After the patient has received (local) anesthesia and the wound bed has been debrided and prepared for closure, approximate the wound edges and close with sutures¹.

Minimize tension to avoid wound dehiscence, scarring and necrosis by not only suturing on an epidermal level, but also on a dermal level. For dermal closure, absorbable sutures can be used. Sutures on the lower extremity can be removed after 10-14 days. Adhesive tapes (Steri-Strips), staples and glue are also options for primary wound closure.

Be aware: one of the most common mistakes is to aim for primary closure in situations when the amount of healthy skin is insufficient. This results in closure of the skin under tension, leading to secondary wound breakdown, often with necrosis, and a larger defect than the original wound.