Gradual Elastic Suture (Shoelace Technique) Approximation and Platelet-Rich Plasma Infiltration Technique in the Closure of Open Fracture Wound and Infected Wound With Significant Skin Loss

Abstract

Infected wounds can be really hard to manage in cases of open fractures, chronic osteomyelitis, and superficial infection. When the skin is damaged, bacteria can quickly enter the underlying tissue and cause a potentially fatal infection. Regular wound dressing with antimicrobial agents has become available in vials as a way to decrease the chance of bacterial colonization and infection and speed up the healing of wounds. In this report, we discuss the shoelace suture technique and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) infiltration in the wound. Due to its ability to stimulate and fasten the healing of wounds, PRP is becoming more and more popular. The progressive suture approximation (the shoelace technique) is an easy and effective technique for gently approximating the skin borders. The cytokines and growth factors in PRP play a critical role in the healing process. Hence, the combination of these two techniques will reduce the need for hospitalization, lead to better aesthetic outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs.

Keywords: compound fractures; infected wound; platelet rich plasma infiltration; shoelace technique; wound management.