Suturing for surgical success.

The paramount goal of soft tissue surgery is closure of wound flaps, in the absence of tension on the flaps, which will lead to optimal wound healing. Surgical procedures that require flap manipulation such as those used with traditional periodontal therapy, periodontal plastic cosmetic surgery, hard and soft tissue regeneration, and the excision of pathologic tissue require excellence in execution and a thorough understanding of the various techniques of surgery, suturing and the materials currently available to ensure the desired clinical results. This article will discuss several of the suture materials available and the rationale of specific suturing techniques to aid the clinician in obtaining optimal wound closure.