Comparison of scar outcomes of alar flare region using absorbable and non-absorbable sutures: a single-blind study

Abstract

Objective:

Formation of scar on the face after septorhinoplasty may disturb the patient due to cosmetic concerns. One of the main factors affecting scar outcomes is probably the suture material used. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of different suture materials on scar outcomes of alar base in patients undergoing septorhinoplasty.

Methods:

Thirty-one patients who underwent alar base intervention during primary septorhinoplasty were divided into two groups according to the suture material used as the Polypropylene group (n = 16), (Polypropylene, Prolene 6/0; Ethicon Inc., Somerville, NJ, USA) and the Polyglactin group (n = 15), (Irradiated polyglactin 911, Vicryl Rapid^TM 6/0; Ethicon Inc., Somerville, NJ, USA). The scar outcomes of alar base were compared between the Polypropylene and Polyglactin groups. The modified Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale was used to measure wound healing results at one and 12-months postoperatively for objective evaluation. Patient satisfaction questionnaire was used for subjective evaluation.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in the Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale and patient questionnaire scores between Polypropylene and Polyglactin groups. Irradiated Vicryl Rapid had poor cosmetic outcomes in the alar base when compared to polypropylene, indicating no statistically significant difference.

Conclusion:

Both sutures can be used for closure of alar base considering their advantages and disadvantages, in patients undergoing septorhinoplasty.

Level of evidence:

Treatment Benefits; Level 2 (Randomized Trial).

KEYWORDS
Polyglactin 910; Polypropylenes; Rhinoplasty; Cicatrix; Surveys and questionnaires

HIGHLIGHTS

During septorhinoplasty, alar base interventions are performed frequently.

One of the major factors affecting the scar outcome is the suture material used.

Absorbable sutures were reported to provide favorable cosmetic outcomes on skin wounds.

There is no study investigating scar outcomes of alar base using different sutures.

Vicryl rapid has worse scar outcomes on alar base compared to Polyproplyene.