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SYLKE Adhesive Wound Closure Applications

Evidence-based clinical uses for surgical incisions, lacerations, trauma, and dermatologic procedures

Clinical Versatility

Real-World SYLKE Applications

SYLKE Adhesive Wound Closure is an FDA Class I sterile medical device designed for primary closure and coverage of clean, simple lacerations, cuts, puncture wounds, and post-surgical incisions. Below are the seven core clinical applications supported by the product's indications and clinical evidence.

1. Post-Surgical Incision Care

FDA Indication

Indication: SYLKE is designed to close and cover post-surgical skin incisions, including those with subcutaneous or dermal sutures, assisting in bringing together skin edges and protecting the wound during initial healing.

Clinical Applications:

  • Abdominoplasty and body contouring procedures
  • Breast surgery (augmentation, reduction, reconstruction)
  • Upper extremity lift and contouring (brachioplasty)
  • General surgery incisions (fascial closure with dermal sutures)
  • Orthopedic surgical sites (joint replacement, arthroscopy)

Key Advantages:

  • Can be applied over sutures or used alone for skin edge closure
  • Water-resistant wear for up to 14 days while tolerating normal bathing
  • Zero cyanoacrylates — unlike Dermabond Prineo™
  • No drying time required; adhesive is instantly active
  • Can be trimmed to any wound length with clean scissors
SYLKE adhesive wound closure applied to surgical incision

Why SYLKE Works for Post-Surgical Care

SYLKE's woven silk fibroin backing provides structural support while the pressure-sensitive adhesive conforms to the contours of healing tissue. The strip remains flexible during the 14-day healing window, accommodating tissue swelling and movement without compromising adhesion or causing tissue stripping on removal.

Clinical evidence shows SYLKE outperforms both Steri-Strips and cyanoacrylate adhesives in 14-day holding power and minimal adverse reactions, making it ideal for post-operative incision protection.

2. Lacerations and Puncture Wound Closure

FDA Indication

Indication: SYLKE is indicated for topical closure of thoroughly cleansed simple lacerations, cuts, and puncture wounds, assisting in bringing together skin edges during the initial healing phase.

Clinical Applications:

  • Traumatic lacerations in emergency departments
  • Puncture wounds after foreign body removal
  • Cuts from sharp objects (knives, glass, metal)
  • Facial lacerations and other cosmetically sensitive areas
  • At-home application by patients after wound cleansing

Application Advantage: SYLKE can be applied in clinical or home settings without special equipment. The device is single-use, sterile, and requires only thorough wound cleansing and drying before application — making it practical for urgent care, emergency, and home care scenarios.

Contraindications to Monitor:

  • Do not use on actively bleeding wounds
  • Do not use on dirty or contaminated wounds (risk of infection)
  • Do not use on wounds with heavy exudate or moisture
  • Do not use on infected wounds (signs: pus, warmth, pain, fever, swelling)
SYLKE applied to minor laceration with clean wound edges

Simple, Accessible Laceration Care

SYLKE transforms laceration management by eliminating the need for sutures in appropriate wounds. A simple 7-step process — cleanse, dry, apply, remove liner, trim, press, secure — delivers immediate, reliable closure.

The adhesive strength is sufficient for simple wounds, and the water-resistant design allows patients to resume normal activities, including bathing, during the 14-day wear period. Early removal (before 14 days) may cause skin irritation or stripping, so proper patient education is essential.

3. Post-Mohs Micrographic Surgery Closure

FDA Indication

Indication: SYLKE is suitable for post-Mohs surgical wound closure on the face and other cosmetically sensitive areas, providing adjunctive closure over sutures or as standalone approximation for minor defects.

Clinical Context:

  • Primary closure of small facial defects (excision sites, tissue biopsy)
  • Adjunctive strip support over dermal or subcuticular sutures
  • Closure of reconstruction incisions on the eyelid, nose, lip, and ear
  • Post-operative dressing for facial defects in sun-exposed areas

Key Advantages in Dermatologic Surgery:

  • Minimizes visible scar by supporting precise tissue approximation
  • Water-resistant protection allows gentle facial hygiene during healing
  • Hypoallergenic silk fibroin reduces irritant and allergic contact dermatitis risks
  • Can be trimmed to fit facial anatomy precisely
  • Non-traumatic removal compared to suture extraction
SYLKE strip applied with precision to facial wound

Optimal Cosmetic Outcomes for Facial Surgery

Mohs micrographic surgery requires meticulous tissue approximation and protection during the critical first 14 days of healing. SYLKE supports this goal without the irritation and contact dermatitis risk associated with cyanoacrylates.

A peer-reviewed study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery comparing SYLKE to 3M™ Steri-Strips™ demonstrated superior 14-day holding power and significantly lower erythema rates (0% vs 20.8%), making SYLKE the evidence-backed choice for high-visibility facial surgery sites.

4. Orthopedic Surgery Incision Care

FDA Indication

Indication: SYLKE is designed for post-operative incision care following major orthopedic procedures, providing protection and closure support for surgical sites where wound integrity and infection prevention are critical.

Common Orthopedic Applications:

  • Total knee replacement (TKR) and revision incisions
  • Total hip replacement (THR) and revision incisions
  • Shoulder arthroscopy and open repairs
  • Spine surgery incisions (discectomy, fusion, laminectomy)
  • Fracture fixation and trauma surgery sites

Why Orthopedic Surgeons Choose SYLKE:

  • Water-resistant coverage tolerates post-operative swelling and movement
  • 14-day wear window aligns with standard orthopedic incision maturation timelines
  • Flexible design accommodates joint motion without adhesive failure
  • American Academy of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) award recognition demonstrates clinical acceptance
  • Reduces infection risk by maintaining continuous wound coverage
SYLKE sterile packaging ready for orthopedic application

Trusted by Orthopedic Surgery Teams

Orthopedic surgery creates high-demand incision environments: movement, swelling, moisture from perspiration, and extended healing timelines. SYLKE's pressure-sensitive adhesive and water-resistant design withstand these challenges while maintaining structural support.

Clinicians report that SYLKE can remain in place during standard post-operative protocols including physical therapy, normal bathing, and dynamic range-of-motion exercises — making it a practical choice for active orthopedic patients.

5. Pediatric Surgical and Trauma Wound Closure

FDA Indication

Indication: SYLKE is ideal for pediatric laceration repair and surgical closure, offering a non-traumatic, hypoallergenic alternative to traditional sutures or cyanoacrylate adhesives.

Pediatric Clinical Applications:

  • Emergency department laceration repair in children
  • Surgical closure in pediatric general surgery
  • Pediatric plastic and reconstructive surgery
  • Post-operative incision care (tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, hernia repair)
  • Traumatic wound closure without suture removal anxiety

Why SYLKE is Preferred for Pediatric Patients:

  • No cyanoacrylates — eliminates chemical burn and contact dermatitis risk
  • Hypoallergenic silk fibroin — minimal inflammatory response in young, sensitive skin
  • Non-traumatic removal — no suture extraction, reducing anxiety and tissue trauma
  • Comfortable wear — flexible, non-irritating design tolerated by active children
  • Cosmetically superior — pediatric skin has greater propensity for hypertrophic scarring; SYLKE's supportive closure reduces this risk
Close-up of SYLKE adhesive strip showing woven silk structure

Safe, Comfortable Pediatric Wound Care

Pediatric wound closure demands a gentler approach. SYLKE eliminates multiple pain points: no chemical irritation from cyanoacrylates, no suture removal discomfort, and no anxiety-inducing dressing changes.

Parents appreciate the simplicity: a one-time application that stays in place for up to 14 days, tolerates normal play and bathing, and peels off gently without causing additional trauma or distress.

6. Adjunctive Closure with Sutures

FDA Indication

Indication: SYLKE can be used alone or with sutures, supporting and assisting in bringing together skin edges during initial healing.

Clinical Use: Many surgeons layer SYLKE over dermal or subcuticular sutures to provide additional skin edge approximation, reduce tension on the suture line, and protect the incision from external contamination. This combination approach is particularly valuable in:

  • Tension-prone closures (large excisions, body contouring)
  • Cosmetically sensitive areas requiring optimized scar appearance
  • High-mobility sites (axilla, groin, over joints)
  • Immunocompromised patients where infection risk is elevated
  • Contamination-prone environments (outdoor trauma, agricultural injuries)

Practical Advantages of Adjunctive Use:

  • Extends active wound protection beyond initial suture removal
  • Distributes tension across broader surface, reducing stress concentration at individual suture points
  • Provides barrier against water, bacteria, and external trauma during critical healing phases
  • Eliminates need for separate incision dressings, reducing cost and complexity

7. Home and Consumer Wound Care

FDA Indication

Indication: SYLKE can be applied by consumers in home settings for thoroughly cleansed simple lacerations, cuts, puncture wounds, and post-operative incisions, making it accessible for minor wounds without professional healthcare involvement.

Consumer Applications:

  • Minor cuts and nicks from kitchen or household injuries
  • Minor surgical incision protection post-procedure (when cleared by surgeon)
  • Puncture wounds after first aid and initial medical evaluation
  • Athlete or outdoor enthusiast wound closure in wilderness or remote settings
  • Extended wound care support after urgent care or ED discharge

Consumer Education Requirements: For safe home use, patients must understand:

  • Wound must be thoroughly cleansed and completely dry before application
  • Only use on simple, uninfected wounds (no pus, warmth, fever, swelling)
  • Do not use on high-tension wounds that require sutures (ask a healthcare provider first)
  • Do not submerge in water for prolonged periods; normal bathing is acceptable
  • Do not remove before 14 days unless instructed by a healthcare provider
  • If infection signs develop (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, fever), remove and seek medical care
SYLKE package opened showing sterile strip ready for application

Empowering Patient Self-Care

SYLKE democratizes wound care. A simple minor laceration no longer requires an ER visit or urgent care appointment. With clear instructions and an understanding of when professional help is needed, patients can confidently close and protect clean, simple wounds at home.

The sterile, single-use packaging and straightforward 7-step application process make SYLKE an ideal addition to first-aid kits, travel supplies, and athletic trainer bags.

Application Process

7-Step Application Instructions

From IFU (Instructions for Use) — Follow these steps for optimal adhesion and wear

  1. Thoroughly cleanse and dry the wound. Wash with soap and water, pat completely dry with a clean cloth. Do not apply if wound is wet, has exudate, or is covered with blood, oils, or dense hair.
  2. Open the sterile pouch and remove the SYLKE strip. Handle by edges to avoid touching the adhesive side.
  3. Grasp the strip and remove the pre-slit 1.5" tab to expose adhesive. The tab is marked on the packaging and peels away easily.
  4. Position the adhesive side at least 1 cm (about 0.4") over the end of the wound and press gently. Start at one end to ensure good contact.
  5. Remove the liner while continuously pressing the strip over the entire wound length. Extend at least 1 cm past the other end of the wound for full coverage.
  6. Trim excess with clean scissors. If the strip is longer than needed, carefully cut away excess material to fit the wound contour.
  7. Press gently along the entire strip to secure adhesion. Apply firm, even pressure along the full length to ensure maximum contact and holding power.

Application Tips

  • Avoid moisture: Do not apply SYLKE to wet wounds or wounds with heavy drainage. Moisture prevents adhesion.
  • Avoid hair: If the wound area has dense hair, trim or remove hair before application for better adhesion.
  • No drying time: SYLKE's pressure-sensitive adhesive is instantly active — no need to wait for skin-applied agents to dry.
  • Trim to size: SYLKE comes in three sizes. If needed, trim carefully with clean scissors to fit the exact wound shape.
  • Firm pressure: Press hard and hold for at least 10-15 seconds along the entire strip length to maximize initial adhesion.
End of Wear

Safe Removal Instructions

SYLKE is designed to remain in place for up to 14 days. Early removal may cause skin irritation or stripping.

  1. Wait until the 14-day wear window has completed. SYLKE is designed to remain in place for up to 14 days under normal conditions.
  2. Gently lift the edge of the strip. Start at a corner or end and peel slowly along the direction of the wound line.
  3. Peel slowly along the wound line. Avoid pulling perpendicular to the skin; instead, peel at a shallow angle along the wound.
  4. If adhesion is strong, soak in warm water. Warm (not hot) water can soften the adhesive, making gentle removal easier without skin stripping.
  5. Inspect the wound. Once removed, check that the incision is well-healed. Skin may appear slightly pink, which is normal. If signs of infection are present (pus, warmth, increased swelling, odor), contact a healthcare provider.

Post-Removal Wound Care

After removal, the wound should be well-closed and in the final stages of healing. Continue gentle hygiene and sun protection (especially for facial wounds). Light scar massage and silicone-based scar treatments may be considered to optimize long-term scar appearance.

If you experience unexpected pain, redness, swelling, or discharge during or after removal, contact a healthcare provider for evaluation.

Peer-Reviewed Evidence

Clinical Comparison Studies

SYLKE's safety and efficacy are supported by peer-reviewed research comparing it directly to competing wound closure products.

SYLKE vs. Dermabond™ Prineo™ (25-Patient RCT)

Key Findings: In a randomized controlled trial of 25 patients, SYLKE showed superior biocompatibility compared to the cyanoacrylate-based Dermabond Prineo.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis: SYLKE 0% vs. Dermabond 52%
  • Discomfort/irritation: SYLKE 4% vs. Dermabond 64%

Conclusion: SYLKE's hypoallergenic silk fibroin formulation demonstrates significantly lower rates of contact dermatitis and discomfort compared to cyanoacrylate adhesives, making it the safer choice for sensitive skin and extended wear.

SYLKE vs. 3M™ Steri-Strips™ (50-Patient RCT, PRS Publication)

Key Findings: In a 50-patient randomized controlled trial published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, SYLKE demonstrated superior adhesive performance and biocompatibility compared to traditional Steri-Strips.

  • Erythema at 14 days: SYLKE 0% vs. Steri-Strips 20.8%
  • 14-day holding power: SYLKE maintained superior adhesion (Steri-Strips degrade after 7-10 days)
  • Patient comfort: SYLKE showed lower irritation rates

Conclusion: SYLKE's water-resistant construction and superior adhesive longevity make it more effective than Steri-Strips for the full 14-day healing window, particularly in high-moisture or high-mobility environments.

Incisional Wound Care Review

A comprehensive review of incisional wound closure techniques and materials supports the use of advanced adhesive-based closure systems for primary skin closure and post-operative incision protection. SYLKE's woven silk mesh backing and pressure-sensitive adhesive align with evidence-based best practices for wound closure.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis Study

A dedicated study examining allergic contact dermatitis risk from wound closure materials demonstrated that silk fibroin (the primary component of SYLKE) is hypoallergenic and does not elicit delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions common with synthetic adhesives or cyanoacrylate-based products.

Silk Bioprotein Wound Dressing Study

Research on silk fibroin as a wound dressing material demonstrates that its natural protein structure supports biocompatibility, reduces inflammatory responses, and promotes optimal tissue remodeling during the healing process. These properties explain SYLKE's effectiveness in minimizing scarring and adverse tissue reactions.

Product Selection

SYLKE Size Guide

SYLKE is available in three sizes. Select the size that best fits your wound length and location.

Size Dimensions Best Uses Typical Applications
Large 32 cm × 2.5 cm Extended incisions, body contouring, large lacerations Abdominoplasty, thigh/hip lift, extensive trauma
Medium 24 cm × 3.4 cm Standard surgical incisions, moderate lacerations General surgery, orthopedic, dermatologic procedures
Small 16 cm × 2.5 cm Facial closures, pediatric wounds, small lacerations Post-Mohs, small cuts, pediatric trauma, biopsy sites

Sizing Tips

SYLKE can be trimmed to any length with clean scissors, so it's better to choose a larger size if unsure. A 5-10 cm wound might use a 16 cm strip (trimmed), while a 15-20 cm incision would use the 24 cm or 32 cm size. Ensure at least 1 cm of adhesive extends beyond the wound edge on both sides for optimal holding power.

Safety Information

Contraindications and Warnings

SYLKE is not appropriate for all wound types. Review these contraindications and warnings before application.

Contraindications (Do Not Use)

  • Infected wounds (signs: pus, pain, warmth, redness, swelling, fever)
  • Dirty or contaminated wounds
  • Actively bleeding wounds
  • High-tension wounds without sutures or additional closure devices
  • Wounds where adhesion cannot be obtained (exudate, oils, moisture, dense hair)
  • Mucosal surfaces (lips, inside mouth)
  • Near eyes or over eyelids
  • Intimate areas
  • Below the skin surface

Key Warnings

  • Do not remove early — may cause skin stripping, pain, redness
  • Do not immerse in water for prolonged periods; normal bathing is acceptable
  • Do not use on moist, exuding, or dirty wounds
  • Ensure complete wound drying before application
  • Avoid application over dense hair or oily skin
  • If signs of infection develop, remove and seek medical care
  • Store below 30°C (86°F) in a clean, dry environment
Frequently Asked

Common Questions About SYLKE

Answers to help you understand SYLKE's indications, application, and care.

Is SYLKE made from spider silk?

No. SYLKE is made from silk fibroin derived from silkworms, not spiders. Silk fibroin is a natural protein harvested from silkworm cocoons and woven into mesh strips. It is biocompatible, hypoallergenic, and has been used in medical applications for decades.

What is SYLKE made of?

SYLKE consists of a sterile, woven silk fibroin mesh backing with a pressure-sensitive adhesive on one side. It contains no cyanoacrylates, no synthetic plastics, and no harsh chemicals. The entire product is designed for biocompatibility and minimal inflammatory response.

Can I swim or shower with SYLKE?

Yes. SYLKE is water-resistant and can tolerate normal bathing and showering. However, avoid prolonged immersion (e.g., extended swimming sessions or hot tubs). The 14-day wear window is designed to accommodate normal daily activities including bathing, but not submersion in water for extended periods.

What is the difference between SYLKE and Steri-Strips?

Steri-Strips are latex-free, acrylic adhesive strips with a rayon backing. They typically degrade after 7-10 days in moist environments. SYLKE has a woven silk fibroin backing with a superior pressure-sensitive adhesive that maintains 14-day holding power even in high-moisture conditions. Clinical evidence shows SYLKE outperforms Steri-Strips in 14-day adhesion and reduces erythema risk.

Is SYLKE a cyanoacrylate product (like Dermabond)?

No. SYLKE contains zero cyanoacrylates. It is a pressure-sensitive adhesive product, meaning the adhesive becomes active only when pressure is applied. Dermabond and Dermabond Prineo are cyanoacrylate-based adhesives that cure chemically. SYLKE's cyanoacrylate-free design significantly reduces allergic contact dermatitis risk (0% in trials vs. 52% for Dermabond Prineo).

How long does SYLKE stay in place?

SYLKE is designed to remain in place for up to 14 days under normal conditions. After 14 days, the adhesive naturally degrades and the strip becomes easier to remove. Removing SYLKE before 14 days may cause skin irritation or stripping.

Can SYLKE be used on infected wounds?

No. SYLKE is contraindicated for infected wounds. Signs of infection include pus, pain, warmth, redness, swelling, and fever. If your wound shows these signs, do not apply SYLKE. Instead, contact a healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

How do I know if a wound is "clean and simple"?

A clean, simple wound is one that does not involve deep structures (fascia, muscle, bone), has well-approximated edges, is free from dirt and debris, and shows no signs of infection. If you have any doubt, consult a healthcare provider. High-tension wounds or those with irregular edges may require professional evaluation and potentially sutures in addition to SYLKE.

Is SYLKE hypoallergenic?

Yes. SYLKE is hypoallergenic. Silk fibroin is a natural protein that does not elicit allergic contact dermatitis reactions. Clinical studies show 0% allergic contact dermatitis with SYLKE compared to 52% with cyanoacrylate products, making it ideal for sensitive skin and patients with contact dermatitis history.

Important Medical Disclaimer

SYLKE Adhesive Wound Closure is an FDA Class I sterile medical device indicated for topical closure and coverage of thoroughly cleansed simple lacerations, cuts, puncture wounds, and post-surgical skin incisions (including those with subcutaneous or dermal sutures). It assists in bringing together skin edges and protecting wounds during initial healing.

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. All applications described here are within SYLKE's FDA-cleared indications. Individual clinical decisions must be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, taking into account the patient's medical history, wound characteristics, and applicable clinical protocols.

For current FDA clearance status, complete product information, and detailed Instructions for Use, please consult the product labeling or contact Sunspot Medical Group directly.

If you have questions about whether SYLKE is appropriate for your specific wound, please contact a healthcare provider or our clinical support team.

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