Which suture technique provides tension across wound edges?

The mattress suture technique is specifically designed to provide tension across wound edges, which is particularly beneficial for closing larger or more tensioned wounds. This technique involves passing the suture perpendicular to the wound edges and then back through the tissue, which creates a "mattress" effect. This structure allows for better distribution of tension across a larger area, reducing the risk of tissue strangulation or necrosis.

Additionally, the mattress suture provides added support and can help in eversion, bringing the edges of the wound above skin level, which promotes proper healing and minimizes scarring. Its design allows for varying degrees of tension to be applied, making it a versatile choice in various surgical scenarios where wound edge approximation is critical.

Other suture techniques, such as interrupted sutures, also serve to close wounds but do not have the same capability to create and distribute tension across the wound edges in the way that mattress sutures do. A purse-string suture is typically used to gather tissue, often seen in circular defects, while surgical gut sutures refer to the material used rather than a specific technique.