Which of the following is MOST commonly used for wound closure in the presence of infection?

Stainless steel is the most commonly used material for wound closure in the presence of infection because it is non-absorbable, which allows for effective closure while minimizing the risk of further complication from the infected site. Its inertness means that it does not harbor bacteria, and the material’s smooth surface facilitates healing without promoting additional inflammation.

In cases where infection is present, the choice of suture material is critical. Stainless steel sutures have excellent tensile strength and are resistant to breaking under stress, which is important for maintaining closure in compromised tissues. They also can be removed easily once the infection is under control or the healing process is sufficiently advanced.

Other materials like polyglactin-910 and plain gut are absorbable and may not provide the same level of support in infected tissues. Silk, while strong and easy to handle, can provide a greater risk for harboring bacteria due to its braided nature. Thus, stainless steel stands out as the most appropriate choice in these circumstances.