Performance comparison of nylon and an absorbable suture material (polyglactin 910) in the closure of punch biopsy sites

The ability to close biopsy sites primarily without the need for removing s utures is obvious. However, it was unclear whether absorbable sutures could be used for this purpose, We prospectively studied 10 healthy volunteers o n whom one 3 mm punch biopsy was performed on each arm. In each subject two sutures were compared for closure of the biopsy sites, polyglactin 910 and nylon. Our primary goal was to compare absorbable and nonabsorbable suture s in the closure of punch biopsy sites. Each site was closed with one simpl e percutaneous suture. The sites were evaluated at 2 weeks and 6 months for redness, infection, dehiscence, scar hypertrophy, and patient satisfaction . We found no statistically significant difference between the two suture m aterials in any of the above parameters. Therefore we conclude that absorba ble sutures are a good alternative in the primary closure of skin biopsy si tes.