Is there a simpler way to treat traumatic wounds? This prospective study challenges conventional wisdom by exploring the effectiveness of closing lacerations with sterile adhesive strips *without* extensive cleaning. The research details the outcomes of treating 147 lacerations using this unconventional technique, offering a cost-effective alternative for casualty departments. Data analysis revealed a low sepsis rate of 1.4% among compliant patients, with a total complication rate of only 2.7%. These results suggest that, in certain situations, this method can be a viable option, even when ideal conditions are not available. The study acknowledges that this approach contradicts established practices. This research has significant implications for resource-limited settings and situations where quick and efficient wound closure is essential. While further investigation may be warranted, this study provides a compelling argument for considering sterile strips as a valuable tool in traumatic wound management, with both clinical and economic advantages.
This article, published in the Postgraduate Medical Journal, addresses practical challenges in patient care, aligning with the journal's focus on providing relevant and accessible information for medical practitioners. Its exploration of a simplified wound closure technique offers a potentially valuable contribution to clinical practice, particularly in resource-constrained environments.