ABSTRACT

The progressive tension sutures decrease flap necrosis and hypertrophic scarring by preserving the distal flap perfusion. Additionally, it reduces seroma and hematoma formation by reducing the dead space volume. In conclusion, although increasing the operation time, it may be a useful method for decreasing local complica-tions. (Gazi Med J 2012; 23: 66-9)

The mean follow-up was 11 (6-26) months. No hypertrophic scar formation, flap necrosis, infection, sero-ma, or hematoma developed. Minimal localized fat necrosis in 1 patient (5%) and pulmonary embolus in 1 patient (5%) occurred. Both patients healed uneventfully.

Nineteen female abdominoplasty patients were included in this study. The mean age was 42 years (35-59). The progressive tension sutures were placed from the superficial fascia to the deep fascia as the flap was advanced

The most common local complications following abdominoplasty are flap necrosis, hypertrophic scar formation, seroma, and hematoma. Progressive tension sutures were introduced in order to decrease the local complications. In this study, we present our experience in progressive tension sutures in abdominoplasty patients.