Barbed suture

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Barbed suture is a type of suture that has barbs on it to hold the tissue together. It is used in various types of surgery and is known for its ability to distribute tension evenly across the wound.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of barbed suture was first introduced in the early 1900s. However, it was not until the late 20th century that the technology was refined and became widely used in surgical procedures.

Design[edit | edit source]

The design of a barbed suture involves a series of barbs that are cut into the suture material. These barbs are angled in such a way that they can grip the tissue and hold it together. This eliminates the need for knots, which can be a source of discomfort and complications.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Barbed sutures are used in a variety of surgical procedures, including plastic surgery, orthopedic surgery, and gynecological surgery. They are particularly useful in procedures where the tension needs to be distributed evenly across the wound, such as in a facelift or abdominoplasty.

Advantages[edit | edit source]

The main advantage of barbed sutures is that they eliminate the need for knots. This can reduce the time it takes to close a wound and can also reduce the risk of complications associated with knots. Additionally, because the tension is distributed evenly across the wound, the healing process can be more uniform and result in a better cosmetic outcome.

Disadvantages[edit | edit source]

Despite their advantages, barbed sutures are not suitable for all types of wounds. They can cause tissue damage if not used correctly, and they may not be suitable for use in areas of high tension. Additionally, they can be more expensive than traditional sutures.

See also[edit | edit source]

Barbed suture Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD