seromuscular suture
Pronunciation: see-roh-MUS-kew-lar
Surgical suture technique that incorporates the serosal and muscular layers while avoiding mucosal penetration.
Full Definition
A seromuscular suture is a specific surgical technique used in intestinal surgery where the suture passes through the serosal (outer) layer and the muscular wall of the bowel while deliberately avoiding penetration of the mucosal (inner) layer. This technique is commonly employed in creating inverting anastomoses, performing serosal patches for small perforations, and reinforcing suture lines. The advantage of this approach is that it provides strong tissue purchase while minimizing the risk of suture line infection or fistula formation that can occur when sutures traverse the contaminated mucosal layer.
Usage
Usage note: Specify suture material and size when documenting use.
In Context
- "The anastomosis was reinforced with interrupted seromuscular sutures using 3-0 silk." — operative report
- "Seromuscular suture technique was employed to avoid mucosal contamination of the suture line." — surgical technique description