Summary

Regarding suture degradation, we were unable to find any studies specific to children or antibiotic ointment. The studies in adults are very limited and explore suture tensile strength in the setting of petrolatum (petroleum jelly) exposure. There does not appear to be any significant degradation of absorbable suture after exposure to petrolatum.

Dr. Jones is assistant professor of pediatric emergency medicine at the University of Kentucky in Lexington.

Dr. Cantor is professor of emergency medicine and pediatrics, director of the pediatric emergency department, and medical director of the Central New York Regional Poison Control Center at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York.

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