All You Need To Know About Non Absorbable Sutures

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black braided silk suture
22April 2022

When it comes to the surgical profession, tools are just as crucial as those using them. Whether it is scissors, knives, etc., or something like sutures, the surgeon must know all about their nature and how to use it. Non-absorbable sutures, like black silk sutures, are essential types of sutures in several cases.

When it comes to an understanding the nature and use of these non-absorbable sutures, many things must be remarked upon. Some of the most important of these factors are discussed below:

Absorbable Versus Non-Absorbable Sutures

Sutures are used to hold two tissues together, which is critical after surgery. They are often categorized into two types – absorbable and non-absorbable. As their name suggests, absorbable sutures will be absorbed by the very tissues they are holding together. That makes another procedure for removing them unnecessarily; non-absorbable sutures are those sutures that cannot be absorbed by the tissues they are absorbing. That means that additional procedure is required to remove them when they are no longer required after being used to close skin incisions. Those used within the body may be left there indefinitely as they remain unabsorbed.

Material Used

Under common pharmaceutical practices, the materials that can be for non-absorbable sutures are cotton, linen, silk, stainless steel, nylon, Prolene, courlene, etc. Each of these has its own specific use and purpose arising out of specific properties of the material in question.

Applications And How To Use

Absorbable sutures have a number of uses. Silk Sutures, in particular, have been used for centuries already. While using them for various types of surgeries, the following factors must be given due consideration

1. How easily removable are they if need be?

2. How strong are they?

3. How much tissue damage do they cause?

4. How flexible are they?

5. How easy are they to use?

6. How secure are they?

Multifilament’s Vs. Monofilaments

Synthetic non-absorbable sutures may be made of polyamide, polypropylene, and polyethylene, or a combination of these. When a combination of these three is used, it is referred to as a multifilament. 

Monofilaments, on the hand, have only one of these materials. It has had a smoother texture which makes them easier to handle. It also causes less tissue damage. On the other hand, Multifilament’s have the advantages such as being more flexible and easier to work with and being more durable. However, the braided design in these sutures can make them far more prone to being a breeding zone for bacteria. Thus, they are specifically avoided where there are chances of infection or tissue damage.  

Wrapping up

While we wrap up, we must add that while non-absorbable sutures may have several applications and are a great friend of surgeons, they must be used carefully and given after due consideration to both the material and the supplier. Only a black silk suture supplier who has a recognized brand and a good internet presence should be considered while looking to meet one’s need for sutures.