An Introduction to the Absorptive Suture and How They Are Used

Nov 22
09:49

2016

Rosario Berry

Rosario Berry

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An absorptive suture relies on biological material to degrade over time and allow the body to absorb the materials. While not appropriate for all situations this type of suture has become increasingly common as it provides a simple way patients and doctors to close certain wounds and minimize healing times. There are several different options available in the marketplace which can make it difficult to know which type of suture material is best to use for specific situations.

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Many of the absorptive suture products on the market rely on an absorbable synthetic fiber. The specific material plays a key role on a when the suture can be used. Strength retention is largely dependent upon the type of material and is a key factor in deciding when to use absorptive suture or traditional suture. Along with the initial strength of the material it is important to consider in vivo strength retention as well. Some absorptive material only offers 50% in vivo strength retention after one week while others offer 75% after one week and 60% after six weeks.


There are a variety of characteristics individual absorptive suture materials have. For example,An Introduction to the Absorptive Suture and How They Are Used Articles monofilament sutures emphasize the advantages of a smooth surface which leads to less tissue trauma however these materials can be more difficult to handle and tie knots with. On the other hand, multi filament sutures offer excellent handling and strength but can lead to more significant tissue trauma. The biological suture provides numerous benefits but can lead to tissue reactions if there is an allergic reaction. Generally, an absorbable suture breaks down the body by hydrolysis which means there is no foreign body left. Unfortunately, if this happens too quickly the wound may not receive the support it needs and reopen.


Traditionally, absorbable sutures are most often used in the dermal layer where they can’t be accessed again. This allows them to maintain tensile strength initially but hydrolyze over time as the scar tissue matures. Over the past five years, it is become more common for absorptive sutures to be used for closures of superficial skin layers as well. This is particularly true in pediatrics where the fear of suture removal can be just as dramatic as the idea of having sutures placed. As an added benefit, several replicated studies note that within the realm of pediatrics and absorptive suture can be an acceptable alternative in terms of overall efficacy and cosmetic outcomes.


As the number of absorptive suture options continues to grow there is no doubt they will become stronger and easier to use for extensive wound healing. While many medical professionals still prefer non-absorptive sutures for cosmetic purposes, the rapid advancement and tensile strength and usability has made the absorptive suture more popular than ever before.