Absorbable sutures: chronicles and applications

Abstract

Surgical sutures are used to bind tissues together to help in wound closure and healing after surgery or trauma. Surgical suture materials for medical purposes are available in a variety of forms, the most common of which are absorbable and non-absorbable. Absorbable sutures were traditionally exclusively utilised for approximating internal tissues. However, using absorbable sutures in percutaneous wound closure has recently gained popularity. Absorbable sutures provide many advantages, including eliminating the need for another clinic visit to remove the sutures as well as low risk of infections and minimal scarring. One of the recent advances in absorbable sutures: barb sutures, by removing knots, dispersing wound tension, and increasing closure efficiency, have changed the way doctors work on them. Suture material classes have recently been developed based on their qualities and abilities to promote tissue approximation and wound healing. Surgeons should choose an appropriate suture material for tissue approximation which enhances the healing effect and minimises scaring possibilities. To avoid ischemia, excessive wound tension, and tissue damage, it is necessary to understand their properties. Antibacterial agents have also been added to the absorbable suture materials to provide an extra layer of protection by making it more resistant to infection while still maintaining its high tensile strength and good handling. The present article attempts to describe different absorbable suture materials available along with their respective applications.