Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Practice Test

What type of suture technique might be preferred for closing a deep wound?

1. Continuous suture

2. Subcuticular suture

3. Interlocking suture

4. Simple interrupted suture

The correct answer is: Continuous suture

Choosing the continuous suture technique for closing a deep wound is advantageous for several reasons. Continuous suturing allows for a uniform distribution of tension along the wound edges, which is essential in deep wounds where uneven tension can lead to complications such as wound dehiscence. By using a single strand of suture material that runs along the length of the wound, the technique provides enhanced stability and minimizes the number of knots, thereby reducing the overall bulk at the wound site. Additionally, continuous suturing can be faster to perform than placing individual interrupted sutures, which can be particularly beneficial in deep or extensive wounds where time is a critical factor. The uniformity of the tension can promote better healing as well, as it reduces the likelihood of localized swelling or ischemia that might result from uneven pressure. Though other techniques, such as subcuticular sutures, interlocking sutures, and simple interrupted sutures, offer their own benefits, they may not provide the same level of continuous tension distribution required for deep wounds. Subcuticular sutures, for example, are often used in more superficial layers and are ideal for cosmetic purposes, whereas interlocking sutures emphasize interlacing but can introduce additional complexity. Simple interrupted sutures are excellent for controlling tension,