Names of Surgical Stitching Instruments
Surgical stitching is a critical technique used to close wounds, whether they are external on the skin or internal within the body. This process involves the use of various specialized instruments, which may vary depending on the type and location of the wound. Surgeons rely on an array of tools to perform stitching with precision and skill. The following list highlights some of the most important instruments utilized in surgical stitching:
Needles
Surgical needles can be categorized into numerous shapes and types based on the following characteristics:
- Edge design, such as sharp needles or round-bodied needles, which are utilized for delicate tissues like intestines and muscle tissues.
- The curvature of the needle; for instance, a sharply curved needle is preferred for general surgical procedures, whereas a straight needle is typically used for stitching skin or subcutaneous tissues.
Surgical Threads
Surgical threads can be classified into absorbable and non-absorbable types. Absorbable threads are crafted from materials that the body can digest over time through tissue enzymes, including poly-dioxanone and polyglycolic acid threads. Conversely, non-absorbable threads, such as nylon and silk, require surgical removal once the wound has healed.
Needle Holders
Needle holders feature a secure gripping end and a mechanism for quick opening and closing, preventing the needle from rotating during stitching. Typically composed of durable, rust-resistant tungsten, needle holders are selected based on the size of the needle. Titanium holders are particularly favored for their lightweight properties, making them ideal for extended surgical procedures.
Forceps
Forceps come in various types, including non-locking or grasping forceps, which are used to capture and hold tissues or other body parts. These may have serrated or non-serrated tips. The second type is the locking clamp or hemostatic forceps, designed for securing tissues. They are available in various forms and designs. Additional types of forceps include those for handling sterile gauze and vessels, as well as a forceps specifically designed to stabilize sterile materials around a wound.
Skin Staplers
Skin staplers are resilient instruments that facilitate wound closure by tightly securing the tissue. They can be utilized in both external and internal applications.
Scissors
Surgical scissors are essential for dissecting and cutting tissues or threads during stitching procedures. They come in various shapes and sizes; for example, heavier, larger scissors are suited for cutting surgical threads or gauze and are known as suture scissors. These can have straight or curved tips.
Additional Tools
Various adhesive materials for wound closure exist, differing by the wound’s location and depth. Clamps, also referred to as retractors, are utilized to open incisions within tissues.