A review of sutures and other skin closure materials.

More than ever, dermatologic surgeons are faced with a multitude of suture and other closure materials when evaluating a surgical wound. Given there is no single material that is ideal for all situations, the physician must decide which material is best suited for that particular closure. This review seeks to summarize the major properties of common suture materials as well as other closure materials including adhesive tapes, glues and staples.