Dissolvable stitches are used to close wounds and surgical incisions. These sutures hold tissue together during initial healing, promoting proper alignment and recovery. They naturally break down within the body over time, eliminating the need for manual removal.
Understanding Dissolvable Stitches
Dissolvable stitches, also known as absorbable sutures, are made from materials the body can break down and absorb. Synthetic polymers like polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglactin 910 (Vicryl), and polydioxanone (PDS) are common. Natural materials such as purified catgut, derived from animal intestines, are also used.
For synthetic stitches, dissolution primarily occurs through hydrolysis, where water molecules break down chemical bonds. This breaks down the polymer into smaller components the body can metabolize and eliminate. Natural stitches, like catgut, are absorbed through enzymatic degradation, as the body’s enzymes break down the protein.
Factors Influencing Natural Dissolution
Several factors influence how quickly dissolvable stitches break down. Suture material type plays a role, with different dissolution rates. For example, catgut stitches may dissolve within 10 to 21 days, while polyglycolic acid (PGA) can take 60 to 90 days, and polydioxanone (PDS) can last 180 to 210 days.
Wound location also affects dissolution speed; areas with more movement or moisture, like the mouth or joints, may dissolve stitches faster due to increased exposure to bodily fluids and friction. Individual body responses, including overall health, immune function, and metabolism, also influence the healing process and stitch dissolution rate. Chronic conditions like diabetes or immune system disorders can slow down tissue repair and stitch dissolution.
Safe Wound Care and When to Seek Medical Advice
Do not attempt to manually dissolve or remove stitches, as this can lead to complications like infection, delayed healing, or wound reopening. Allow the natural dissolution process to occur. Proper wound care involves keeping the area clean and dry, and following all healthcare provider instructions.
After 24 to 48 hours, showering is often permitted, but avoid submerging the wound in baths or swimming until cleared by a doctor. Gently pat the area dry after washing and avoid scrubbing. Contact a healthcare professional if you notice signs of infection: increased redness, swelling, warmth, worsening pain, abnormal discharge (pus), or a fever. Also, seek medical advice if stitches are not dissolving after the expected timeframe, if the wound reopens, or if you experience new or worsening symptoms.