Basic Surgical Skills

Resources for surgical skills, suturing and knot tying

Basic Surgical Skills Log Book

Please download and print the basic surgical skills log book, and bring it with you when you come to the skills lab. Students need to practice each technique in order before progressing to the next on the list. The Practiced column can be completed in the skills lab. To complete the Mastered column the skill needs to be performed in front of, and signed by, a Surgical Consultant/Registrar.

Basic Surgical Skills Logbook v1.1

Learning Resources

Please read and watch the following resources before the coming to the skills lab because they will provide valuable background knowledge and allow more time spent practising skills.

RACS Essential Surgical Skills – recommended skills to be mastered prior to applying for Surgical Education and Training (SET)

JDocs – Surgical Skills Videos 

Boston University – Basic Knots and Sutures

Boston University – Suturing Basics

ANZ Journal of Surgery – Suturing and Knot Tying Videos

Covidien Knot Tying Manual

Ethicon Knot Tying Manual

Animated Knots – Hand Ties

NEJM Basic Laceration Repair Article and Video

Basic Surgical Skills YouTube Channel by the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh