Instruments in Your Kit
This instrument is used to grasp and drive the needle
a needle holder
This is the simplest and most common type of suture
simple interrupted suture
The standard, secure knot taught to beginners
a square knot
The primary goal of suturing is to achieve this between wound edges
tissue approximation
This is the most common complication of improper suturing
wound dehiscence
These are toothed or smooth and help in tissue handling
forceps
A suture technique known for faster closure but at risk if one knot fails
continuous (running) suture
This knotting technique is useful in confined spaces, often requiring only one hand
a one-handed square knot
Sutures should be placed at this approximate distance from the wound edge
3–5 mm
The type of suture material that loses strength in the presence of infection
catgut
This instrument is used specifically for cutting sutures
suture scissors
This mattress suture provides strong wound edge eversion by a far–far, near–near technique
vertical mattress suture
Alternating throws are essential in knot tying to prevent this
a slip knot or knot unravelling
Wound edges should be slightly _______ to prevent depressed scars
everted
The “rule of halves” refers to this technique in wound closure
bisecting the wound and suturing at the halfway point each time
The difference between absorbable and non-absorbable sutures lies in this property
the ability to be broken down by the body
This suture spreads tension across fragile skin but may compromise blood supply if too tight
a horizontal mattress suture
At least this many throws are recommended for a secure knot
3–4 throws
The type of wound closure used for contaminated wounds
delayed primary closure
The mattress suture is especially useful over this anatomical area with high tension
over joints
The standard curve of a surgical needle used in skin suturing
a 3/8 circle needle
The “subcuticular” technique is especially used for this cosmetic reason
minimizing scarring
This alternative knot may be used when tying under tension or in deep spaces
a surgeon’s knot
The suture-to-wound length ratio recommended for strength in closure
4:1
What is Halsted's suture
approximate, don’t strangulate