One of the most basic categories of sutures is absorbable or non-absorbable. Both are necessary for a well-stocked surgery. Absorbable sutures are great for many surgeries, especially deep wounds. On the other hand, non-absorbable sutures can be stronger, and they last longer in the body. Each has their strengths. Consider them both and you’ll see why both kinds of sutures are essential.

The perks of absorbable sutures

Absorbable sutures are often the more sought-after sutures. In the past, these sutures were made from the intestines of cows and sheep, despite going under the name “catgut”. Today, these sutures have been upgraded to synthetic materials in most cases. Synthetic sutures allow for more variation in size and type.

Absorbable sutures require less care than non-absorbable sutures. Once the stitches are in place, they can be left to heal without further interference. The suture is designed to break down, after a certain amount of time, inside the body. That way, the stitches never have to be removed. Once the body has healed the stitches harmlessly break down. The body cleans them up and you’re left with a neatly healed wound and no need for a further visit.

This is especially useful for deep wounds and cuts to internal organs, tendons, and muscle. No surgeon is going to want to go back into a wound to take out the stitches in someone’s intestine, for example. It’s best to leave that wound closed to heal. Absorbable sutures can be used to bind together every layer in a deep wound. If they only sutured the skin over a wound that split muscle and tendons, it would form a pocket where infection could gather. Plus, those muscles and tendons would take far longer to heal, if they even could heal entirely at all.

When to use non-absorbable sutures

Absorbable sutures are highly convenient, but they’re not perfect for every situation. There are times when non-absorbable sutures are better. The slower the wound is to heal, the better non-absorbable sutures are. For example, skin is one of the slowest parts of the body to heal. Absorbable sutures may break down before the wound is fully healed. That could allow the wound to tear open again.

Non-absorbable stitches are also available in mono or braided fibers. The braids provide strong sutures that are great at holding the sides of the wound together. However, they also provide nooks and crannies for bacteria to hide. Non-absorbable sutures must be used with care, and typically under the supervision of doctors. If the stitches need to come out, or the suture begins to harbor infection, the doctor can help. Deciding whether the strength of the suture is a suitable trade for the risks, depends on access to medical care and the professional opinion of the doctors.

Absorbable sutures are great for deep wounds. They’re also good for wounds that won’t require much supervision. Non-absorbable sutures are better for wounds that require long-term care. Slower healing wounds need strong, long-term sutures. Both are necessary to be prepared for a variety of wounds.