What type of needles are most commonly used for suturing?

The most commonly used needles for suturing are curved taper needles. These needles are designed with a smooth taper that allows them to easily penetrate and pass through soft tissue with minimal trauma, making them ideal for closing surgical incisions or wounds. Their design facilitates smooth passage through tissue, which can reduce the risk of tearing and improve healing.

While blunt needles are primarily used in situations where there is a risk of damaging delicate tissues, reverse cutting needles have a specific application in thicker tissues and are generally less versatile. Standard cutting needles, on the other hand, have sharp edges that can be effective for certain types of tissue but are not as commonly employed as taper needles, which provide a good balance between ease of use and tissue preservation. Thus, for general suturing purposes, curved taper needles are preferred due to their effectiveness and the gentle handling of soft tissue.