Surgical Knots and Suturing Techniques

The fourth edition of Surgical Knots and Suturing Techniques includes updated information regarding suture materials, sterilization products and improvements to all illustrations. The knot tying techniques continue to be the primary content.

This handbook is directed to medical students, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, emergency medical technicians, surgical assistants, animal research specialists and the important but rarely addressed community of food animal producers. Important information for cleaning, sterilizing and preparing the surgical field in addition to closing acute wounds and incisions is included. Much of this information was previously available in The Pocket Manual of Basic Surgical Skills, Mosby, 1986.

Professional medical and paramedical curricula include extensive training in aseptic and sterile techniques as well as educating students in wound management. Animal science curricula educates the potential livestock producer in management procedures but leaves the problems involving the health of the animals to the veterinary profession. However, there are occasions when livestock producers, backcountry travelers, and ocean going mates and captains are confronted with problems needing immediate attention. The procedures included in this handbook can be helpful in preparing those individuals for such crises.

Learning surgical knot tying and suturing techniques is challenging and much practice is required to develop proficiency. This handbook is a guide explaining and demonstrating the principle maneuvers of surgical knot tying along with a step-by-step description of each maneuver. The illustrations make each step of knot tying understandable and easier to learn.

The necessary materials are available through medical school facilities and veterinary supply stores. Stockmen needing supplies for emergency treatment of domestic animals should ask their veterinarian for materials and instructions. Materials are also available online.

Consultations with authors of the books I have illustrated for human and veterinary medicine throughout my career are the primary source for the information contained in this book.