Description
SUTURE VICRYL is a versatile, absorbable synthetic suture designed for effective soft tissue approximation and ligation. Manufactured by Ethicon, a Johnson & Johnson company, it is composed of Polyglactin 910, a copolymer of glycolide and L-lactide, providing reliable performance in various surgical applications.
Material and Structure
- Braided Multifilament: The suture's braided structure enhances its handling characteristics and knot security.
- Coating: It is coated with Polyglactin 370 and calcium stearate to reduce tissue drag, available in both dyed and undyed forms.
Absorption and Tensile Strength
- Absorption Timeline: SUTURE VICRYL is absorbed by the body through hydrolysis, with complete absorption typically occurring between 56 to 70 days.
- Tensile Strength Retention: Retains approximately 75% of its tensile strength at two weeks, 50% at three weeks, and 25% at four weeks, aligning with the healing needs of rapidly healing tissues.
Applications
Ideal for use in:
- General surgery
- Gynecological procedures
- Ophthalmic and oral surgeries
- Cosmetic and plastic surgeries
- Dental surgery
It is particularly suitable for tissues such as the stomach, colon, and bladder, where rapid healing is expected.
Performance Features
- Minimal Tissue Reactivity: Offers reduced inflammatory response compared to natural absorbable sutures.
- Good Knot Security: Ensures reliable wound closure during the critical initial healing period.
Special Variants
An antibacterial variant, Coated VICRYL™ PLUS, is available, containing triclosan to inhibit bacterial colonization, providing additional protection against infections from common bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA.
Contraindications
Not recommended for:
- Long-term tissue support needs
- Use in cardiovascular, ophthalmic, or neurological tissues
- Patients with known allergies to triclosan (for the antibacterial variant)
Handling and Storage
- Sterility: Each suture is sterilized with ethylene oxide gas and intended for single use only.
- Storage Conditions: Store at or below 25°C and ensure packages are intact before use.
Regulatory Compliance
SUTURE VICRYL complies with FDA regulations and meets USP and European Pharmacopoeia standards, ensuring high-quality performance in surgical settings. Its design and material properties make it a trusted choice for surgeons seeking reliable absorbable sutures for effective wound management.