How Are Stitches Stitched?

Stitches, also known as sutures, are put in place using a special needle and thread by a doctor.

The Process of Stitching

Here's a breakdown of how stitches are applied:

• Preparation: The area needing stitches is cleaned and prepared.
• Sewing:
  • The doctor uses a curved needle with thread attached.
  • They pass the needle through the edges of the cut or wound, bringing the skin or tissue together. This is essentially sewing the wound edges together.
  • According to the provided reference, "A doctor uses a special needle and thread to put in stitches. They sew the edges of the cut together..."
• Securing:
  • After the edges are brought together, the doctor ties knots in the thread to keep the tissue in place.
  • These knots prevent the stitches from loosening and help the wound heal properly. As the reference states, "...and tie knots to hold the stitches in place."

Types of Stitches

While the fundamental process remains the same, there are various techniques used for stitching based on wound size, depth and location, such as:

• Simple Interrupted Stitch: Individual stitches, each with its own knot.
• Running Stitch: A series of stitches with one continuous thread.
• Subcuticular Stitch: Stitches placed under the skin.

Key Takeaways

In summary, stitching is a method used by doctors to close wounds by using a needle and thread to sew the edges of the wound together and secure them with knots.