What should you know about different types of surgical sutures?

Absorbable sutures gradually lose strength and are broken down by the body, so they are useful where later removal would be difficult or unnecessary. Non-absorbable sutures remain until removed or, in some operations, are left as longer-term support. A suture can also be monofilament, with one smooth strand, or braided, with several strands. The structure affects handling, flexibility and how the material interacts with the wound.

The clinician chooses a suture according to tissue layer, wound tension, movement, contamination risk and the expected healing process. The visible thread is only part of the repair; deeper layers may have separate sutures.

Keep the wound and dressing as directed, wash your hands before touching the area, and avoid catching the thread on clothing or scratching it. Do not cut or pull a suture yourself. Attend the arranged review so healing can be checked and removable material taken out at the appropriate time.

Ask before applying ointment, soaking the wound or returning to strenuous activity. Protecting the repair from tension can help the edges remain together while new tissue forms.

Get medical advice if the wound becomes increasingly painful, hot, swollen or red, or if it leaks fluid or opens. Prompt assessment is needed for fever, spreading redness, heavy bleeding, new numbness, or reduced movement near the wound. A loose or broken stitch should be assessed rather than repaired at home.

Ask what material and structure were used, whether the sutures dissolve, how long the repair needs protection, when review is due, and which signs suggest infection or wound separation.