Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 20 TSC 477 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Absorbable and Nonabsorbable
The idea
Suture is classed as absorbable, broken down by the body over time, or nonabsorbable, which stays or is removed.
In practice
Learn the distinction in order. First, absorbable suture is defined as suture that loses most of its tensile strength within about two months, and the body then breaks it down. Second, examples of absorbable materials include plain gut, chromic gut, polyglactin, polyglycolic acid and polydioxanone. Third, nonabsorbable suture keeps its strength far longer; examples include nylon, polypropylene, polyester, silk and steel. Fourth, nonabsorbable skin sutures are often removed after healing, while buried nonabsorbable sutures may stay permanently. Fifth, the choice depends on the tissue and on how long it needs support.
Where people slip
Absorbable does not mean weak. It means temporary, and the surgeon chooses it where temporary support is all the tissue needs.
Your place on the trail
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