Several different kinds of absorbable materials are available for temporary mechanical support in tissue adaptation depending on the required time period. Due to their chemical properties and finish these materials are optimally tolerated by the body and are then easily broken down or eliminated. During the breakdown process the material remains in the tissues without being encapsulated and without causing tissue reactivity.
The objective is to select a material that loses its tensile strength as the various tissue structures regain their own functions as the wound heals. Essential for this is the
Absorption time = time in which the suture loses 50% of its tensile strength
(reference value based on clinically confirmed in-vitro investigations carried out to select suitable materials for respective indications).
The actual dissolution time of the suture material depends on:
- the type of material
- the blood supply to the tissue
- the structure of the tissue
- the degree of fluid accumulation on the suture material
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Tissue tolerability 14th postoperative day |
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Absorption time (ratio of suture tensile strength / wound healing) |
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Characteristic absorption curves of RESORBA materials |