Intermediate Breakout - Suturing Techniques

1.0 AAPA Category 1 CME credit

Following lesion removal, the patient’s lasting impression often lies in the visible outcome—the surgical signature, marked by the suture. Mastery of suturing techniques plays a critical role in minimizing tension, achieving hemostasis, promoting optimal wound healing, and enhancing cosmetic results. This session will focus on the principles and techniques that contribute to high-quality closures, with the goal of optimizing every aspect of the surgical outcome from the outset.

At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:

• Review key suturing techniques used in dermatologic surgery to optimize wound closure, minimize tension, and improve cosmetic outcomes;
• Demonstrate appropriate technique selection and execution to ensure functional and aesthetic success in dermatologic surgical closures;
• Identify common pitfalls in suturing techniques that may compromise wound healing or cosmetic outcomes, and learn strategies to avoid them;
• Evaluate wound characteristics and patient factors that influence closure decisions, including tension, location, and comorbidities.