Every clinician in the outpatient setting routinely addresses issues related to wound care or wound closure, including the challenges posed by traumatic wounds. Many physicians care for an array of skin problems and perform skin biopsies or excisions with the goal of improved cosmoses, diagnosis, or cure. This course is designed for clinicians who have minimal suturing skills, but is also a great course to upgrade skills for those who need more experience. Whether traumatic or iatrogenic, the goals in caring for wounds are to obtain complete closure while minimizing complications, such as infection or unsightly scarring. 

During this course, participants will gain insight into the anatomy of the skin, principles of healing, and basic wound care. Basic biopsy and excision techniques, suturing methods, undermining, skin stapling, and the application of adhesives will be demonstrated and practiced. An abundance of hands-on time is scheduled to refine suturing skills.