suture
What does "suture" mean?
A suture is a stitch or series of stitches used to hold the edges of a wound or surgical incision together while it heals. The mental image is that of a needle and thread pulling two separated pieces of skin toward one another, binding them securely so that the natural healing process can take place without the edges pulling apart. In clinical settings, "suture" is used both as a noun (the stitch itself) and a verb (the act of stitching). While doctors and nurses use the term professionally, you might hear it in casual conversation when someone describes a medical procedure or an injury that required professional attention. It is rarely used in everyday, non-medical contexts.
"suture" in conversation
At the urgent care clinic
The cut is deep, so I'm going to have to place a few sutures.
The cut is deep, so I'm going to have to place a few sutures.
Will it leave a noticeable scar?
Will it leave a noticeable scar?
If you follow the aftercare instructions, it should heal quite well.
If you follow the aftercare instructions, it should heal quite well.
Doctors often use the noun form 'sutures' to refer to the stitches collectively.
Discussing a pet's surgery
Did the vet have to suture the incision on your dog's leg?
Did the vet have to suture the incision on your dog's leg?
Yes, but he keeps trying to lick them, so he has to wear a cone.
Yes, but he keeps trying to lick them, so he has to wear a cone.
The verb 'to suture' describes the specific medical action of closing a wound.
"suture" in a sentence
The surgeon applied a suture to the small cut.
The surgeon applied a suture to the small cut.
She needed several sutures after the accident.
She needed several sutures after the accident.
The delicate tissue was sutured with precision to minimize scarring.
The delicate tissue was sutured with precision to minimize scarring.
