What are the two main types of surgical sutures?

The two main types of surgical sutures are absorbable and non-absorbable. Absorbable sutures are designed to break down in the body over time, eliminating the need for removal after healing has taken place. They are composed of materials that are gradually hydrolyzed by the body's tissues, making them suitable for internal suturing where they will eventually dissolve and be absorbed. Non-absorbable sutures, on the other hand, are made from materials that do not degrade in the body and must be removed manually once healing is complete. They are commonly used in situations where long-term support is needed, such as in skin closures or in areas subject to significant tension.

While other classifications, such as monofilament versus multifilament and natural versus synthetic, provide further detail about suture materials, they do not encompass the primary distinction in terms of how the sutures behave in the body after placement. Therefore, understanding the basic classification of absorbable and non-absorbable sutures is fundamental for surgical practice, as it directly influences the choice of suturing techniques based on the healing requirements of the tissues involved.