What is the main purpose of sutures in surgical procedures?

The primary purpose of sutures in surgical procedures is to hold tissue together. Sutures are used to close wounds or surgical incisions securely, facilitating proper healing and restoration of the tissue's integrity. When tissues are approximated and held in place with sutures, it promotes the natural healing process by allowing the body to repair the skin, muscles, or other involved structures without interference from movement or outside elements.

This stabilization is crucial to prevent complications such as dehiscence, where the wound reopens, or improper healing, which can lead to scarring or infection. While protecting against infection is an important consideration in surgical procedures, the main role of sutures is mechanical support and alignment of the tissues. Similarly, reducing blood flow or providing structure are not the direct purposes of sutures; instead, their main function revolves around apposition of tissues to aid in healing.