Suture Materials, Needles, and Methods of Skin Closure: What Every Hand Surgeon Should Know

Area of Science:

• Surgical Materials Science
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Sutures are the most implanted materials in hand surgery.
• Formal education on suture materials and needles is lacking in surgical training.
• Suture knowledge is often acquired through informal mentorship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of suture materials and needles for hand surgeons.
• To discuss the history, properties, and applications of surgical sutures.
• To explore alternative skin closure methods and future advancements in musculoskeletal suturing.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical evolution of suture materials and needles.
• Analysis of material and mechanical properties of sutures.
• Examination of hand surgery-specific applications and alternative closure techniques.
• Cost analysis and future trends in musculoskeletal suturing.

Main Results:

• Sutures have a rich history and diverse material properties.
• Various suture types and needles are suited for specific hand surgery procedures.
• Alternative closure methods like staples, glue, and strips offer different benefits.
• Advances in musculoskeletal suturing are paving the way for future innovations.

Conclusions:

• A fundamental understanding of suture materials and needles is crucial for hand surgeons.
• Informed selection of suture tools leads to better surgical outcomes.
• Continuous learning about evolving suturing techniques is essential for practice.