Stitches are medical devices used to hold body tissues together, facilitating the healing process after an injury or surgical procedure. They play a fundamental role in wound closure by approximating the edges of a cut or incision. A common question people often have regarding their stitches is whether they will disappear on their own over time. Understanding the type of stitches you have can help manage expectations during the healing phase.
Dissolvable vs. Non-Dissolvable Stitches
Sutures are broadly categorized into two main types based on how the body interacts with their materials. Dissolvable, or absorbable, stitches are crafted from materials designed to naturally break down and be absorbed by the body over time. These materials can be natural, like catgut, or synthetic polymers such as polyglycolic acid (PGA), polyglactin 910 (Vicryl), polydioxanone (PDS), and poliglecaprone (Monocryl). The body breaks down natural dissolvable stitches through enzymatic degradation, while synthetic ones are absorbed via hydrolysis.
These stitches are frequently chosen for internal closures, deeper wounds, or in areas where manual removal would be challenging or undesirable, such as after oral surgery or to repair muscle and connective tissue. The time it takes for them to fully dissolve varies, ranging from a few days to several months, depending on the specific material and the wound’s location.
In contrast, non-dissolvable, or non-absorbable, stitches are made from materials that the body cannot break down. These materials include natural fibers like silk, and various synthetic options such as nylon (polyamide), polypropylene, polyester, and even stainless steel. Since the body does not absorb them, these stitches require manual removal by a healthcare professional once the wound has sufficiently healed. Non-dissolvable sutures are used for skin closures, in areas needing long-term structural support like fascia and tendons, or in situations where easy access for removal is possible.
The Role of Color in Stitch Identification
Suture manufacturers often dye their materials for improved visibility during medical procedures. This coloration allows surgeons to more easily distinguish the suture from surrounding body tissues. The distinct colors also help healthcare providers quickly identify different suture types on equipment trays, streamlining preparation for surgical procedures.
When it comes to blue stitches, many synthetic dissolvable sutures are commonly dyed blue. This blue hue aids surgeons in precise placement. However, some non-dissolvable sutures are also colored blue, with polypropylene and certain nylon sutures being common examples. While color can offer a clue, it is not a definitive method to determine whether a stitch will dissolve. Not all blue stitches are dissolvable, and conversely, not all dissolvable stitches are blue; they can also be various other colors or be undyed.
Determining Your Stitch Type and Next Steps
The most reliable way to determine if your stitches are dissolvable is to confirm with the healthcare provider who placed them. Your medical records or discharge instructions contain specific details about the type of suture material used. This information is the most accurate source for understanding your stitches.
While visual cues like color can offer a hint, they are not foolproof indicators of whether stitches will dissolve. After receiving stitches, consistent basic care, such as keeping the wound area clean and dry, is important for proper healing.
Regardless of stitch type, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention. These include:
- Increased pain
- Spreading redness
- Swelling or warmth around the wound
- Pus or any unusual discharge
- Foul smell
- Fever
- Red streaks extending from the wound
- Stitches appearing to come undone prematurely
Avoid attempting to remove stitches yourself unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional, as this can lead to complications or infection.