What is a suture?

A suture is specifically defined as a surgical stitch that is used to join the edges of an incision or wound. This is a crucial component in surgical procedures as it allows for proper healing and closure of tissues. Sutures help to hold tissues together until the natural healing process occurs, providing support and preventing complications such as infection or excessive bleeding. They can be made from various materials, including absorbable and non-absorbable types, catering to different surgical requirements and healing processes.

In contrast, other options do not align with the definition of a suture. A tool for cutting tissue pertains to instruments like scalpels or surgical scissors, while sterilizing surgical instruments is a separate process to maintain aseptic conditions in the operating room. Medications used in surgery typically refer to anesthetics or other pharmacological agents, which serve different functions unrelated to the mechanical closing of wounds. Therefore, the essence of a suture lies in its fundamental role in wound closure and tissue management in medical practices.