Abdominal wound closure comparing the proximate stapler with sutures.

Proximate staple closure of transverse and vertical abdominal wounds is compared with suture closure in a prospective, blind, randomized trial. Fifty-seven wounds were randomly allocated to 3/0 Prolene or Proximate staple closure. Each wound was photographed after removal of staples or sutures and again in the sixth postoperative week. The photographic slides were independently assessed by eight observers, who graded the cosmetic result of each wound on a scale from 1 to 10. The cosmetic score in transverse wounds closed with sub-cuticular sutures was better than with staples. Cosmetic scores in vertical wounds were almost equal for staples and sutures. Staple closure was faster than suture closure. Proximate staple closure is considered a suitable and faster method for vertical abdominal wounds.