A disposable skin stapler (Proximate; Ethicon) was compared with conventional nylon sutures in respect of time taken for wound closure, cosmetic result and ease of application and removal. It was found that a time saving of 80% is possible with the stapling device, and that the cosmetic result with staples is as good as if not better than that with nylon sutures. A certain amount of experience and practice facilitates the use of the stapler.