Gun Digest
 

Why You Need ZipStitch In Your Med Kit

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A revolutionary new field suture system, ZipStitch replaces needle and thread with zip-tie technology.

How ZipStitch works:

Gun owners generally pride themselves for their preparedness. Chances are, we’ll never have to use a firearm to defend our lives (thankfully). Yet, if the time comes, we know we’re covered. It’s just like using a seatbelt in a car. But there’s one facet even the most vigilant tend to neglect—emergency medical care.

A simple and effective system, ZipStitch stitches up a wound in the field without needle and thread.
A simple and effective system, ZipStitch stitches up a wound in the field without needle and thread.

It’s a strange disconnect, but it’s one with dire consequences. Neglecting emergency medical equipment can lead to loss of life. To this end, I long ago added a tourniquet to my everyday carry kit. Along with this, I stash them in strategic locations—vehicles, hunting pack, boat, wife’s purse, etc. God willing, I’ll never have to break one out, but they’re there if I need one.

The same should hold true for lesser lacerations, because toughing them out isn’t a smart move. While not immediately pressing, such wounds can have long-term consequences—scarring, infection, etc. This is why I’ve found it wise to keep ZipStitch within reach at home and out and about. For minor to moderate lacerations, the system outdoes everything else on the market, in my opinion.

ZipStitch System

Even if you’re not familiar with the ZipStitch laceration kit, you’ve most likely seen it in one form or another. Around for some time, medical professionals have used it to close wounds as major as surgical incisions. You might have even had a stitch-worthy gash patched up with the cutting-edge sutures.

Conveniently sized, the suture system will fit into any first aid kit.

If you haven’t caught wind of them, this is how they’re laid out: ZipStitch consists of two strips of hydrocolloid adhesive, embedded with a micro-adjustable closure system. That system is where things get pretty cool and clever, given they’re four medical-grade zip ties. Yup, you heard right—zip ties—about the handiest thing next to duct tape and baling wire. Except, instead of MacGyvering your bumper back on, you use them to patch up your wound.

It’s pretty profound how effectively the tie system works, closing you up as tight as if you were stitched with a needle and surgical thread … except at a fraction of the time, trouble, cost and know how. Honestly, ZipStitch is band-aid easy to apply. Simple and effective, that’s a powerful tool.

ZipStitch Advantage

I can hear you now: “So, it’s pretty much a glorified butterfly suture, right?” While the age-old wound treatment still has its place, it doesn’t hold a candle to ZipStitch. In fact, it comes off as little more than tape next to the medical device.

For me, among ZipStitch’s most impressive attributes is its longevity after being applied. On clean skin, the adhesive lasts up to seven days, keeping the wound closed and impervious to outside contaminants. I’ve even gotten them soaking wet fording streams without so much as a corner curling up. Impressive, given it not only saves your skin, but your adventure. When the elk are moving, the last thing you want is to break camp for stitches.

ZipStitch also doesn’t impede your movement, but rather it flexes with your body. Yes, the zipper locks protrude enough that working a sock over one is a bit of a task. But once you’re geared up, the suture is a second thought … if that.

Though, when it comes to wound treatment, both of those aspects play a distant second fiddle. ZipStitch’s greatest benefit is how it closes a wound, which is like a battleship bulkhead. It’s a custom closure, similar to traditional stitches, with just enough tension and pressure in just the right places. Once again, a cheer for the zip tie—that’s the secret. Moreover, when applied correctly, it doesn’t impede blood flow around the injury, ensuring it heals properly.

Compared to the traditional stitches, ZipStitch is dramatically easier. And by the company’s account, stronger—eight times, from their numbers. I’ll have to take their word for it; I personally don’t plan on putting it to the test. But I’ll vouch, ZipStitch is dang sturdy and more than rugged enough for backwoods medicine.

How To Use ZipStitch

No medical training is required, but you have to have a few fundamentals in mind when using ZipStitch.

The ZipStitch Kit comes with everything you need to tend your wound, including: ZipStitch, alcohol wipe, gauze and bandage.

As in any trauma case, the first step is evaluation. While ZipStitch is useful on common wounds, it’s inappropriate for major lacerations or ones that run a major risk of infection. An animal bite or gunshot wound are good examples. These and similar wounds require immediate medical attention.

If a wound doesn’t fall into these categories, using ZipStitch is a simple four-step process:

  1. Clean and dry the wound. Making certain the wound is completely dry is imperative for the adhesive to stick properly.
  2. Remove ZipStitch from its liner, center on the wound, press firmly on and remove its paper frame.
  3. Once in place, adjust the zip tie tension straps, making certain you close the wound without over tightening.
  4. Trim each tie as short as possible to the lock housing.

The ZipStitch laceration kit comes with everything you need to treat a wound. This includes: one 1.5-inch ZipStitch, one alcohol wipe, one gauze and one bandage. The bandage is a nice extra, allowing a little more protection in the early stages of the healing process.

Parting Shot

ZipStitch retails for $29.99 per kit, which might sound spendy. But when you think about it, it’s a great value and an exceptional means of keeping you trudging forward.

The best part of ZipStitch, aside from saving your skin, it saves your adventure.

In addition to saving you from ER and insurance fees, it also keeps you in the field in most cases. Most useful of all, it allows you to treat a stitch-grade wound like any other bump or bruise. A big leap from even a few decades ago.

Given this, it makes sense to have ZipStitch on hand. Just like a self-defense gun or a tourniquet, these do-all sutures have the potential to save your skin.

For more information on ZipStitch, please visit www.zipstitch.us.

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