VETERINARY SUTURES

Absorbable sutures degrade in tissue through a process of hydrolysis, by which they progressively lose their tensile strength.

Degradation by hydrolysis causes minimal tissue reaction. This process takes place in two stages. In the first stage, tensile strength decreases gradually and in an almost linear fashion. The second stage usually overlaps with the first and is characterized by the loss of suture mass. During this phase, leukocytes act to clear the wound of cell debris and suture material remnants.

Therefore, the loss of tensile strength and absorption are different processes. For this reason, the loss of tensile strength is the most important factor to consider when selecting an absorbable suture.

There are different types of absorbable sutures with different tensile strength retention and absorption periods, which are selected depending on the tissues to be sutured.

Non-absorbable sutures are made of non-biodegradable material, meaning they cannot be digested by enzymes or hydrolyzed within tissues.

Ultimately, fibroblasts permanently encapsulate them, allowing them to maintain their maximum strength over time, unless the stitches are removed postoperatively (skin closure).

There are different types of non-absorbable sutures with varying levels of tensile strength, available as monofilament or multifilament, chosen based on the tissue to be sutured or the clinician's discretion.