Suture selection criteria and alternative methods for wound closure in companion animal surgery


Published: Dec 18, 2017
Keywords:
staplers surgical mesh suture selection tissue adhesives
E. TZIMTZIMIS (Ε. ΤΖΙΜΤΖΙΜΗΣ)
L. PAPAZOGLOU (Λ. ΠΑΠΑΖΟΓΛΟΥ)
Abstract

Selection of appropriate suture material is important for successful healing; it is based principally on the properties
of suture, the type of the tissue to be sutured and the condition of the wound. The mechanical and biological properties
of a suture and the suture’s size should correlate well to type and properties of the tissue to be sutured. Strategy of suture
selection for specific tissues is discussed. Presence of sutures in a wound can increase the rate of infection of the wound. The
severity of the infection is related to the suture’s properties when the wound is clean. Closure of infected wounds should be
avoided. Stapling is an alternative method for wound closure and offers a significant reduction in the operative time. Various
types of staplers are available, depending on type of the tissue and the surgical procedure. Skin staples are widely used
in the skin and other tissues. The use of vascular clips is an alternative way to ligate blood vessels. Tissue adhesives are
materials that can also be used in closure of specific types of wounds. Surgical mesh is useful for closure of large defects.

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