Dissolvable stitches are a common medical tool used to close wounds and surgical incisions, eliminating the need for their manual removal. Understanding their natural dissolution process and how to support your body’s healing is helpful.
Understanding Dissolvable Stitches
Dissolvable stitches are made from biodegradable materials, which can be either synthetic polymers or natural substances. Common synthetic materials include polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polyglactin 910 (Vicryl), and polydioxanone (PDS). Historically, natural materials like catgut, derived from animal intestines, were used and are still found in specific contexts.
The breakdown of these stitches occurs through two primary biological processes. Synthetic polymers typically dissolve through hydrolysis, a predictable and consistent process where water molecules in the body interact with the stitch material, gradually breaking it down into smaller, harmless components that the body absorbs and excretes. Natural materials like catgut are absorbed through enzymatic degradation, where the body’s enzymes attack the suture material. This enzymatic process can be less predictable than hydrolysis due to individual variations in enzyme levels and immune responses.
The general timeline for dissolution varies significantly depending on the material.
- Catgut stitches: 10 to 21 days
- Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl): 56 to 70 days
- Polyglycolic acid (PGA): 60 to 90 days
- Polylactic acid (PLA): 90 to 120 days
- Polydioxanone (PDS): 180 to 210 days, or even up to six months, for complete dissolution
These timelines reflect the period it takes for the stitches to lose their tensile strength and then be fully absorbed by the body.
Factors Influencing Dissolution Rate
The type of material used for the stitches is a primary determinant, as different polymers and natural fibers have inherent degradation rates. For example, “fast-absorbing” gut sutures might dissolve within 5 to 7 days, whereas synthetic materials like polydioxanone (PDS) can last 3 to 6 months.
The thickness or size of the stitch also plays a role; thicker sutures generally take longer to dissolve than finer ones. The location of the wound on the body significantly affects the dissolution speed. Stitches in areas with higher movement, increased moisture, or good blood supply, such as the mouth or joints, may dissolve faster due to constant stress, friction, or increased tissue metabolism. Conversely, stitches in less mobile areas or those with less circulation may last longer.
An individual’s metabolic rate and overall health can influence the healing process and, consequently, the dissolution rate of stitches. Conditions affecting healing times or immune system function, such as age, nutrition, and certain medical conditions like cancer, anemia, or malnutrition, can lead to variations in how quickly sutures break down. The presence of infection or inflammation at the wound site can also impact dissolution, potentially altering the normal breakdown process.
Supporting Your Body’s Natural Healing Process
Supporting your body’s natural healing process is the most effective way to ensure dissolvable stitches break down efficiently. Following post-operative care instructions provided by your healthcare professional is important. This typically involves keeping the wound clean and dry, especially during the initial 24 to 48 hours. After this period, gentle showering may be permitted, but soaking the wound in baths or swimming should be avoided until advised by a doctor, as prolonged moisture can soften stitches and increase infection risk.
Maintaining good nutrition and hydration is also beneficial for wound healing. The body requires adequate calories, protein, fluids, and specific vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and zinc to repair tissues and fight infection. Incorporating protein-rich foods, fruits, and vegetables supports tissue regeneration and immune function. Staying well-hydrated helps maintain skin elasticity and overall healing.
Avoiding strenuous activity that stresses the wound is important to prevent stitches from tearing or the wound from reopening prematurely. Protecting the wound from injury and avoiding direct scrubbing or harsh cleansers can help prevent irritation and promote a smooth healing process. It is important to note that there are no safe or recommended methods to force stitches to dissolve more quickly than their intended biological process. Attempting to manipulate them can disrupt healing and introduce complications.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is important to recognize signs that may indicate a complication with wound healing or stitch dissolution, warranting medical attention. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, persistent or worsening pain, or the presence of pus or an unpleasant smell. A fever or swollen glands can also signal an infection.
Other concerns that require professional evaluation include stitches coming out too early, the wound opening up, or the stitches not dissolving within the expected timeframe. While some variations in dissolution time are normal, if stitches remain visible significantly beyond the estimated period provided by your doctor, or if they cause irritation, it is advisable to seek medical advice. Prompt consultation ensures proper assessment and and intervention to prevent further complications.