Description

Monocryl® (Poliglecaprone 25) is a versatile, absorbable monofilament suture designed for a wide range of surgical applications. Its synthetic composition, primarily a copolymer of glycolide and ε-caprolactone, ensures reliable performance with minimal tissue reactivity, making it an ideal choice for procedures where minimal inflammatory response is crucial.

Key Features

• Absorption Profile: Monocryl® is absorbed by the body through hydrolytic cleavage, with complete absorption typically occurring within 90 to 120 days. This predictable absorption profile eliminates the need for suture removal, providing convenience in surgical settings.

• Tensile Strength: The suture retains 50–60% of its tensile strength at seven days, losing 70–80% within one to two weeks. This characteristic makes it suitable for tissues that do not require prolonged support, such as soft tissue approximation and ligation in cosmetically sensitive areas.

• Degradation Behavior: The degradation rate is influenced by environmental pH, with more homogeneous degradation in neutral conditions. This behavior ensures consistent performance across different surgical environments.

Mechanical Properties

Monocryl® offers high initial breaking strength, superior to many other absorbable sutures like chronic gut, Vicryl, and PDS. Its excellent handling and knot security provide surgeons with confidence during delicate procedures. As the suture degrades, its mechanical properties, such as Young’s modulus and ultimate tensile strength, diminish, particularly in alkaline environments.

Biocompatibility

The suture's monofilament structure allows it to pass smoothly through tissue, reducing the risk of infection compared to multifilament sutures. Its biocompatibility is further enhanced by causing minimal tissue reaction, making it suitable for use in areas where suture removal is challenging or undesirable.

Applications

Monocryl® is commonly used for deep dermis closure and running subcuticular sutures. It is not recommended for tissues requiring extended tensile strength support. The suture’s rapid absorption and reduced tissue reactivity make it a preferred choice in surgeries where aesthetic outcomes are important.

Handling Instructions

Surgeons benefit from Monocryl®'s excellent handling characteristics, with no need for removal as the suture is naturally resorbed by the body. This feature simplifies postoperative care and enhances patient comfort.

In summary, Monocryl® provides a reliable, absorbable suturing solution with excellent handling, predictable absorption, and minimal tissue reactivity, tailored for a variety of surgical needs.