Why do most surgical incisions require lengthening? How to avoid it.
biomechanical · Level V
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 1395262.
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Abstract
When an incision is retracted, it shortens because skin does not actually stretch--it only shifts. A mathematical model accurately predicted operating room experience. Average retraction of 30-50% shortens an incision by 15%. Therefore, an incision to expose fixed bony landmarks should be 15% longer than the distance between them.
Medical subject headings
- Models, Theoretical
- Orthopedics