Polysorb™ Braided Absorbable Suture

Description

Polysorb™ braided sutures are composed of the Lactomer™ glycolide/lactide copolymer, a synthetic polyester derived from glycolic acid and lactic acid. Polysorb™ sutures are prepared by coating the suture with a mixture of caprolactone/glycolide copolymer and calcium stearoyl lactylate.

Indications

Polysorb™ sutures are indicated for soft tissue approximation or ligation and ophthalmic surgery, but not for cardiovascular or neural tissue.

Action

Polysorb™ sutures elicit a minimal acute inflammatory reaction in tissue, followed by gradual encapsulation of the suture by fibrous connective tissue. Progressive loss of tensile strength and eventual absorption of Polysorb™ sutures occur through hydrolysis, with the Lactomer™ glycolide/lactide copolymer breaking down into glycolic and lactic acids, which are subsequently absorbed and metabolized by the body.

Tensile Strength

Studies indicate that the average tensile strength of Polysorb™ sutures is approximately 140% of USP and E.P. minimum knot strength initially, approximately 80% after two weeks, and over 30% three weeks post-implantation.

Sterilization

Ethylene oxide.

Absorption

Absorption begins with a loss of tensile strength without appreciable loss of mass. Absorption of Polysorb™ sutures is essentially complete between the 56th and 70th day.

Packaging

Polysorb™ sutures are available in USP sizes ranging from 2 (5 Metric) to 8–0 (0.4 Metric). They are available either undyed (natural) or violet. The sutures are supplied sterile, in pre-cut lengths or on ligating reels, either non-needled or affixed to various needle types using permanent or removable needle attachment techniques. Please refer to the individual package IFUs for complete instructions, indications, contraindications, warnings, and precautions.