Vicryl

Vicryl (polyglactin 910) is a synthetic absorbable suture material, commonly used in surgical procedures. It is produced by Ethicon Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. Vicryl sutures are made from a copolymer of glycolic and lactic acid.

History

Vicryl was first introduced in the 1970s as an alternative to catgut sutures, which were commonly used at the time. The development of Vicryl marked a significant advancement in the field of surgery, as it provided a suture material that was both strong and absorbable.

Properties

Vicryl sutures are known for their high tensile strength and secure knotting properties. They are absorbed by hydrolysis within approximately 56 to 70 days, and cause minimal tissue reaction. This makes them ideal for use in procedures where the suture material needs to be absorbed by the body over time.

Uses

Vicryl sutures are used in a wide range of surgical procedures, including general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedic surgery, and ophthalmic surgery. They are particularly useful in procedures where the presence of suture material could interfere with healing, such as in the closure of internal soft tissues.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The main advantage of Vicryl sutures is their absorbability, which eliminates the need for suture removal and reduces the risk of suture granulomas. However, they are not suitable for use in all types of surgery. For example, they are not recommended for use in cardiovascular or neurological procedures, due to the risk of suture dehiscence.

See Also

• Suture (medicine)
• Surgical suture
• Absorbable suture