This study is evaluating whether Steri-Strips® provide additional benefits when used after cesarean section (C-section) surgery. Steri-Strips are adhesive strips that are commonly placed over a surgical incision to provide support while the wound heals. At our hospital, Steri-Strips are routinely used after C-sections in addition to standard wound closure techniques, although they are not considered part of the standard recommended closure method. Researchers want to determine whether adding Steri-Strips actually reduces wound complications such as infection, fluid collection under the skin, or reopening of the incision. Previous studies have shown mixed results, with some suggesting little difference in wound healing outcomes while others reported differences in scar appearance. Steri-Strips may also increase costs, add time to the surgery, and occasionally cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Participants in this study will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive standard cesarean wound closure with Steri-Strips, while the other group will receive standard wound closure without Steri-Strips. Researchers will compare wound healing, complications, patient outcomes, and costs between the two groups. The goal of this study is to determine whether Steri-Strips improve recovery after cesarean delivery and whether their routine use is beneficial and cost-effective. The findings may help guide future recommendations for cesarean wound care and improve outcomes for patients undergoing C-section delivery.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
610
Application of Steri-Strip adhesive skin closure strips following standard cesarean section wound closure according to a standardized protocol.
Standard skin closure performed following cesarean delivery according to institutional practice.
Riverside University Health System Medical Center
Moreno Valley, California, United States
RECRUITINGIncidence of Cesarean Section Wound Complications
Composite incidence of postoperative wound complications including surgical site infection, wound seroma, and wound separation/dehiscence following cesarean delivery.
Time frame: Within 30 days postpartum
Length of Hospital Stay
Duration of hospitalization measured from cesarean delivery until discharge.
Time frame: From cesarean delivery until hospital discharge (up to 7 days)
Readmission Related to Wound Complications
Hospital readmission attributable to wound infection, seroma, or wound separation/dehiscence following cesarean delivery.
Time frame: Within 30 days postpartum
Cost of Wound Management
Comparison of direct healthcare costs associated with wound closure materials and management of postoperative wound complications between study groups.
Time frame: From cesarean delivery through 30 days postpartum
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