(4)
Spacing of sutures. Follow these guidelines in spacing sutures.
(a) The closer the suture is to the wound edge, the better the control
over the wound edge.
(b) The suture should enter and exit the skin about two millimeters
from the wound edge.
(c) The suture should have a depth of about two millimeters from the
surface of the skin.
(d) The distance between sutures should be between two millimeters
and six millimeters, depending on the tissue.
(e) Space the sutures an equal distance apart along the entire extent
of the laceration.
(f)
For better cosmetic effect, use many small stitches set close
together.
(5)
Technique of suture placement. Follow this procedure for suture
placement:
(a) Grasp the needle with the needle holder one-third to one-half way
down the needle from the point where the needle attaches.
Figure 2-5. Grasping the suture needle with the suture holder.
NOTE:
In this area, the needles are flattened, giving the needle holders a larger
surface to hold onto.
MD0574
2-15