Photo Credit: Nuttawan Jayawan

The following is a summary of “Aesthetic outcome of intermediate closure versus intermediate closure followed by 2-octyl cyanoacrylate: A randomized evaluator-blinded split-wound comparative effectiveness trial,” published in the March 2024 issue of Dermatology by Kwapnoski, et al.

Using surgical adhesives alongside suturing in dermatologic surgery is increasingly common, yet comparative studies still need to be conducted. For one study, researchers sought to assess the cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction regarding wound care with an intermediate suture closure alone versus combined with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate (2-OCA).

In a randomized, evaluator-blinded, split-scar study, 50 patients underwent intermediate sutured closure of a surgical defect. One side of the wound was randomly assigned to receive an additional application of 2-OCA. At the 3-month follow-up, scar assessment was conducted using the POSAS tool, and patients reported wound care preferences.

The mean sum of observer POSAS was 12.80 for sutured closure alone versus 12.40 for sutured closure, followed by 2-OCA (P = .49), indicating no significant difference in scar cosmesis. Although not statistically significant, patients and observers preferred the side with an additional 2-OCA application in most POSAS components, overall opinion, and patient wound care satisfaction.

While no significant disparities in scar cosmesis were noted, patients and observers preferred additional 2-OCA applications and reported enhanced satisfaction with wound care. Thus, dermatologic surgeons may consider integrating 2-OCA into their practice without compromising scar outcomes or patient satisfaction.

Reference: jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(23)03031-1/abstract