A Retrospective Analysis Evaluating Hydrophilic Polymer and Potassium Ferrate as an Alternative to Sutures for Pediatric Punch Biopsies

Punch and shave biopsies are common dermatologic procedures that carry risks such as infection, bleeding, and permanent scarring, and the standard method of closing punch biopsies > 3 mm relies on suturing and the body's innate coagulation cascade. Hydrophilic polymer and potassium ferrate (HPPF) provides a rapid alternative that achieves hemostasis, seals the wound, and potentially reduces procedural anxiety in pediatric and adolescent patients while also eliminating the need for suture removal. In this retrospective study comparing sutures and HPPF for 3-5 mm punch biopsies, minimal complications were observed overall, with sutures causing one instance of dehiscence or bleeding, whereas HPPF did not. Additionally, suture use was overrepresented in head and neck sites, whereas HPPF was more frequently used for back sites, demonstrating that HPPF offers a cost-effective and efficient closure method in pediatric patients.