Comprised of metal, staples are usually necessary to close deep lacerations, which aren’t appropriate for ordinary stitches. Usually comprised of stainless steel or titanium, they can also be made from materials such as nickel, chromium, plastic or iron. They may also be curved, straight or circular and are generally used during procedures that must be performed quickly, or in areas of the body that are difficult to stitch. Staples may be used on the abdomen, legs, arms, scalp or back.
