What is the primary purpose of using interrupted sutures in surgery?

The primary purpose of using interrupted sutures in surgery is indeed to immobilize the flap. Interrupted sutures provide individual support to the tissue segments, allowing each area to be securely anchored. This immobilization is crucial for maintaining the position of a flap, such as in surgical procedures involving skin or tissue grafts, as it ensures that the tissue stays in optimal position for healing and promotes a good blood supply to the area.

While other options may have relevance in specific contexts, they do not capture the fundamental function of interrupted sutures as effectively as the immobilization aspect does. For instance, while preventing infection is a general goal of all suturing techniques, it is not the specific purpose of interrupted sutures. Similarly, improving cosmetic appearance and reducing recovery time can be related outcomes, but they are secondary to the primary goal of ensuring stability and proper positioning of the surgical flap during the healing process.