[Experimental and clinical studies on the use of a new suture material: polyglycolic acid]

Experimental and clinical investigation of polyglycolic acid, a new synthetic suture material, is reported. Experimental work was done on single-layer intestinal sutures, while clinical employment of the material was extended to various general surgery operations. There were few signs of inflammation at the site of implant, indicating that the new material has a greater degree of inertness than chronic catgut, restulting in optimal tolerance on the part of the body.