ABSTRACT
This chapter briefly reviews the merits of different types of sutures and suturing techniques in a variety of clinical environments. The use of absorbable and nonabsorbable monofilament or multifilament sutures and continuous or interrupted suturing techniques for repairs of various tissues in the human body as these relate to clinical outcomes are addressed. The use of nonabsorbable sutures in pediatric cardiovascular operations may be a major factor in the development of anastomotic strictures. There are numerous clinical studies, prospective and retrospective, on the optimal suture methods for closure of the abdominal fascia after laparotomy. Traditional teaching on gastrointestinal anastomoses has maintained that serosal apposition is preferred. Bronchial closure after pneumonectomy has been performed with a variety of sutures such as stainless steel wire, Dexon, Vicryl, or Prolene, and with stapling devices. The best suture material for tracheal reconstruction is debated. The small intestine heals very rapidly and maximal strength is reached in about 14 d.
