Is there supposed to be staples left after reconstructive surgery?

Question

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!  Both sutures and staples are effective means for closure of surgical incisions. It is a matter of preference, with most likely using sutures, however, staples are not wrong.  There may have been other reasons for his/her method of closure. Discuss this with your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns. Best wishes!

Jacqueline Anne Luong, MD · Answer

Staples are generally used to close the skin incision and therefore are usually removed after surgery.  However small clips may be used during surgery to prevent blood vessels from bleeding and these are not removed and will show up on imaging studies such as xrays.

Kelly R. Kunkel, MD · Answer

Staples are used with many types of surgery, including cosmetic as well as reconstructive procedures.  Probably every surgeon in the US has used staples to close different types of wounds and incisions at some point in his/her training and career.  Staples are typically removed at some time after the operation.  The length of time staples may be left in place depends on a number of factors.  The question as it is worded is really too broad to answer.  Call your surgeon's office and discuss your concerns with him/her.

Is there supposed to be staples left after reconstructive surgery?

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Is there supposed to be staples left after reconstructive surgery?

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