Background: The authors evaluated the available evidence regarding the use of adhesive strips for the management of surgical incisions and compared them with sutures and other closure materials. Study design. Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Results: Twelve RCTs studying 1317 incisions in 1023 patients were included. No difference was found regarding the development of infection (odds ratio [OR] = 0.47; 95% Confidence interval [CI] = 0.12-1.85), dehiscence (OR = 1.22; 95% CI = 0.32-4.64), and overall cosmetic result (standardized mean difference = 0.01; 95% CI = -0.19 to 0.20). Closure with strips resulted in significantly lower incidence of redness (OR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.37-0.89). The available data on pain, need for resuturing, swelling, patient satisfaction, and closure time with the use of strips could not be synthesized; however, regarding the latter 2 outcomes, application of strips seemed favorable. There was significant heterogeneity among the studies.
Conclusions: The findings suggest that adhesive strips may be an efficient closure material for certain small-length incisions. Further research is warranted on outcomes such as dehiscence and the need for resuturing.