Usefulness of Irradiated Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl Rapide) for Skin Suturing during Surgery for Lateral Ray Polydactyly of the Toes in Children.

BACKGROUND: This study describes the use of a bioabsorbable suture for skin suturing during surgery for lateral ray polydactyly followed by favorable postoperative outcome without the need for postoperative suture removal.

METHODS: A 5-0 Vicryl Rapide suture was used for skin suturing during surgery for lateral ray polydactyly in 9 children (mean age, 12.4 mo). Children were allowed to walk and bathe 2 weeks after surgery when over-the-suture taping therapy was started.

RESULTS: In all cases, the Vicryl Rapide suture disappeared completely within 3 weeks of surgery, and no removal of residual suture was required. No postoperative complications, such as suture abscess, wound dehiscence, or ulcer, were observed. During a mean 24-month postoperative follow-up, no elevation of the interdigital space due to hypertrophic scarring or scar contracture was observed, and no revision surgery was required.

CONCLUSIONS: Although the breaking strength of Vicryl Rapide declines within the first 10 days after surgery, this property will unlikely lead to postoperative wound dehiscence due to a relatively light load being applied to the lateral toes. The use of a bioabsorbable suture for skin suturing during surgery for lateral lay polydactyly is highly beneficial as it eliminates pain caused by suture removal and the risk of tissue damage while reducing the burden on medical staff.