Optimal Time for Staple/Dressing Removal

The Influence of the Timing of Staple and Dressing Removal After Cesarean Section on the Surgical Incision Healing

The medical literature does not provide sufficient information or recommendation regarding the optimal time to remove the staples and the bandage after a cesarean section. The goal of this study is to compare 5 groups of patients:

1. staple removal on POD 4 and dressing removal on Post Operative Day (POD)1
2. staple removal on POD 4 and dressing removal on Post Operative Day (POD)4
3. staple removal on POD 7 and dressing removal on Post Operative Day (POD)1
4. staple removal on POD 7 and dressing removal on Post Operative Day (POD)7
5. staple removal on POD 4 and dressing removal on Post Operative Day (POD)7

Since there is no definite protocol for staple and dressing removal, we will adapt the above protocol each for a 3-4 month period of time. Patients will be contacted to either return for a follow up visit or to answer a telephone survey.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients undergoing a cesarean section at our facility

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients lost to follow up