Suture strips

Wound closure strips, also known as Steristrips or Steri-Strips, are a proven method for treating minor wounds and cuts. They offer a gentle alternative to traditional sutures and are particularly suitable for use in first aid care as well as in postoperative wound treatment. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about wound closure strips, their application, advantages, and how they compare to conventional methods.

What are wound closure strips and how do they work?

Wound closure strips are special adhesive strips used to hold the edges of a wound together and support the healing process. They are made from a hypoallergenic, flexible material that is adhesive on both sides to gently pull the skin around the wound together and promote healing.

Wound closure strips are often used to close minor wounds or cuts, especially when they are too small for sutures or when suturing would be too invasive. They are also an excellent option for patients who are sensitive to stitches or where the risk of scarring should be minimized.

Advantages of using wound closure strips

• Gentle wound care: Wound closure strips provide an atraumatic method for closing wounds. Since they do not pierce the skin, they minimize the risk of tissue damage and infections.
• Minimized scarring: By gently holding the wound edges together, wound closure strips promote rapid and even healing, reducing the risk of scarring. This is particularly important in cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face or hands.
• Easy application: Compared to traditional sutures or staples, wound closure strips are easy and quick to apply. They do not require special medical knowledge or tools and can be easily used in home care.
• Flexibility and comfort: Wound closure strips are flexible and adapt to the movements of the skin, increasing wearing comfort and not restricting the patient's mobility.
• Cost savings: Since no special medical devices or anesthesia are required for the application of wound closure strips, they offer a cost-effective solution for wound care.

When should wound closure strips be used?

Wound closure strips are ideal for smaller, superficial wounds for wound care that do not bleed heavily and are clean. The most common areas of application include:

• Small cuts and tears: Ideal for superficial injuries that require quick healing without the use of needles or threads.
• Postoperative wound care : Can be used after minor surgical procedures to support the skin after the surgical suture has been removed.
• Cosmetically sensitive areas: Particularly useful for the face, neck, and hands where minimal scarring is desired.
• Wounds with low tension: Wounds where the skin is not under tension and the edges can be easily approximated are ideal for wound closure strips for minor wounds often plasters especially wound plasters. For somewhat larger wounds, often wound dressings and a tubular bandage are used. Additionally, a bandage fixation is required.

How to properly apply wound closure strips

1. Wound cleaning: Thoroughly clean the wound with an appropriate agent for skin disinfection to minimize the risk of infection. Carefully dry the skin around the wound using a swab.
2. Skin preparation: Ensure the skin around the wound is dry and grease-free. If necessary, use a skin protection film to enhance adhesion.
3. Application of wound closure strips: Gently bring the wound edges together and apply the first strip across the middle of the wound. Add additional strips parallel to fully stabilize the wound edges. Ensure the strips are applied evenly and without wrinkles.
4. Aftercare: Regularly check the wound for signs of infection or irritation. Replace the strips as needed or if they become loose.

Wound closure strips vs. conventional sutures

Wound closure strips offer a less invasive alternative to conventional sutures or staples. While conventional sutures are necessary for deep, complex, or heavily bleeding wounds, wound closure strips provide several advantages for smaller, superficial wounds. They are less traumatic to the skin, reduce the risk of scarring, and are more comfortable for the patient.

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