Corner Stitch

Synonym: Half-buried horizontal mattress suture

Indications: V, Y or X-pattern laceration repair

Risk: Dermal stitch may be placed too close to the tip of the flap and compromise the tenuous blood supply

Suture: Non-absorbable

Principle: When repairing, this stitch must be placed first

Landmark sites (2 on each site of wound):

1. Point 1 along left base of Y (6-8 mm from corner)
2. Point 2 at left upper arm of Y (4 mm from corner)
3. Point 3 at right upper arm of Y (4 mm from corner)
4. Point 4 along right base of Y (6-8 mm from corner)

Technique:

1. Enter Point 1 (Dermis to Epidermis)
2. Enter Point 2 (Subcuticular)
3. Enter Point 3 (Subcuticular)
4. Enter Point 4 (Dermis to Epidermis)
5. Square knot across the base of Y (knot is placed in front of the tip of the apex).

Further reading: Modifications of Corner-stitch