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BASIC SURGICAL TECHNIQUES THE REEF KNOT Made up of a forehand/index finger throw and a backhand/middle finger throw. Once you tighten this knot, it is virtually irreversible. You should be able to do this with your dominant and non-dominant hands. OXFORD TEXTBOOK OF FUNDAMENTALS OF SURGERY If you would like to learn more, purchase your very own copy at www.oup.com/academic THE SLIP KNOT Useful when approximating tissues together. This allows you to bring the tissues together before applying tension to secure the knot. A reef knot then secures this in place. SUTURING The accurate placing of stitches in tissue is imperative for healing. The most common stitch is the simple interrupted stitch. Others suture types are, horizontal and vertical mattress stitches, Figure- of-8, Z stitch and box stitches, purse strings, continuous suture techniques, continuous subcuticular suturing and glue. THE SURGEON’S KNOT Formed of a double forehand throw, followed by a backhand throw, with a reef knot formed on top. This increases friction, making it suitable for tissues under tension. SUTURE MATERIAL TYPES Absorbable monofilament Non-absorbable monofilament Absorbable braided Non-absorbable braided NEEDLE TYPES Cutting: reverse or standard Round bodied Dolphin nosed blunt tip 1/2–3/8 circumference Round bodied Cutting/reverse cutting Blunt tip The need for practice with knotting techniques and suturing in crucial. It is important to be familiar with the instruments and sutures in the hospital where working as these can vary markedly.
