Cardiac Device Implant Skin Closure with a Novel Adjustable, Coaptive Tape‐Based Device

Background The purpose of this study was to compare a unique zip‐type adjustable coaptive tape‐based skin closure device to traditional subcuticular sutures in three domains: time, cosmesis, and wound closure‐related outcomes in cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) procedures. Methods A total of 40 patients were enrolled in a prospective randomized controlled trial to assess time to wound closure, as well as cosmesis and wound closure‐related outcomes. Results The adjustable coaptive tape‐based skin closure device had shorter overall closure time (78 ± 6.6 seconds vs 216 ± 21.5 seconds; P < 0.001) and mean closure time per centimeter (18.0 ± 2.0 s/cm vs 50.1 ± 6.7 s/cm; P < 0.001) versus sutures, with less intersurgeon and interpatient variability with the use of adjustable coaptive device versus sutures (P < 0.001). There was no difference between groups in postoperative pain or scar cosmesis during the follow‐up period. Neither group had any closure‐related adverse events. Conclusions The adjustable coaptive tape‐based skin closure device demonstrated shorter closure times with less variability when compared to sutures. It is a safe and acceptable alternative to sutures for skin closure following CIED implantation.