basic surgical techniques - oxfordmedicine.com€¦ · basic surgical techniques the reef knot made...

BASIC SURGICAL TECHNIQUES

THE REEF KNOTMade up of a forehand/index finger throw and a backhand/middle finger throw. Once you tighten this knot, it is virtually irreversible. You should be able to do this with your dominant and

non-dominant hands.

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THE SLIP KNOTUseful when approximating tissues together. This allows

you to bring the tissues together before applying tension to

secure the knot. A reef knot then secures this in place.

SUTURINGThe accurate placing of stitches in tissue is imperative for healing.

The most common stitch is the simple interrupted stitch. Others suture types are, horizontal and vertical mattress stitches, Figure-

of-8, Z stitch and box stitches, purse strings, continuous suture techniques, continuous subcuticular suturing and glue.

THE SURGEON’S KNOTFormed of a double forehand throw, followed by a backhand throw, with a reef knot formed on top. This increases friction, making it suitable for tissues

under tension.

SUTURE MATERIAL TYPESAbsorbable monofilamentNon-absorbable monofilamentAbsorbable braidedNon-absorbable braided

NEEDLE TYPESCutting: reverse or standard

Round bodiedDolphin nosed blunt tip1/2–3/8 circumference

Round bodiedCutting/reverse cutting

Blunt tip

The need for practice with knotting techniques and suturing in crucial.

It is important to be familiar with the instruments and sutures in the

hospital where working as these can vary markedly.