Sutures versus staples for wound closure in orthopaedic surgery: a pilot randomized controlled trial

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190 patients undergoing an orthopedic procedure requiring a wound closure greater than 2cm in length, were randomized to determine a superior method of closure between sutures and staples, in terms of minimizing wound complications over 6 weeks. The evidence presented in this study demonstrates that 42% of all patients reported a wound complication with similar rates between suturing and stapling. Suturing skin required more time to close wounds, while stapling resulted in greater pain upon removal at 2 weeks. Mean surgical time, and rates of infections were similar between groups. The authors of this study indicated that approximately 1100 participants are required to show a 25% risk reduction between sutures and staples where wound complications are concerned.