Continuous sutures

(Continuous sutures have the advantage of evenly distributing

the wound tension. However, if the suture or a knot breaks
wound dehiscence can easily occur. In this respect, interrupted
sutures give a better security.
The continuous intracutaneous is ideal for creating
inconspicuous wound such as that in direct brow lift
operation.)

Continuous over and over sutures Continuous interlocking Continuous intracutaneous

Interrupted sutures.

Uses

Compared with running sutures, interrupted sutures are easy

to place, have greater tensile strength, and have less potential
for causing wound edema and impaired cutaneous circulation.
Interrupted sutures also allow the surgeon to make
adjustments as needed to properly align wound edges as the
wound is sutured.

Disadvantages of interrupted sutures include the length of

time required for their placement and the greater risk of
crosshatched marks (ie, train tracks) across the suture line.
The risk of crosshatching can be minimized by removing
sutures early to prevent the development of suture tracks.
Smead-Jones/Far-and-Near

double loop technique alternating near and far stitches.

Commonly used for approximating fascial edges.

Purse String

A continuous stitch paralleling the edges of a circular wound.

The wound edges are inverted when tied. Commonly used to
close circular wounds, such as a hernia or an appendiceal
stump.

Mattress Suture
A double stitch that is made parallel (horizontal mattress) or
perpendicular (vertical mattress) to the wound edge. Chief
advantage of this technique is strength of closure; each stitch
penetrates each side of the wound twice, and is inserted deep
into the tissue.