Oral Surgery · single question
A child presents with a laceration of the lip. What suture material is most appropriate for closing this type of wound?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Nylon (monofilament non-resorbable)
- A. Incorrect. Chromic gut has unpredictable absorption times and more tissue reaction than nylon, making it less ideal for precise facial closure.
- B. Incorrect. Silk causes significant inflammatory tissue reaction and is generally avoided for skin closure in modern practice.
- C. Incorrect. Vicryl is resorbable and used for deeper tissue layers (muscle, subcutaneous). It is not the preferred surface suture for lip skin/mucosa.
- D. CORRECT. Nylon (monofilament non-resorbable) is the preferred suture for lip lacerations, especially at the vermilion border. Its smooth monofilament surface minimizes capillarity and tissue reaction, provides precise wound edge approximation, and allows controlled removal once healing is confirmed. This ensures a cosmetically acceptable scar.