Tying the Surgical Square Knot

Abstract

OPEN ACCESSJune 4, 2010Tying the Surgical Square Knot William Brescia, PhD, Steven Van Voorst, MD William Brescia, PhD University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine Google Scholar More articles by this author , Steven Van Voorst, MD HTHSC Google Scholar More articles by this author https://doi.org/10.15766/mep_2374-8265.7817 SectionsAboutAbstract ToolsDownload Citations ShareFacebookTwitterEmail AbstractAbstract Introduction: There are two basic techniques for tying the surgical square knot: the one-hand technique and the two-hand technique. The techniques differ in the fingers that they use. Students are often challenged as much by the skill of tying the surgical square knot as by anything else in the surgery clerkship. Although introduction to the task should take place in a face-to-face learning environment, the necessity for practice means study aids are useful in helping students learn to tie the surgical square knot. Methods: This self-directed learning module provides instructions on how to accomplish this foundational skill. The instructor's guide presents an overview of the module, including video content, assessment of mastery, advance preparation, and required resources. The 14.5-minute video covers the two basic techniques of tying the surgical square knot. Different grips are presented, as well as real-time demonstrations and step-by-step guidance for each technique. Instrument tying of square knots is also demonstrated. Results: Assessment of tying the surgical square knot begins with self-assessment. Once the learner feels comfortable with the skill, it must be demonstrated during a clinical situation. This is a pass/fail skill—a knot that is not tied properly will leak. The test is simple: The knot works or it does not. Discussion: This module has been used with third- and fourth-year medical students for a number of years. It functions best when combined with face-to-face instruction and the included PDF handout. Educational Objectives By the end of this module, learners will be able to demonstrate the two basic techniques of tying surgical square knots. Sign up for the latest publications from MedEdPORTAL Add your email below FILES INCLUDEDReferencesRelatedDetails FILES INCLUDED Included in this publication: Instructor's Guide.doc Surgical Square Knot.pdf SgKnot.mov To view all publication components, extract (i.e., unzip) them from the downloaded .zip file. Download editor’s noteThis publication may contain technology or a display format that is no longer in use. Copyright & Permissions© 2010 Brescia and Van Voorst. This is an open-access publication distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike license.KeywordsTyingSquare KnotEquipmentSurgical TechniquesOperative Surgical Procedures Disclosures None to report. Funding/Support None to report. Loading ...