Question

question 40

a surgeon opens her patient by cutting the integument parallel to the cleavage lines of the dermis (tension lines). this results in

a - greater chance of infection

b - less chance for infection

c - slowed healing and greater scarring

d - faster healing of the skin and less scarring

Explanation:

Analyze the surgical scenario

Using the Dermis Structure knowledge point

The question asks about the physiological consequence of making a surgical incision parallel to the cleavage lines (also known as tension lines or Langer's lines) of the dermis.

Understand cleavage lines

Cleavage lines represent the prevailing direction of collagen fiber bundles within the reticular layer of the dermis. These fibers run in parallel patterns throughout the body to resist natural skin tension.

Evaluate the physical impact of parallel cuts

An incision made parallel to these lines cuts between the collagen bundles rather than across them. This minimizes disruption to the structural integrity of the dermis.

Determine the clinical outcome

Because the collagen fibers are not severed transversely, the wound edges do not pull apart under tension. This leads to faster healing of the skin and significantly less scarring.

Match with the correct option

Comparing this outcome to the choices:

• Option A and B refer to infection, which is primarily controlled by sterile technique rather than the direction of the cut.
• Option C describes the opposite effect (slowed healing and greater scarring), which occurs when cutting perpendicular to cleavage lines.
• Option D correctly states "faster healing of the skin and less scarring".

Answer:

• (A) greater chance of infection
• (B) less chance for infection
• (C) slowed healing and greater scaring
• (D) faster healing of the skin and less scaring (Correct answer)