Chapter 75 Primary Wound Closure

Question 1

Label A, B, C and D in the diagram:

Answer 1

A: Epidermis

B: Dermis

C-D: Hypodermis, sometimes including cutaneous trunci

Question 2

List 5 factors affecting the healing of primarily sutured wounds

Answer 2

1. Tension
2. Pressure
3. Motion
4. Self-mutilation
5. Patient health

Question 3

Compared to unwounded skin, what % strength is regained by 2 weeks post-op in ‘wounded skin’?

Answer 3

5-10%

Question 4

At what rate does re-epithelialization occur?

Answer 4

1 mm/day

Question 5

To what level can bacteria multiply in a minimally contaminated wound, in 3-6 hours

Answer 5

10⁵ CFU/gram

Question 6

What is the minimum number of thows that should be used to

1. Start 3/0 PDS suture
2. Finish 3/0 PDS suture
3. Finish 3/0 PDS suture with aberdeen knot

Answer 6

1. Min 5
2. Min 5
3. Min 3 + 1