Ops Details Part I Flashcards
What are the types of suture materials?
- Natural
- Synthetic
- Absorbable
- Non-absorbable
- Monofilament
- Multifilament
Each type has specific characteristics and uses in surgical procedures.
What is the ideal suture material characterized by?
- Safe (sterile, non-allergenic)
- Easy to handle
- Induces minimal tissue reaction
- Not predisposed to bacterial growth
- High tensile strength
- Secure knotting
- Resistant to shrinking in tissues
- Absorbed completely
These qualities are essential for effective wound closure and healing.
Fill in the blank: Absorbable sutures are used to hold wound edges in approximation temporarily, until they can withstand _______.
normal stress
What are the characteristics of plain gut sutures?
- Loses tensile strength quickly (half-life 5-7 days)
- Produces marked tissue reactivity
Plain gut sutures are natural absorbable sutures.
What is the half-life of chromic gut sutures?
10-14 days
What are the types of non-absorbable sutures used for?
- Exterior skin closure
- Permanent encapsulation within the body cavity
- Prosthesis attachment
- Patients with a history of reaction to absorbable sutures
Non-absorbable sutures remain in place for an extended period.
True or False: Monofilament sutures have more pliability than multifilament sutures.
False
What is a purse string suture used for?
To close circular wounds such as hernia or appendiceal stump
What are the recommended suture removal times for different body areas?
- Face: 3-4 days
- Scalp: 5 days
- Trunk: 7 days
- Arm or leg: 7-10 days
- Foot: 10-14 days
Timely removal is important to prevent complications.
What are surgical drains classified by?
- Communication with atmosphere (closed or open)
- Structure of drain (flat sheet, corrugated sheet, tube, sump)
- Material (rubber, latex, plastics, siliconized)
- Pliability (soft, rigid)
- Flow (passive or active)
- Site drained (pelvic, subhepatic, subcutaneous)
Each classification helps determine the appropriate drain for specific surgical needs.
What is the rule for abscess drainage incisions?
- Incision must be at the most dependent site
- Adequate incision length
- Parallel to major vessels and nerves
- Along skin crease if possible
Proper incision technique is essential for effective drainage.
What is delayed primary closure?
Approximation of wound margin delayed for several days to prevent infection
What is the purpose of wound closure tapes?
Useful for flat, dry, nonmobile surfaces where wounds fit together with no tension
What type of wounds are tissue adhesives not useful for?
- Wounds near the eye
- Mucous membranes or mucosal surfaces
- Wet wounds or exposed to body fluids
- Areas with dense hair
- Wounds under significant tension
These conditions can complicate healing and adhesion.
What key factors are considered in the classification of surgical incisions?
- Vertical (midline, paramedian)
- Transverse (Kocher’s subcostal, McBurney’s)
- Oblique (muscle cutting)
- Abdominothoracic
The type of incision can affect recovery and surgical outcomes.
What are the steps involved in the technique of abscess drainage?
- Incision at the most dependent site
- Open cavity and expose loculi
- Pack cavity with gauze
- Leave drain in place for 48-72 hours
Proper technique is crucial for effective drainage and preventing recurrence.
What are the indications for Hilton’s Method?
Used where important structures like vessels or nerves are liable to be injured
What is the function of a Penrose drain?
Flat drain dependent on gravity and capillary action
What is healing by secondary intention?
Open wound margins spontaneously approximate by biologic contraction
What is the incision type used in the breast?
Radial incision, circumareolar, or at sub-mammary fold
How should incisions be made in the axilla?
Vertical to gap when the arm is abducted
What is the incision direction in the cubital fossa?
Transverse in the cubital crease
What is the incision direction in the gluteal region?
Downwards, lateral & forwards along fibres of gluteus maximus
What is the incision direction in the popliteal fossa?
Transverse in the popliteal crease