••• Chapter 6^ Operative Obstetrics Pearls^71
❍ What is the term used for a suture’s tendency to return to original form after stretching?
Elasticity.
❍ What are the three surgical needle types that are currently available?
Swaged, controlled release (“pop-off ”), and open.
❍ Of the forceps (pickups) dressing, tissue, or Russian, which may be utilized to grab the needle?
None. Although occasional use of the forceps to grab a needle is of little consequence, none of these should be used
for grasping the needle.
❍ Name the types of knots pictured.
A is a square knot and B is a surgeon’s square knot (2 = 1).
❍ What is the name of this self-retaining perineal retractor that may be utilized to provide retraction for repair
of vaginal tears?
Gelpi.
❍ What is the National Research Council’s classification of surgical wounds for a cesarean delivery in labor?
Contaminated.