Final answer:
Capillary sutures are more likely to wick fluids and should not be used in contaminated environments; monofilament sutures are preferred because they do not wick fluids. Tight junctions in epithelial layers help prevent microbial entry into underlying tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of suture material that is more likely to "wick" fluid along it, and thus should not be used in a contaminated environment, is a capillary suture material. These materials can draw fluids by capillary action along the strands of the suture, potentially spreading infection. In contaminated environments, healthcare providers typically use monofilament sutures because they have a smooth surface that resists wicking. In contrast, multifilament or braided sutures are more likely to wick fluids due to the interstitial spaces between the fibers. Capillary action is similar to what is observed with biofilms on medical devices, like the catheter shown in the electron micrograph or the biofilm on the garbage can used as a rain collector.
Prevention of Microbes Entering Underlying Tissue
The human body uses a particularly dense suite of tight junctions in epithelial layers, like those found in the skin, the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, and the blood-brain barrier, to prevent microbes from entering the underlying tissue. These tight junctions act as barriers to protect tissues from pathogen invasion.