Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

What is a critical aspect of the Halsted Technique in suturing?

1. Use of absorbable sutures only

2. Utilization of interrupted silk sutures

3. Emphasizing continuous suturing techniques

4. Incorporation of drainage systems

The correct answer is: Utilization of interrupted silk sutures

The Halsted Technique, established by Dr. William Halsted, emphasizes meticulous surgical techniques, particularly in the practice of suturing. A crucial aspect of this technique is the use of interrupted silk sutures. This method allows for individual sutures to be placed separately, which provides several advantages: it minimizes tension on the wound edges, allows for the adjustments of individual sutures as needed, and can help ensure greater security if a suture fails since the others will still hold the wound together. Interrupted sutures are particularly effective in areas where wound tension is variable or where a precise approximation of tissue is necessary. While absorbable sutures can be beneficial in certain situations, the Halsted Technique specifically highlights the use of silk, a non-absorbable suture material that offers excellent tensile strength and knot security for the duration required in many surgical repairs. Continuous suturing techniques can be less effective for specific types of wounds, especially in those requiring a careful approach to tissue handling and support. Similarly, drainage systems, while important in certain surgical procedures, are not a fundamental aspect of the Halsted Technique when it specifically comes to suturing technique. Thus, the emphasis on interrupted silk sutures accurately reflects the principles that underlie the Halsted Technique in surgical