Use of subcuticular absorble sutres in paediatric cases of complicated appendicitis

ABSTRACT

Modern surgical practice and use of appropriate antimicrobial therapy have rendered earlier methods of wound care in complicated appendicitis unnecessary. We performed primary wound closure with absorbable subcuticular stitches in 51 children with complicated appendicitis. The wound healed nicely in all patients except three who developed infection that was easily managed by simple drainage and did not lead to any major complication. The use of subcuticular absorbable stitches obviates the necessity of traumatic daily dressing changes, leaves an excellent scar and decreases hospital stay and cost