Question

Surgical incisions are more likely to heal better when they are made ____________________ in the skin.

A) Deep within the skin
B) At a slight angle to the skin
C) Parallel to the skin's natural lines (Langer's lines)
D) In a random pattern

Answer 1

Surgical incisions heal better when made parallel to the skin's natural lines (Langer's lines) as it reduces tension on the wound.

Step-by-step explanation:

Surgical incisions are more likely to heal better when they are made parallel to the skin's natural lines (Langer's lines). Langer's lines, also known as cleavage lines or tension lines, are the natural patterns of tension in the skin. When incisions are made parallel to these lines, it reduces tension on the wound and leads to better healing and less scarring. Incisions made deep within the skin, at a slight angle to the skin, or in a random pattern may not follow the natural lines of tension and can result in poorer healing outcomes.