Background: This study evaluated tissue adhesives in comparison to sutures for treating facial lacerations in children.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from September 2017 to August 2022 involving pediatric facial lacerations managed with either tissue adhesives or sutures.
Results: Among 50 children, 20 received tissue adhesives, and 30 received sutures. Both methods showed comparable outcomes in terms of wound complications such as dehiscence (adjusted odds ratio = 1.56, 95% CI = 0.08-31.25) and infection (adjusted odds ratio = 2.17, 95% CI = 0.08-58.80). The cosmetic outcomes, assessed using the Hollander Wound Evaluation Score, were also consistent between groups (adjusted beta = -0.55, 95% CI = -1.15-0.05). Notably, those treated with tissue adhesives reported greater satisfaction (adjusted beta = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.63 -1.63) and experienced significantly less pain (adjusted beta = -3.03, 95% CI = -4.15--1.90).
Conclusions: Both techniques displayed similar rates of infection, dehiscence, and cosmetic outcomes. However, tissue adhesives were associated with increased patient comfort, especially in terms of reduced pain and greater satisfaction.
Keywords: child; laceration; suture; tissue adhesives; wound.