Second small bites suturing course
4 NOVEMBER 2026
Funding for the Gynaecology Team has again been provided by York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity for the ‘small bites’ suturing course. For the second year running ten surgeons are to be taking part in a hands-on training session to master the “small bites” suturing technique.
This year the team will be practicing on individual bellies that have been developed along with the course teachers to ensure that those taking part can continue to practice the technique at home. These ‘bellies’ are smaller in size, focussing on the area surrounding the incision site, as opposed to the whole belly. The original bellies used last time were repaired after each session, however, there would only be four ‘good’ session out of them.
The ten surgeons will be learning the same “small bites” method which involves using smaller stitches placed closer together when closing the abdominal wall. This approach spreads tension more evenly across the wound and supports better healing. Research has shown that it reduces the risk of incisional hernias and other wound complications. By lowering these risks, it helps protect patients’ long-term health and quality of life, while also reducing the need for further treatment and overall costs to the NHS.
A big thank you to the Charity for supporting training that directly improves patient care across the Trust.
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