Methods

A total of 76 consecutive osteoarthritic knees (71 patients) that underwent a primary TKA at our facility were included in this study. Thirty-eight knees received Steri-Strips for wound closure and were evaluated prospectively. The other 38 knees were closed with skin staples (Staple group) and evaluated retrospectively.

Results

No deep or superficial infections developed in this series. Although Steri-Strips detached from three knees during the 10-day postoperative period, no dehiscence was observed. Thirteen knees developed blisters around the surgical incision in the Steri-Strip group compared with five knees in the Staple group. The average operative time for the Steri-Strip group was 60.6 min (SD 7.3) compared with 54.1 min (SD 6.9) in the Staple group. There were significant differences in operative time (p < 0.001) and tourniquet time (p < 0.001) between the two groups. The average time until patients were permitted to start showering was significantly shorter in the Steri-Strip group (p = 0.0496). The material cost for Steri-Strips was approximately $3.00 USD for one operation compared with $26 USD for skin staplers.

Conclusions

Wound closure with Steri-Strips after a TKA does not require postoperative material removal and may have improved safety, comfort, cosmesis and cost-effectiveness compared with traditional skin closures.

Level of evidence

Level II, Prognostic study.