Comparing suture types for better scar outcomes in patients with skin of color
Official title: Impact of Suture Type on Pigment Disturbances in Patients of Skin of Color: A Prospective, Randomized Split-wound Study
Run by University of Pittsburgh · NCT05408117 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether dissolvable or non-dissolvable stitches lead to better-looking scars for patients with skin of color after surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 34 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Pittsburgh Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | August 29, 2027 |
| Study ends | October 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 4, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05408117 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with skin of color (NIS skin color 4 or greater) who require dermatologic surgery with a wound length of 3 cm or more.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with high-tension closures, known allergies to suture materials, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the impact of two types of sutures—dissolvable (fast gut) and non-dissolvable (polypropylene)—on cosmetic results related to scarring and dyspigmentation in patients with skin of color. Participants undergoing standard elliptical excisions will have their wounds divided into two halves, each receiving a different suture type. Measurements of scarring and pigment changes will be taken at various intervals post-surgery. The study aims to determine which suture type yields better aesthetic outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved cosmetic results and reduced pigment disturbances for patients with skin of color undergoing dermatologic surgery.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of comparing these suture types in patients of skin color is novel, similar studies have shown varying success in optimizing surgical outcomes based on suture materials.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 18 years or older 2. Undergoing dermatologic surgery with planned standard elliptical excision with wound length of 3 cm or greater. Benign and malignant lesions will be included, including those that have undergone Mohs micrographic surgery prior to standard linear closure. All body sites will be included. 3. Able to give informed consent 4. Able to return for 3 month follow up 5. New Immigration Scale (NIS) skin color 4 or greater - The NIS is an 11 point scale, ranging from zero to 10, with zero representing albinism and 10 representing the darkest possible skin. Exclusion Criteria: 1. High-tension closures not amenable to 5-0 simple running epidermal sutures 2. Known allergy to suture material 3. Pregnant
Where it's running
-
UPMC Presbyterian
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting -
UPMC St. Margaret
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting -
UPMC Shadyside Place
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Melissa Pugliano-Mauro, MD — University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Melissa Pugliano-Mauro, MD
- Email: puglianomauroma@upmc.edu
- Phone: 412-784-7350
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.