The use of sutures in the mouth

The purpose of this communication is to establish a case for a more critical review of the indications for the use of sutures in oral surgery. Observations are made on the underlying principles of surgery and, where appropriate, modifications to suit some standard surgical techniques including apicectomy are suggested, which will reduce both the post-operative inconvenience for the patient and the indications for suturing. The case is supported by a retrospective review of the sutures used in a consecutive series of 149 oral surgery patients admitted to hospital for operation under general anaesthesia.