Dissolvable stitches, also known as absorbable sutures, are a type of surgical thread designed to naturally break down and be absorbed by the body. These specialized stitches eliminate the need for manual removal, offering a convenient solution. Their primary purpose is to hold wound edges together during initial healing, promoting proper tissue alignment and supporting the body’s natural repair.
Understanding Dissolvable Stitches
They are crafted from materials the body safely processes and absorbs. These materials categorize into synthetic polymers and natural substances. Common synthetic options include polyglactin 910, polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), and polydioxanone (PDS). Natural materials, such as catgut, derive from purified animal intestines.
Healthcare providers select dissolvable stitches for internal closures, like after organ surgeries or deep tissue repairs, where removal would be challenging. They are also used in areas like the mouth after dental procedures or in pediatric patients, minimizing follow-up appointments. These sutures provide temporary support, allowing the wound to gain strength before dissipating.
The Dissolution Process
Dissolvable stitches break down through biological mechanisms. For synthetic sutures, the primary process is hydrolysis. This involves water molecules gradually penetrating the suture material and breaking down its chemical bonds.
Natural sutures, such as catgut, absorb through enzymatic degradation. In this process, the body’s enzymes actively break down the suture material into smaller components that can be metabolized and eliminated. Both hydrolysis and enzymatic degradation are gradual processes, ensuring stitches provide support for an appropriate duration.
Factors Affecting Dissolution Time
Dissolution time varies due to several factors. The material type is a primary factor; different polymers and natural substances dissolve at varying rates. Some materials absorb quicker, while others provide extended support. The suture’s thickness or size also impacts its timeline, with thicker stitches taking longer to break down.
The stitches’ location within the body plays a role, as areas with higher blood flow, increased moisture, or specific pH levels influence degradation rate. Individual patient factors, including metabolism, immune response, and infection, also affect absorption speed.
Typical Timelines for Dissolving Stitches
Dissolvable stitches typically dissolve within a few weeks to several months, depending on material and application. For example, catgut sutures usually dissolve within 10 to 21 days. Synthetic polyglactin 910 sutures often absorb within 56 to 70 days.
Polyglycolic acid (PGA) stitches commonly dissolve within 60 to 90 days, while polylactic acid (PLA) sutures may take 90 to 120 days. Polydioxanone (PDS) sutures are known for their slower absorption rate, often lasting between 180 to 210 days, or approximately six months. For specific applications like wisdom tooth removal, stitches may dissolve within weeks.
Caring for Your Dissolving Stitches
Proper wound care is essential while dissolvable stitches are present. Keeping the area clean and dry helps prevent complications and promotes healing. Follow specific instructions from a healthcare provider regarding wound cleaning, which may include gentle washing. Avoid activities that could strain or pull at the wound. As stitches dissolve, minor irritation or small pieces of suture material may appear, which is a normal part of the process.
However, certain signs warrant contacting a healthcare professional. These include increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around the wound, pus draining from the site, a fever, or if the wound reopens.