In suturing, what is the difference between intracorporeal knots and extracorporeal knots?

In suturing, what is the difference between intracorporeal knots and extracorporeal knots?

• A. Intracorporeal knots are tied entirely inside the abdomen with instruments; extracorporeal knots are tied outside the body and then advanced into the abdomen.
• B. Intracorporeal knots are tied outside the body and then advanced inside.
• C. Extracorporeal knots are tied inside the abdomen with instruments.
• D. There is no difference between intracorporeal and extracorporeal knots.

Answer: (A)

In laparoscopy, the distinguishing idea is where the knot is formed and how it is deployed. Intracorporeal knots are tied entirely inside the abdomen using laparoscopic instruments, so the knot is created within the body and secured there. Extracorporeal knots are tied outside the body and then advanced into the abdomen, typically using a knot pusher or by pulling the suture ends to slide the knot into place. This is why the correct description is that intracorporeal knots are formed inside with instruments, while extracorporeal knots are tied outside and then advanced inside. The other statements mix up where the knot is tied or claim there is no difference.