In suturing, 'chatter' refers to what?

• A. Knot loosening
• B. Suture breakage
• C. Lack of smoothness as a knot tightens
• D. Tissue tearing

Answer: (C)

Chatter tests how smoothly a knot tightens. It’s the feel of rough, uneven tightening as the suture strands slide against each other and against tissue, rather than a clean, controlled pull. That lack of smoothness is what we’re diagnosing when we talk about chatter, and it can signal that the knot may not lock securely if the process isn’t improved.

This isn’t about the knot slipping after tying (knot loosening), nor about the suture material breaking, nor about tissue tearing. It’s specifically about the irregular resistance and friction encountered while tightening the knot, which, if unresolved, can affect knot security. To reduce chatter, use proper technique, appropriate suture and needle, and controlled, steady tension during tightening.