|
 The single-use, disposable Insorb Subcuticular Stapler is used to close an abdominoplasty (left); same-day results shown (middle) and results 10 days post-op (right). (Photos courtesy of Incisive Surgical, Plymouth, Minn.) |
The Insorb Stapler is a single-use, disposable device. The staples are composed of a poly-lactic acid/poly-glycolic acid (PLA/PGA) copolymer; staples are delivered via the Insorb Stapler using forceps. The staples, placed through a tissue path created by two surgically sharpened needles, securely fasten the approximated edges of tissue. Over the course of a few months, the body absorbs them via a process of hydrolysis.
 |
Robert T. Stroup, M.D., F.A.C.S., chief of plastic surgery at Hillcrest Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, and private practitioner at Advanced Concepts in Plastic Surgery in South Euclid, Ohio, says he sees both potential pros and cons to the new device.
"The main advantage to using this device would be a significant time savings," he says. "There is less anesthesia time and, therefore, this is safer and less costly for the patient."
 Dr. Vogt |
Dr. Vogt agrees and says that, not only is there a learning curve for the stapler device and the technique itself, but also for selecting ideal candidates and surgical procedures.
"Initially, it was a little bit like if you have a hammer in your hand," he explains, then "the whole world looks like a nail." But his two years of experience have provided valuable insights with regard to technique and candidate selection. "Because of the nature of the staple," he points out, "I think the better use for it is in the thicker subdermal and fatty layer. Very lean patients with low body mass indexes or post-bariatric patients, for example, generally are not good candidates."
In very thin patients, Dr. Vogt says, "The staples may protrude against the skin and possibly erode through the skin before they have a chance to absorb," not only opening an avenue for infection, but causing the patient considerable discomfort as well.
