The role of sutures and fibrin sealant in wound healing

Sutures and fibrin sealant are important surgical aides for facilitating wound closure and creating an optimal setting for wound healing. Most commonly, sutures are used to close wounds, as suturing material provides the mechanical support necessary to sustain closure. Fibrin sealant, in contrast, is a biologic tissue adhesive that can function as a useful adjunct to sutures. Fibrin sealant can be used in conjunction with sutures or tape to promote optimal wound integrity, or it can be used independently to seal wound sites where sutures cannot control bleeding or would aggravate bleeding. Considerations when choosing an appropriate suture or sealant for wound closure and healing include strength of suture, holding power of tissue, amount of absorbability, risk of infection, and inflammatory reaction associated with suture material.