Which type of stitch is used primarily for closure of skin incisions?

The subcuticular suture is primarily used for closure of skin incisions because it allows for a neat and cosmetic closure, minimizing visible scarring. This technique involves placing sutures just beneath the skin, providing a secure closure while concealing the suture line within the dermis. This results in a more aesthetically pleasing outcome, which is particularly important in areas exposed to view, such as the face and neck.

The choice of a subcuticular suture aligns with the goal of reducing tension on the skin edges and supporting them in a way that promotes healing without the need for external sutures, which can irritate or injure the skin. This technique is often preferred in elective surgical procedures where cosmetic results are a priority.

Other types of sutures, while having their own applications, do not provide the same quality of skin closure outcome that the subcuticular stitch offers. For example, the continuous suture provides rapid closure but may be less effective in terms of scar appearance, while interrupted sutures can lead to more noticeable marks at the suture sites. The figure-of-eight stitch, typically used in specialized situations, does not serve the primary purpose of skin closure as effectively as the subcuticular method.