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The Many Types Of Poly Sutures

Poly sutures of all types offer some definite advantages over other types of sutures and, because of their options; they are some of the most popular sutures used in most types of procedures today. Poly sutures are made of a variety of products but are all synthetics. They can be either absorbable or nonabsorbable depending on the materials used in their development. The absorbables include those produced with polyglycolic acid, polydioxanone or with polylactic acid. The nonabsorbables are produced by using polypropylene, polyester, nylon or a blend of the nonabsorbable materials. 

Poly sutures can be monofilaments or they may be braided. Monofilaments are ideal for being very uniform in diameter, highly flexible and allow the option to tie very flat and secure knots. In addition these materials have no reduction in tensile strength in the body, ensuring that wounds and surgical sites stay uniformly in place even over long periods of time. The monofilament options can be used in a wide variety of medical procedure and are an ideal consideration for neurologists and surgeons, cardiovascular surgeons and ophthalmologists. Most companies offer these poly sutures in two color options, clear and blue. Blue color is typically used if the stitches will be removed since they are very easy to distinguish from tissue. Clear poly is ideal for stitches that will remain in place, becoming very difficult to see after the healing has occurred.

Braided poly sutures can be used for the same types of procedures as the monofilament options and it is also a good choice for general wound and incision closure. Braided poly is often used in areas of the body where there is additional movement or excessive movement since the braided suture has very high tensile strength. The structure of the suture itself helps to hold knots secure and in place, making this the suture of choice with prosthetic implants.

Braided poly sutures can be coated or uncoated and the choice between these two options typically depends on the type of surgical procedure. The coated suture is treated with silicone and will move more easily through tissue, creating less stress on the wound edges. It is also easier to run down knots with the coated variety, which can be a major consideration on larger incision sites. As with all polyester types of sutures this is nonabsorbable and can remain indefinitely in the body providing the same amount of support for the wound area. Most braided polyester sutures come in a color, typically green, along with a white color option.

Blended poly sutures are specifically selected to increase strength and use of a particular type of suture. They are stronger than stainless steel, designed to be more durable than pure polyester but still have all the benefits of a nonabsorbable suture. These can be used for any type of procedure from soft tissue wounds to major surgical ligation.

Like all sutures poly products can be purchases needled or on rolls. The needled options match the suture diameter to the needle size, with the larger needled sizes having greater suture diameter choices. The sizing available ranges from 8-0 through to 5, giving options for the smallest, finest surgical procedure to the larger cardiovascular and orthopedic surgeries.