Suturing seals and repairs most injuries that stitches cannot handle. Doctors choose the size and type of needle depending on the patient’s operating procedure. If a patient has undergone surgery or is injured, the doctor selects the best apparatus to close up the area. Doing so prevents infections and bleeding.
Repairing lacerations is an interesting procedure since it restores patients’ appearance. However, for efficiency, doctors must use the right tools. Suture needle type and size are the most important considerations before starting laceration repair.
Here’s a breakdown of the different types and sizes, according to medical experts:
Types of Needles for Sutures
You cannot generalize needles and use them for all repair procedures. Before starting a procedure, determine the extent of damage to choose the needle better. Doctors use two common types of suture needles, as explained below:
- Cutting Needles
These needles have sharp tips and edges. These features make them the perfect fit to penetrate the patient’s skin and place sutures. Use reverse-cutting needles if the injury or operation site has tough tissues.
- Tapered Needles
The tips of these needles are sharp, and the edges smooth. Usually, doctors use these needles when suturing sites with subcutaneous tissues since they don’t pass through the skin easily.
Needle Sizes for Suturing
After choosing the right type of needle, check the size. A needle’s size depends on its length and curvature. Doctors use needles with large curvatures when delicate tissues need isolation from neighboring structures.
In addition, longer needles are perfect for grasping more tissue and better control. So, always think about the use of the needle before choosing a needle. Here are two examples of needle type and size depending on the application:
| Needle Blade Type | Laceration Area | Length | Curvature |
| Taperpoint | Blood Vessel | 5cm | ⅜ circle |
| Reverse cutting | Skin | 18cm, 27cm, 45cm, 70cm | ⅜ circle |
While choosing a needle for laceration repair, consider the blade type and needle tip. On top of that, think of the size. This helps choose better tools, making procedures fast and successful.
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