This hands-on course will outline the principles of when to close a presenting wound by primary intention and when to choose an alternative closure strategy. Through a combination of case-based discussion, examination and correct wound preparation, you will decide, with expert facilitators, how to optimally close the presenting wound. Skills such as tissue and instrument handling, wound debridement and five different suturing methods will be taught and practiced on bespoke simple and complex synthetic and biological simulated wounds. The course will take place in the ASSERT surgical skills laboratory, and you will get the opportunity to repair both traumatic wounds and elective wound closing challenges, such as an elliptical excision of a benign lesion. There will be discussions, with faculty, on when to refer and what closure options that are available on referral.

Learning outcomes:

After doing this course you will:

• Increase your proficiency in the management of wound closure.
• Gain more confidence in decision making on wound closure strategies.
• Improve your skills in simple and more complex suturing methods.
• Gain knowledge of wound management to enable good wound healing