ABSTRACT
The characteristics of the ideal suture are: it is deal for the surgeon, ideal for the patient and ideal for the healthcare provider. They can be classified according to their characteristics as non-absorbable and absorbable sutures. Silk is a braided or twisted multifilament natural suture that is nonabsorbable, although it undergoes fibrous encapsulation in the body within 2–3 weeks. Its braided structure can act as a nidus for infection, and encourages the formation of suture sinuses and abscesses. Polypropylene (Prolene) is normally used for vascular anastomoses. Skin is usually closed with synthetic non-absorbable sutures of the mono-filament type, such as polyamide (nylon) or Prolene. Most modern needles are atraumatic swagged needles, with the suture material inserted into the base of the needle rather than through an eye. A surgeon's choice of needle depends on the suture type and the tissue on which it is to be used. Needles can be categorised according to their shape, tip and body.
