C-section - Sutures or Staples

Updated on February 10, 2010
R.H. asks from Fort Worth, TX
9 answers

I had an emergency C-section with my son in August of 2006, and am having a planned C-section in April with my second child. I had staples the first time, and it was not a great experience for me. In light of the recent study touting sutures as a better option, I'm curious about the difference. What is the downside of sutures, or the upside of staples? I did heal pretty quickly, but never thought of attributing that to the staples until I started researching this topic.

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L.L.

answers from Dallas on

I think the scarring may have more to do with the patient's scarring process than anything else. I've had all three -- sutures, staples and glue -- and for me, all healed equally as well with very little scarring at all. All the scars look the same, no differences for me. I'm not prone to keloidal scars, so I think for me any option is fine. Maybe if you're keloids, one would be better than the other but talk to your Dr.

I did have sutures that broke when my Dr was taking them out. I ended up having them for years afterwards and were only removed after during my c-s. They would itch from time to time, but that was the only side effect from the sutures.

I'd discuss with your surgeon and see what he or she prefers. He or she may prefer one method over the other and I'm sure would be happy to discuss with you.

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S.H.

answers from Honolulu on

Sutures.

I had 2 c-sections.

My Ob/GYN only does sutures, throughout all those layers when closing up the surgery & incision.
BIG difference as well in healing and scar tissue.
The nurses, have told me that my Ob/GYN is only one of the very few who does sutures in c-sections. Most others use staples.
The nurses told me it makes a big difference and that it looks like a work of art.

I did not have to go back to have anything removed.

All the best,
Susan

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J.J.

answers from Dallas on

For the most part you don't get a say - each doctor has his/her own way of closing the surgical site. I am an OB nurse - my preference is sutures that self disolve - but they are the most time consuming for a doctor to do. Staples are quick - but have to be removed. The dermabond (glue) is used by very few doctor's where I work - but I have not ever had a problem with it. Usually steristrips get placed when staples get removed.... your scarring will depend on many factors - not really how the site was "closed" - it more depends on your skin elasticity, skin tone and color.

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L.S.

answers from Reno on

I've had 2 C-sections with staples each time and my scar has healed wonderfully each time, and I did not feel any discomfort in the hospital. Each time they took them out on the 3rd day and the nurse was so gentle. The only thing was this last time, the assistant on my left side put some of the staples in crooked, which were a little uncomfortable coming out, but nothing major. I've heard good reviews of sutures though, so it's personal choice :) Congrats on your second upcoming arrival!

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S.P.

answers from Indianapolis on

I would have to agree with Laura. I have had two c-sections - the second planned and the ob/gyn used "glue" both times and the scar is almost invisible and it healed beautifully and very quickly. Never a problem with the incision - it was great. I don't even know it is there! I know sounds weird saying. The first time I was worried about it holding because it just sounded so weird but it was the easiest thing. Try asking about it - I think you will be happy with it! :)

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A.G.

answers from Norfolk on

I actually had surgi-strips which are like stickers. They fell off and I was healed up within a week. They worked really well, but I don't know the advantages of the other methods. Also I don't know that all OBs would be willing to let you choose, I think they usually use whatever they are comfortable with.

T.F.

answers from Dallas on

I had staples with my complete hysterectomy in 2001 and had no issues whatsoever. You can hardly see my scar now, with the help from vitamin E oil and care. I never had swelling of my belly or any negative effects.

My best friend had her hysterectomy about 4 months after mine and she they used glue to seal her incision. She never had any negative issues either.

We both did great and are super happy with our newfound freedom !!

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L.S.

answers from Las Vegas on

I had neither-I was glued-I forget the name of it, but it is like glue and had no problems. L.:)

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L.S.

answers from New London on

I don't know, but I am from a family of surgeons and they all say use sutures.

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