Wound Closure Device: A Small Miracle Tool for Preventing Scar Expansion

The Wound Closure Device, also known as the needle-free skin tension reduction suturing device, is primarily used to reduce the tension on both sides of an incision, thereby preventing the widening of hypertrophic scars. It is commonly applied in areas with significant skin tension post-surgery or trauma, such as the chest, abdomen, back, and limbs. It is one of the most common adjunctive means in scar prevention and treatment.

Working Principle of the Wound Closure Device

Tension on both sides of a wound can cause it to widen, leading to larger and broader scars. To avoid this, the wound closure device can be used to decrease the skin tension on both sides of the wound, controlling the broadening of scars and allowing them to heal finer and narrower. After applying thewound closure device perpendicular to the wound, it can be tightened by pulling it towards both sides. Generally, it should be tightened to a state where the skin shows slight texture. 

How to Use the Wound Closure Device

Choose the appropriate wound closure device based on the specific situation of the surgery or wound.

• Thoroughly clean the skin incision or scar with an alcohol swab and dry it. Cut the wound closure device to an appropriate length, remove the adhesive backing, and stick it evenly and symmetrically on both sides of the incision or scar.

• Gradually tighten each of the barbs on the wound closure device to reduce the central gap to 1-2cm. Avoid over-tightening at once; it can be adjusted gradually.

• Cut off the excess exposed barbs to prevent injuries or interference with daily activities during movement.

• When replacing or removing the wound closure device, peel it off parallel to the direction of the incision or scar from both sides simultaneously. Different directional traction forces can affect scar formation.

Precautions for Using the Wound Closure Device

• The wound closure device is mainly used on relatively flat areas of the torso that require strong tension reduction; it is best to avoid excessive movement of the surgical area, such as the chest, abdomen, back, and limbs, especially around joints;

  
  

• Do not use the wound closure device on skin that is infected, damaged, or affected by other skin conditions;

  
  

• Avoid over-tightening the barbs on the wound closure device to prevent complications like tension blisters;

  
  

• Keep the adhesive areas dry as moisture can reduce adhesiveness, leading to loosening or displacement of the wound closure device. Strive to keep the adhering skin dry.