Stay sutures

Stay sutures are a type of suture used in surgery to hold an incision or wound open while the surgeon works. They are typically removed after the procedure is completed. Stay sutures are particularly useful in procedures where the surgeon needs to maintain a clear view of the surgical field, such as in abdominal surgery or thoracic surgery.

Usage

Stay sutures are used in a variety of surgical procedures. They are often used in abdominal surgery to hold the abdominal wall open, allowing the surgeon to have a clear view of the internal organs. In thoracic surgery, stay sutures may be used to hold the ribs apart, providing access to the lungs or heart.

Stay sutures can also be used in microsurgery to hold small blood vessels or nerves in place while they are being repaired. They can also be used in ophthalmic surgery to hold the eyelids open.

Types

There are several types of stay sutures, including:

• Silk sutures: These are often used because they are strong and easy to handle. However, they can cause inflammation and are not absorbed by the body.
• Polypropylene sutures: These are non-absorbable and cause less inflammation than silk sutures. They are often used in cardiovascular and ophthalmic surgery.
• Polydioxanone sutures: These are absorbable and cause less inflammation than silk sutures. They are often used in pediatric surgery.

Complications

While stay sutures are generally safe, complications can occur. These may include infection, hematoma, seroma, and wound dehiscence. In rare cases, a stay suture may break or become dislodged, requiring additional surgery to repair.

See also

• Suture (surgery)
• Surgical suture
• List of surgical procedures

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