Which type of closure technique uses a series of stitches that are evenly spaced to distribute tension?

The continuous closure technique involves the use of a single thread that runs continuously along the incision or wound, with evenly spaced stitches. This method is particularly effective for distributing tension evenly across the length of the wound, which helps to minimize the risk of dehiscence (wound separation) and promotes better cosmetic outcomes. By managing the tension throughout the closure, continuous suturing can lead to less tissue trauma compared to other methods, making it a favored choice for linear wounds.

In contrast, interrupted closure consists of individual stitches that are tied off and knotted separately, which can be beneficial for managing localized tension or for situations where there is a higher risk of infection. Each stitch manages its own portion of the wound, leading to a different distribution of tension. Similarly, subcuticular closure places stitches just beneath the skin's surface and provides a more cosmetic result but doesn't distribute tension across an entire line as effectively as continuous closure. The figure-of-eight closure is primarily used for specific situations like securing tissue in place and is not aimed at evenly distributing tension across a wound like continuous closure.