This specialized needle is most commonly used for closing incisions after embalming, especially in situations where a cranial autopsy has been performed. Its curved shape allows us to follow the natural contours of the body (like the scalp, neck, or torso) making it easier to suture securely and cleanly. But not every case calls for sutures. For example, in women who may be dressed in low-cut or V-neck tops, I will sometimes take a different approach. Instead of visible sutures along the clavicl