A suture fixation system that is configured to secure a suture includes a pad and a suture fixation device configured to clamp and retain at least one end of a suture. The pad includes a suture surface opposite a tissue surface and defines an opening formed through the suture and tissue surfaces that is sized to provide a margin around a tissue lesion to be sutured. The suture is employed to stitch the tissue lesion closed, the suture having at least one free end that is held in place by the suture fixation device, and the pad configured to elevate a portion of the suture away from the tissue.
