Comparison of a polyglycolic-polylactic acid suture to black silk and plain catgut in human oral tissues

A polylactic-polyglycolic acid synthetic absorbable suture material (Vicryl, Polyglactin 910) was compared with black silk and plain catgut in human oral tissues. Inflammation was graded clinically and histologically after seven days. Handling characteristics, including suture retention, were evaluated. Vicryl and black silk sutures produced comparable inflammation after seven days. Plain catgut sutures were usually absorbed before seven days, but when retained generally produced a more severe reaction. The polylactic-polyglycolic acid suture is braided and dyed, and has handling characteristics similar to those of black silk. Although they are absorbable, Vicryl sutures may be retained longer than desired and probably should be used like silk when exposed to the oral cavity.