Suturing Skills

As medical students we are in the business of learning. Some things are well learned on the job, others are better honed on our own and then practiced under close supervision before getting too far ahead of our skill level. 

Tying It All Together

The baby was out, the placenta delivered, and now we had to repair the laceration. When my attending handed me the loaded needle driver, I was a little hesitant as I have not yet sutured living flesh. Without a problem, I was able to approximate the wound from one side of the tear the other. Having only practiced a couple suture ties on pigs feet, I was in unfamiliar territory and I had to let my preceptor know. Sadly he finished the job I started, despite my desire to learn.

This meant I would certainly be learning more on suturing techniques that night so I could be a little more prepared should another opportunity arise. I was happily surprised at the few things I did find and would like to share them here for those who may be a beginner at the art of suturing.

• Suture Basics - Website compiled by Boston University School of Medicine
• Suture Handling Videos - Website produced by University of Pennsylvania
• Knot Tying Kit - FREE Practice kit from Ethicon (Enter your information and they will ship it to you at no cost)
• Surgical Knots and Suturing Techniques - Book written by F.D. Giddings

With another surgery coming up tomorrow, we'll see if I get a chance to wield the needle and string. If it doesn't happen, my dental floss and fruit peels will have to hold me over until my surgical rotations come around. 

Question of the Week

A 24-year-old man is involved in a motorcycle accident and loses several liters of blood. In addition to resuscitation with normal saline, physicians decide to transfuse blood products. If the patient has blood type B, Rh-negative, which of the following blood products may be most safely administered?

A. Type A, Rh-negative red blood cells
B. Type AB, Rh-negative red blood cells
C. Type B, Rh-positive whole blood
D. Type O, Rh-negative red blood cells
E. Type O, Rh-negative whole blood

Answer & Explanation