THE ROLE OF SUTURES AND FIBRIN SEALANT IN WOUND-HEALING

Sutures and fibrin sealant are important surgical aides for facilitati ng wound closure and creating an optimal setting for wound healing. Mo st commonly, sutures are used to close wounds, as suturing material pr ovides the mechanical support necessary to sustain closure. Fibrin sea lant, in contrast, is a biologic tissue adhesive that can function as a useful adjunct to sutures. Fibrin sealant can be used in conjunction with sutures or tape to promote optimal wound integrity, or it can be used independently to seal wound sites where sutures cannot control b leeding or would aggravate bleeding. Considerations when choosing an a ppropriate suture or sealant for wound closure and healing include str ength of suture, holding power of tissue, amount of absorbability, ris k of infection, and inflammatory reaction associated with suture mater ial.