Medication suture dates several centuries ago, but it has improved with time. Surgical knots have played an essential role in medication and are some of the practices taught since the 15th and 16th centuries. It was an art form during the early days, and the practice was trained under a secrecy pledge. Modern medicine education teaches the proper application of knots from a scientific view, and all surgeons are required to master it.
When the tying technique is applied correctly, it eases a complicated procedure and facilitates the healing of wounds while minimizing scar formation. Failure to use the correct process is likely to result in knot tying failure, and the results can be devastating. Some of the complications you may face include massive bleeding, mainly if the suture loop unties prematurely. Besides, wounds leaks cause vision loss and endophthalmitis. To ensure that a suture procedure is completed successfully, the following tools must be present. They are not the ones required, but they are extremely essential.
Suture Tools
Needles are some of the essential suture tools. They come with a spring eye where the suture is pressed in the needles have a tape point that spreads tissue instead of cutting it. This makes them perfect even when handling soft and delicate tissue because they cause minimal trauma.
Suturing surgical needles are available in various sizes, and you choose what to use. The needle's point portion extends from its tip to the cross-section and comes in one of the following types:
- Taper point, which is round
- Cutting needles that can be reverse, side or conventional
- Blunt points
- Beveled points, used to cut edges.
- Needle Holders
Needle holders are also referred to as needle drivers or needle forceps. Their tip is texture to enable a tight grip. They also come with a ratchet to allow locking. For a better grip, go for needle holders with tungsten carbide. They are easier to grip and tend to last longer than the stainless steel ones. Tungsten carbide inserts are easy to identify, and they come with gold handles.
For lengthy procedures, titanium holders are an excellent choice. They are light in weight and comfortable to use for hours. Remember that the needle holder you choose should be determined by the size of the needle you intend to use.
When to Replace Need Holders
- Signs of a bent tip
- Cracks on the joint or jaws
- Cracks on the tungsten carbide inserts
- Lose joint
- Poorly functioning ratchet mechanism
- Rust
- Skin Staples
Skin staples do not crush the tissue when inserted. They enable medical students and doctors to close wound fast and minimize further damage. They are essential when closing wounds and some are absorbable in the body. Staples that have to be removed take very little time, but the patient must be under anesthesia.
Suture medical tools help doctors close wounds using thread or any other medically allowed material. The process is also referred to as stitching but requires special tools to accomplish. Only qualified surgeons can do it, and the right steps must be followed along with the use of the right equipment.