Colors
What color is Vicryl?
Purple
Which is thinner: 4-0 suture or 2-0 suture?
4-0
What is a blunt-point needle used for?
Delicate tissue
What is the primary difference between monofilament and multifilament sutures?
Monofilament suture is are made of a single strand; Multifilament is made of several strands twisted or braided together
What is the main difference between natural and synthetic sutures?
Natural sutures are made from biological materials, while synthetic sutures are made from man-made materials
What color suture is green?
Nurolon
In plastics: What suture size is commonly used for facial skin closures?
5-0, 6-0
What is the difference between a cutting needle and a taper needle?
While a cutting needle has sharp edges to cut through, a taper needle has a smooth point that pierces soft tissue without puncturing it.
What are the advantages of using monofilament sutures in surgery?
Lower risk of infection due to less surface area, less tissue drag, better resistance to abrasion and breakage
How does the elasticity of synthetic sutures compare to the rigidity of natural sutures?
Synthetic fibers are more elastic, while natural sutures are more rigid
What suture is in a black box?
Stratafix
How does tensile strength relate to suture size?
Amount of force a suture can withstand before it breaks
What type of needle is typically used for skin suturing?
Cutting needle
Why would you choose a multifilament suture for a high-tension wound closure despite its higher risk of infection?
Provides better knot security and has a greater tension strength, ensuring the wound stays closed
Why might synthetic sutures be preferred in patients with a higher risk of infection?
They are typically more resistant to bacterial colonization and have a smoother surface