Continuous versus interrupted sutures for facial surgery repair: a randomized prospective study.

Background: The cosmetic appearance of a facial scar is a concern for patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Although suturing technique may influence scar cosmesis, few studies have been published comparing suturing methods for MMS repair.

Objective: To compare the cosmetic appearance of facial MMS scars sutured with either continuous or interrupted percutaneous nylon sutures.

Methods: Patients with facial MMS defects were randomized to have half their scar sutured with interrupted 5-0 nylon stitches, whereas the other half of the scar was closed with running 5-0 nylon stitches. The appearance of each half of the scar was assessed at 1 week, 8 weeks, and 6 months by the principal investigator. Blinded photographic evaluation at 1 week and 6 months was completed by a plastic surgeon and general dermatologist.

Results: A total of 105 patients were entered into the trial, and 101 completed all time point assessments. There was no statistically significant difference in scar outcome using each of the 3 scar assessment scales, at any time point, for any assessor (blinded and nonblinded).

Conclusions: Interrupted and continuous 5-0 nylon sutures result in an equivalent final cosmetic appearance of facial MMS scars. Given its advantages, running sutures may be the preferred closure technique for facial repair.