polyglactin

Polyglactin is a synthetic, absorbable suture material used in surgical closures. It is a copolymer of glycolide and L-lactide, commonly referred to as polyglactin 910, with a typical glycolide to lactide ratio of about 90:10. In the body, the polymer is hydrolyzed into glycolic and lactic acids and gradually absorbed over time.

Polyglactin sutures are usually braided multifilament structures. This offers good handling and knot security but can increase tissue drag and capillarity, which may be a consideration in contaminated fields. The suture is designed to retain substantial tensile strength for an initial period, after which strength declines as degradation proceeds. Absorption generally completes within 60 to 90 days, though exact timelines can vary with tissue conditions and suture formulation. Some products include coatings to reduce friction and improve handling, and there are rapid-absorbing or antimicrobial variants available in the market.

Clinical use and limitations: polyglactin sutures are widely employed for general soft tissue closure, including mucosal and intra-abdominal repairs, in general surgery, gynecology, and urology. They are not typically chosen for situations requiring prolonged or high-strength fixation, such as some cardiovascular or large-vessel anastomoses. The material is favored for balanced handling, predictable absorption, and low tissue reactivity, though the braided nature may be less ideal in contaminated wounds where monofilament sutures are preferred.

Safety and regulatory status: as a synthetic, biocompatible polymer, polyglactin sutures have a well-established safety profile with common adverse reactions being rare. Variants and coatings aim to further optimize performance and reduce tissue drag or bacterial colonization.