Comparative Study between Novel Zipper Device Versus Sutures For Wound Closure After Surgical Site Incisions

Abstract Background: Traditional wound closure techniques, such as sutures, can cause localized trauma, ischemia, and discomfort. Novel zipper devices offer a minimally invasive alternative for surgical wound closure. Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of zipper devices versus sutures in closing surgical site incisions in clean wounds. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at SSG Hospital, Baroda, from January to June 2024. A total of 100 patients were randomly divided into two groups: 50 received closure with zipper devices, while 50 underwent closure with sutures. The study compared closure time, postoperative pain, wound complications, and cosmetic outcomes. Results: The mean closure time was significantly shorter with zipper devices (2.54 ± 0.42 minutes) compared to sutures (6.88 ± 0.56 minutes; p < 0.00001). Postoperative pain scores were lower in the zipper group on both Day 1 and Day 3 (p < 0.0001). The incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) was slightly lower in the zipper group (6% vs. 8% on Day 10, p = 0.9). Wound dehiscence was not observed in either group. Scar assessment favored the zipper device, with 80% of patients achieving good cosmetic outcomes compared to 60% in the suture group (p = 0.01). Conclusion: The use of zipper devices for surgical wound closure significantly reduces closure time and postoperative pain while improving cosmetic outcomes. Although the difference in infection rates was not statistically significant, the zipper device demonstrated a promising alternative to sutures with potential advantages in patient comfort and recovery. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.