A modified running subcuticular suturing technique for the closure of defects after Mohs micrographic surgery.

Background: The running subcuticular suturing technique is useful for the closure of surgical defects with minimal tension.

Objective: To determine the safety and efficacy of a modified running subcuticular suturing technique for the closure of facial wounds produced by Mohs micrographic surgery.

Methods: Five patients between the ages of 58 and 92 years, each with one Mohs defect on the face, were studied. One half of each defect was repaired with simple interrupted sutures, and the other half was repaired using the modified running subcuticular technique.

Results: There were no major differences in cosmetic outcome of the surgical sites at suture removal and at 1-week and 3-month follow-up examinations. No surgical complications occurred in any of the patients studied.

Conclusion: We demonstrate that the modified running subcuticular suturing technique may be a safe and effective alternative for the primary, layered closure of defects from Mohs micrographic surgery.