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

Which type of suture is generally avoided due to high risk of infection?

1. Silk suture

2. Absorbable sutures

3. Non-absorbable sutures

4. Catgut sutures

The correct answer is: Silk suture

Silk sutures are often avoided in certain surgical contexts primarily because they are non-absorbable and are known to harbor bacteria on their surface. This characteristic increases the risk of infection when used in contaminated or high-risk areas. Silk can also promote a more pronounced inflammatory response compared to other suture materials, which can contribute to complications. The other choices represent different categories of sutures with varying applications and properties. Absorbable sutures, for instance, are designed to break down over time and are typically used in areas where the suture material can be absorbed by the body, which reduces the risk of infection because they don't need to be removed. Non-absorbable sutures are often made from synthetic materials and can be used in clean areas with minimal risk of infection. Catgut sutures, although natural, are absorbable and also present a lower infection risk due to their eventual resorption. Understanding the characteristics of each suture type helps guide the choice of materials based on the specific surgical context and risk factors involved.