Can a dermatofibroma be removed using fully absorbable sutures by a doctor?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 21, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Dermatofibroma removal can be performed using fully absorbable sutures by a doctor, but the choice of suture material should prioritize slowly absorbable monofilament sutures to minimize the risk of incisional hernia and wound complications. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, where the doctor removes the dermatofibroma using an elliptical excision and closes the wound with absorbable sutures, such as polyglactin (e.g., Vicryl) or polydioxanone (PDS), which absorb within 2-8 weeks 1. The use of absorbable sutures is practical, as they do not require removal, reducing the need for follow-up visits and minimizing the risk of infection. In terms of wound healing, absorbable sutures perform as well as non-absorbable ones. After the procedure, the wound area should be kept clean and dry for a few days, and the patient should be given instructions on wound care and monitoring for potential complications 1. Generally, recovery is quick, and the scar heals well. It is essential to note that the choice of suture material should be based on the most recent and highest-quality evidence, which suggests that slowly absorbable monofilament sutures are the preferred choice for minimizing the risk of incisional hernia and wound complications 1. Some key points to consider when performing dermatofibroma removal using fully absorbable sutures include:

  • The use of slowly absorbable monofilament sutures to minimize the risk of incisional hernia and wound complications
  • The importance of keeping the wound area clean and dry after the procedure
  • The need for patient education on wound care and monitoring for potential complications
  • The generally quick recovery and good scar healing outcomes associated with this procedure.

From the Research

Dermatofibroma Removal Using Fully Absorbable Sutures

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that specifically addresses the removal of a dermatofibroma using fully absorbable sutures by a doctor.
  • However, studies 2, 3, 4 discuss the use of absorbable sutures and staples for skin closure after surgery, which may be relevant to the removal of a dermatofibroma.
  • The study 2 describes a single suture technique for skin closure after superficial and subcutaneous surgery, which includes the use of absorbable stitches.
  • The study 3 compares the use of absorbable dermal staples with traditional sutures for incisional closure and finds that the staples are faster and more cost-effective.
  • The study 4 investigates the use of a 7-0 absorbable suture dressing for facial wound closure in children and finds that it is effective with a low complication rate.
  • The study 5 discusses the use of absorbable suspension sutures for facial rejuvenation, but it is not directly relevant to the removal of a dermatofibroma.

Suture Removal and Absorbable Sutures

  • The study 6 discusses the removal of non-absorbable sutures, but it does not provide information on the use of fully absorbable sutures for dermatofibroma removal.
  • The studies 2, 3, 4 suggest that absorbable sutures and staples can be used for skin closure after surgery, but they do not specifically address the removal of a dermatofibroma.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Facial wound closure in children using a 7-0 absorbable suture dressing.

The Journal of craniofacial surgery, 2015

Research

How to remove non-absorbable sutures.

Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987), 2024

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.