A Comparative Analysis of Wound Closure Techniques in Uncomplicated Open Inguinal Hernia Surgery: Sutures vs. Skin Staplers

Abstract

Objective: This study compared the results of wound closure with skin staplers and traditional sutures in uncomplicated open inguinal hernia surgery. Methods: An 18-month prospective cohort study was carried out in a tertiary care facility. Patients (n = 100) who met the eligibility requirements were randomly assigned to one of two groups: suture (n = 50) or skin stapler (n = 50). We evaluated wound infection rates, wound healing times, postoperative pain levels, and aesthetic results. Chi-squared tests, t-tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used in the statistical analysis. Results: Skin staplers demonstrated lower wound infection rates (2% vs. 10%) and faster wound healing (10.5 ± 1.8 days vs. 14.2 ± 2.1 days) compared to sutures. Postoperative pain scores were consistently lower in the skin stapler group at 24 hours (2.4 ± 0.8 vs. 3.7 ± 1.2), 1 week (1.4 ± 0.6 vs. 2.1 ± 0.9), and 4 weeks (0.6 ± 0.3 vs. 0.9 ± 0.4) post-surgery. Skin staplers with a higher percentage of "excellent" results (54% vs. 14%) had better cosmetic results. Conclusion: In uncomplicated open inguinal hernia surgery, skin staplers are superior to conventional sutures in terms of lower wound infection rates, quicker wound healing, decreased postoperative pain, and enhanced cosmetic results. Surgeons’ ought to think about how skin staplers could improve patient satisfaction and outcomes. Inguinal hernia surgery wound closure techniques may be improved with further study and practical practice.