J Korean Soc Emerg Med.  2024 Apr;35(2):175-180.

Analysis of complications associated with primary closure of scalp lacerations using a stapler

• Choi BH
• Jang JH

Abstract

Objective
Scalp lacerations are mostly treated with primary closure using staplers in the emergency department. This study examined the complications of patients who underwent scalp laceration closure with staplers over the past 5 years to identify the risk factors and indications for stapler closure.
Methods
Patients who visited the emergency department with scalp lacerations registered in the electrical medical records of the author’s hospital (2018-2022) were included. All included cases were categorized into two groups: patients without revision (group A) and with wound revision (group B). The general characteristics and the factors associated with complications (e.g., prior medical history and the length and location of wounds) were investigated.
Results
Among 794 emergency department and outpatient clinic visits, 751 and 42 patients were in groups A and B, respectively. The odds for revision were affected by wound length (odds ratio [OR]=3.996; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.905-8.383). The odds for revision were higher in a drunken state (OR=1.431; 95% CI, 0.686-2.984) and loss of consciousness (OR=1.629; 95% CI, 0.750-3.539). The prior medical history and wound location did not show a significant relationship with an increased risk of revision.
Conclusion
Scalp lacerations of 5 cm or more should be sutured using sutures rather than staplers, and additional research is needed on other factors that may cause complications.

Keyword

Scalp laceration; Surgical staple; Wound; Head injuries