Surgical advancements have revolutionized medical practices by constantly exploring methods to optimize the patient experience. However, the healing process of drainage tube holes has been relatively overlooked. Considering its significant impact on patient recovery, researchers Rui Fu, Jia-Tao Zhang, Song Dong, Ying Chen, Chao Zhang, Wen-Fang Tang, Jin Xia, Qiang Nie, and Wen-Zhao Zhong aimed to improve the method of suturing drainage tube holes in their study titled “Drainage Tube Hole Suture Improvement: Removal-Free Stitches.” This article presents their findings, evaluating the safety and effectiveness of this improved technique.
1. How does the improved suture method affect wound splitting?
The intervention group, which received the improved method of subcuticular and intradermal suture with removal-free stitches, demonstrated better wound healing outcomes compared to the control group. Out of 71 patients in the intervention group, only three individuals (4.23%) required resuturing due to wound splitting. In contrast, the control group, receiving conventional mattress sutures, had five patients (16.13%) experiencing wound splitting. This significant difference suggests that the improved suture method effectively reduces the occurrence of wound complications.
2. What was the aim of the surgical method improvements?
The primary goal of the surgical method improvements was to optimize the patient experience during thoracoscopic lung resection. Specifically, the researchers targeted the suturing technique used to close drainage tube holes. By enhancing this aspect, they aimed to minimize postoperative complications, improve wound healing, and ultimately enhance patient recovery.
3. What are the evaluation results of scars between the intervention and control group?
The researchers assessed the objective and subjective conditions of scars using two evaluation scales: the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). At one month after surgery, the intervention group (n = 71) demonstrated significantly superior results compared to the control group (n = 31) in terms of scar evaluation (P < 0.05). This indicates that the improved suture method leads to improved scar healing outcomes, enhancing the aesthetic appearance for patients.
4. How does the improved suture method impact the patient experience?
The improved suture method not only reduces the occurrence of wound splitting but also contributes to an overall enhanced patient experience during video-assisted thoracic surgery. By utilizing removal-free stitches and a subcuticular and intradermal suture approach, patients experienced improved wound healing and scar appearance. This positive impact on the patient’s physical appearance can significantly boost their confidence and psychological well-being during the recovery process. Therefore, the improved suture method plays a crucial role in maximizing the patient’s recovery experience.
5. How was the study conducted and what were the findings?
The study involved 102 patients who underwent thoracoscopic lung resection (single port or single utility port) between December 2017 and August 2018. These patients were divided into two groups: the intervention group and the control group. The intervention group (n = 71) received the improved method of suturing drainage tube holes with subcuticular and intradermal suture and removal-free stitches. In contrast, the control group (n = 31) received conventional mattress sutures and fixed chest tubes.
The researchers analyzed the baseline clinical features of the patients and found a balance in the characteristics between the two groups. There were no significant differences in postoperative pain three days after surgery or postoperative hospital stay. However, the intervention group experienced significantly lower rates of wound splitting that required re-suturing compared to the control group (P < 0.05).
The incidence of other postoperative complications, including pleural fluid outflow, wound infection, post-removal pneumothorax, chest tube prolapse, and incisional hernia, did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, the intervention group demonstrated superior results in scar evaluation based on the VSS and POSAS scales (P < 0.05).
The study’s findings confirm that the improved suture method utilized in video-assisted thoracic surgery significantly enhances scar healing outcomes, improving the aesthetic appearance for patients. This approach balances safety and aesthetic results, ultimately optimizing the patient recovery experience.
Source: Drainage Tube Hole Suture Improvement: Removal-Free Stitches
Disclaimer: While I have a passion for health, I am not a medical doctor and this is not medical advice.
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