Background: Needle sticks are one of the most common and feared occupational hazards that surgeons face.
Objective: To devise a safer and more efficient suturing method.
Methods: A cuticular stitch that minimizes direct contact with the needle is described. The literature is searched for similar suturing methods.
Results: Decreased direct contact with the needle lowers the risk for inadvertent sticks. Efficiency is improved when superfluous steps are eliminated from the suturing technique.
Conclusion: Single-handed needle holder loading enhances safety while optimizing efficiency during the placement of cuticular stitches.