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Category: Medical Diet & nutrition

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25June 2020

Surgical Sutures: Stitching Up a Safer Recovery

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a common complication following surgical procedures. SSIs increase morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Infection prevention is, therefore, a critical concern for surgeons and healthcare providers. One of the most effective strategies to reduce the risk of SSIs is the use of polyglycolic acid sutures.

Surgical Sutures

Surgical sutures are medical devices used to close wounds following surgical procedures. They come in different sizes, shapes, and materials, and their choice depends on the type and location of the wound, as well as the patient’s condition. Sutures can be classified into absorbable and non-absorbable types. Absorbable sutures are made from materials that can be absorbed by the body over time, while non-absorbable sutures are made from materials that the body cannot absorb.

The Role Of Sutures In Reducing SSIs

Sutures play a crucial role in reducing SSIs. They help to close the wound, promote healing, and prevent the entry of microorganisms that cause infections. The use of sutures ensures that the wound edges are in close proximity, which promotes healing by secondary intention. The suture material used also influences the risk of SSIs. For instance, absorbable sutures are associated with a lower risk of SSIs than non-absorbable sutures, as they are less likely to provide a site for bacterial growth.

Types Of Sutures And Their Effect On SSIs

The choice of suture material is critical in preventing SSIs. Several factors influence the choice of suture material, including the type and location of the wound, the patient’s condition, and the surgeon’s preference. The following are some of the most commonly used suture materials and their effect on SSIs.

 

Absorbable Sutures: Absorbable sutures are made from materials that are absorbed by the body over time. The body breaks down these materials, and they are eliminated through natural body processes. Absorbable sutures are commonly used for internal wounds or those that are difficult to access. They are associated with a lower risk of SSIs, as they do not provide a site for bacterial growth.

 

Non-Absorbable Sutures: Non-absorbable sutures are made from materials that the body cannot absorb. They are commonly used for external wounds or those that are easily accessible. Non-absorbable sutures are associated with a higher risk of SSIs, as they can provide a site for bacterial growth.

 

Monofilament Sutures: Monofilament sutures are made from a single strand of material. They are less likely to harbor bacteria and, therefore, associated with a lower risk of SSIs. Monofilament sutures are commonly used for delicate tissues or those that require minimal tissue reaction.

 

Multifilament Sutures: Multifilament sutures are made from multiple strands of material. They are associated with a higher risk of SSIs, as they can harbour bacteria in the spaces between the strands. Multifilament sutures are commonly used for tissues that require a stronger suture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of polyglycolic acid suture vicryl plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of SSIs. Sutures help to close wounds, promote healing, and prevent the entry of microorganisms that cause infections. The choice of suture material is critical in preventing SSIs, and factors such as the type and location of the wound, the patient’s condition, and the surgeon’s preference influence the choice of suture material.

25June 2020

Polyglycolic Acid Sutures

Polyglycolic acid (PGA) sutures are a type of synthetic absorbable suture that are commonly used in medical procedures. PGA sutures are made from a biodegradable polymer that breaks down over time and is absorbed by the body. They are widely used for wound closure and tissue approximation, and are often preferred over other types of sutures due to their strength and biodegradability. In this article, we will provide an overview of PGA sutures, their properties, uses, and other important information.

Properties Of PGA Sutures

PGA sutures are made from a synthetic polymer that is composed of repeating units of glycolic acid. They are characterized by their strength, which is greater than that of many other types of synthetic absorbable sutures, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polydioxanone (PDS). This strength allows PGA sutures to maintain tissue apposition for longer periods of time, which can aid in wound healing.

 

PGA sutures also have a predictable degradation rate. The degradation process of PGA sutures is hydrolysis, which is the breakdown of the polymer by water molecules. This process typically takes between 60 and 90 days, depending on the size of the suture and the location in which it is placed. The degradation of PGA sutures results in the formation of lactic and glycolic acids, which are metabolized by the body and excreted as carbon dioxide and water.

Uses Of PGA Sutures

PGA sutures are widely used in a variety of surgical procedures, including general surgery, orthopaedics, gynaecology, urology, and cardiovascular surgery. They are particularly useful in procedures where long-term wound support is required, such as in abdominal or thoracic surgeries. PGA sutures are also commonly used in ophthalmic surgery, as they are well tolerated by the delicate tissues of the eye.

 

PGA sutures are often used in conjunction with other types of sutures, such as non-absorbable sutures or monofilament sutures, depending on the specific needs of the patient and the surgical procedure. They are typically used for wound closure, tissue approximation, and ligation of blood vessels.

Other Important Information

PGA sutures are available in a variety of sizes and lengths, ranging from 4-0 to 2-0 in diameter. They are also available in a variety of needle types, including round bodied, taper point, and cutting needles. The specific needle type used will depend on the surgical procedure being performed and the preference of the surgeon.

 

Like all types of sutures, PGA sutures carry a risk of infection and other complications. It is important to use proper surgical technique and sterile conditions when placing PGA sutures to minimize this risk. It is also important to monitor the healing of the wound and to remove any sutures that have not been absorbed by the body after the appropriate amount of time has passed.

 

In conclusion, polyglycolic acid surgical sutures are a widely used type of synthetic absorbable sutures that are characterized by their strength and predictable degradation rate. They are commonly used in a variety of surgical procedures and are particularly useful in procedures where long-term wound support is required. As with all types of sutures, proper surgical technique and sterile conditions must be maintained to minimize the risk of infection and other complications.