What type of material is Vicryl suture made from?

Vicryl suture is made from polyglactin 910. This synthetic absorbable material is created by the copolymerization of glycolic acid and lactic acid, which provides a suitable combination of strength and absorbability for surgical uses. Due to its braided structure, Vicryl offers excellent handling characteristics and knot security, making it a preferred choice in various surgical procedures.

The absorbable nature of polyglactin 910 means that the suture will be broken down by the body over time, eliminating the need for removal, which is particularly beneficial in internal suturing and areas that may be difficult to access for suture removal later. This characteristic is essential for many surgical applications, especially in delicate tissues where absorbable materials minimize the risk of foreign body reactions.

Other materials, like polypropylene, silk, and polylactic acid, have their own surgical uses, but they either do not share the same absorbable properties or are utilized for different purposes, which is why they are not applicable in this case.