Simple interrupted suture

The simple interrupted suture is the most basic and versatile suturing technique. It is often the first stitch taught to beginners because it is easy to learn, easy to place, and easy to adjust individually. Each stitch is placed and tied separately, which means that if one stitch fails, the others remain intact.

This technique is useful for clean, straightforward skin wounds and for wounds where precise edge approximation is needed. It provides good control over wound edge alignment and allows removal of individual stitches without disturbing the entire closure. Because each stitch stands alone, it is also helpful in wounds where tension may vary along different parts of the incision.

Students should focus on equal bite depth and width on both sides of the wound, consistent spacing, and a properly tied square knot. The stitch should approximate the skin edges without causing excessive blanching or tension.