Mastering the Basics
Suturing isn't difficult; it's skill, and like any other skill, it demands time, patience and practice.The first step is to understand the basics of suturing. Then, move on to the technique.
For every 10 minutes of learning a technique we would suggest practising for 20-30 minutes after.
"It's better to be right slowly, than wrong quickly."
1. The Suture Instruments
5-6 mins
It's time to take it back to basics...
First, let's get used to the surgical instruments used
2. Removing a Suture Blade
3-4 mins
This is often trickier than you'd think, at least initially. It's a movement you get used to the more you do it. When first using any suture blade holder you'll find it can be stiff fitting initially - primarily due to the tight fit. Keep practising and it will become smoother and smoother
3. The Basic Square Knot
5-6 mins
Focus on the technique, take your time and then marvel at your job well done! Like always, it takes practice but is well rewarded with a secure, well-fitting knot
PRO TIP Make sure your base knot is a double (locking) knot to add strength
4. Just Drawing Lines
13-14 mins
This is a tip I first got when we started suturing in med school. On a suture pad, you aim to go in with the needle, follow the needle's curve and come out where you (and the needle) intended. To make this clearer, draw equal, equidistant dots to show where your entry and exit points should be so you can practice aiming for them.
PRO TIP I draw lines to connect the dots - make sure this line is therefore parallel to the wound edge
5. To Suture Separately, or not to Suture Separately
2-3 mins
It's a simple question, with a simple answer. Nonetheless, we get asked all the time, so we've made a short demo to answer this question - the answer to which, of course, is that it depends!