I really hope not, but just in case you ever need to make the decision, suture or staple, here was my experience after stapling a knee laceration:

Pros:

1. No novacain shots to numb the suture area - worst part of getting sewn up IMO

2. Removal is easy, the come out like butter - very very easy to do, and no pain.

3. Fast insertion - basically just using a staple gun.

4. Worried about scar holes? Not so....no evidence of stapling holes.

Cons:

1. No novacain shots to numb the suture area. But less pain than the damn shots.

2. Probably don't hold as tight as a good suture, but not bad.

3. Staples can protrude a bit.

4. Poor Scrabble possibilities. Only three letters - M or E when removed, and D when in skin.

Overall, staples are recommended.

you forgot W, so you can spell out mew mew mew

Had some experience with these things. The patient does not really have a say on this. It's not a matter of choice between sutures or staples that any patient can make when going to the ER to get any laceration fixed up. Basically, a few factors would have to be taken into consideration by the attending physician that will ultimately determine his/her decision to use either technique in approximating the laceration. Physicians went through intensive and rigorous didactic, internship, and residency training in order to be knowledgeable, proficient, and get qualified (or licensed) in their chosen profession. If patients will dictate the course of care, they might as well not see a doctor and just do whatever they have to do to take care of themselves.

I don't completely agree with this. Physicians do have years of training and may or may not present to you the option of staples or stiches. But, that doesn't mean it would hurt to ask why they choose one over the other. Patients do have the right to informed consent and choice.

Patients do have the right to informed consent. More so especially if the patient is medically knowledgeable.

The patient obviously does have a say, otherwise pharmaceutical companies would not be pumping $billions into TV and radio ads for every manner of prescription drug "if you have these symptoms, talk to your doctor...and by the way there is a possibility your head may explode or your dick may fall off...and don't take the drug while you operate heavy machinery"


In the case of staples, it probably depends on whether the doc has an air compressor and pneumatic stapler handy to play with

Looks like some meat was left on one of the staples.

Chuck Norris would use rusted barbed wire and pull them out with his teeth.

Chuck Norris is my idol. I wear a special edition Chuck Norris fanny-pack for special rides....just ask Barcy or Robo.

Worked as a trauma and icu nurse for several yrs now; and the use of staples vs sutures definitely varies upon the location of your laceration. Most efficient docs will use staples if they can as it is easier for them too! (no compressor needed haha).

The great point you all make is that physicians and all healthcare workers should better explain the decision being made about a pt's care. Unfortunately the fast pace of the environment lends the provider with great excuses and a poor habits of not completely explaining his/her actions.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. This can slow things down and often give you the opportunity to educate the MD what your personal preferences for treatment are...there are often more than one Right way to do something! The only way you may know or have the option to do something different is if you or a loved one speaks up.