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

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Enhance your knowledge in General Surgery with our Sutures and Wound Repair test. Tackle multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations to ensure readiness for your exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the purpose of bumpers or guards on tension sutures?

  1. To help with wound healing

  2. To allow for easier suture removal

  3. To prevent heavy suture from cutting into skin

  4. To provide added strength to the suture

The correct answer is: To prevent heavy suture from cutting into skin

The purpose of bumpers or guards on tension sutures is to prevent heavy suture material from cutting into the skin. These bumpers distribute the tension exerted by the suture over a larger area of tissue, thereby minimizing the risk of tissue damage and pressure necrosis. This is especially important in areas where the skin is thin or delicate, as excessive pressure can lead to complications such as ischemia or further tissue injury. By providing a protective barrier, bumpers help maintain the integrity of the skin and support the overall healing process. While the other options touch on aspects of wound care and suture usage, they do not directly address the primary function of bumpers in relation to tension sutures. For instance, while bumpers can indirectly support wound healing by reducing pressure and preventing tissue damage, their main role focuses on the mechanical action of protecting the skin from the suture itself. Similarly, while they do not specifically aid in suture removal or provide added strength to the suture, their design enhances the overall effectiveness and safety of suture placement in tension scenarios.