Comparing two types of stitches for surgical wounds

Outcomes of Running Locking Suture vs Standard Running Suture in Surgical Wounds: a Randomized Evaluator-blinded Split-wound Comparative Effectiveness Trial

Not applicable Interventional University of California, Davis · NCT06288009

This study is testing whether using a special type of stitch or a standard stitch after surgery on the head and neck leads to less scarring and better-looking results for patients.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, Davis Academic / other
Locations1 site (Sacramento, California)
Trial IDNCT06288009 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares the effectiveness of running locking sutures versus standard running sutures in reducing scarring after surgical procedures on the head and neck. Patients undergoing cutaneous surgery will have one side of their wound closed with standard sutures and the other side with locking sutures. The goal is to evaluate which technique results in less scarring and better aesthetic outcomes. By analyzing the healing process and post-operative complications, the study aims to provide insights into optimal wound closure methods.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older scheduled for cutaneous surgical procedures on the head or neck requiring primary closure.

Not a fit: Patients with wounds shorter than 3cm or those who are pregnant or incarcerated may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical techniques that minimize scarring for patients undergoing facial and head surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on various suturing techniques, the specific comparison of running locking sutures to standard running sutures for scar reduction is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years of age or older
* Able to give informed consent themselves
* Patient scheduled for cutaneous surgical procedure on the head or neck with predicted primary closure
* Willing to return for follow up visit

Exclusion Criteria:

* Incarceration
* Under 18 years of age
* Pregnant Women
* Unable to understand written and oral English
* Wounds with predicted closure length less than 3cm

Where this trial is running

Sacramento, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ScarringRunning Locking Suture
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.