What type of stitch is known as a horizontal mattress?

The horizontal mattress stitch is a type of suturing technique primarily used to evert the edges of an incision or wound, making it particularly effective for closing skin or subcutaneous tissues. This technique provides a secure closure while also helping to minimize the risk of tension on the edges of the wound.

The horizontal mattress can be distinguished because it provides additional stability compared to simple interrupted sutures, which directly approximate the edges without the additional layer of tension distribution. By involving several passes of the needle, it effectively evens out the tension across the wound, which is essential in surgical closures where minimizing scarring and promoting good healing are priorities.

In respect to the other options, while continuous, combined, and interrupted stitches serve their unique purposes in various surgical contexts, they do not specifically offer the specialized function of eversion and tension management associated with the horizontal mattress stitch. Therefore, understanding this specific function is crucial for selecting the appropriate stitch in surgical practice.