Long-Term Outcome of Pediatric Traumatic Wound Repair: Suture Versus Tissue Adhesive

Investigation of the long-term outcome of 300 pediatric patients with traumatic skin lacerations in the head area. After primary wound repair with suture or with tissue adhesive, eligible patients will be enrolled on the emergency department (baseline visit). The second follow-up visit will take place 5-10 days after the baseline visit and the third follow-up visit will be completed 6-12 months after trauma. At both follow-up visits, clinical examination and a brief interview will be performed. Photo documentation is completed at both the baseline and the follow-up visit.

Encrypted photo documentation will be evaluated by blinded external plastic surgeons. Primary Outcome is the cosmetic appearance using standard assessment scales, secondary outcomes are the occurrence of complications, cost-effectiveness and patient's satisfaction.

Inclusion criteria

• 0 till16 years of age
• Any primary wound repair treatment of a laceration caused by trauma and involving the skin of the head area
• Patient or caregiver must be able to understand and sign an informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Pre-existing conditions that affect wound healing adversely
• Patients who demonstrate severe or life-threatening injuries
• Patients / caregivers with communication / logistic barriers that would make them unfit to provide informed consent or to attend the follow-up visits