Internal stitches, also known as absorbable sutures, function by holding tissues together inside the body until they heal, after which they are naturally broken down and absorbed by the body. Unlike traditional stitches that require manual removal, internal stitches are designed to dissolve over time.
Materials Used in Internal Stitches
Internal stitches are made from biocompatible materials that the body can safely break down. Common materials include:
- Synthetic Polymers: These are artificially created materials designed to degrade in the body. Examples include polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), and polydioxanone (PDO).
- Animal-derived Materials: Some internal stitches are made from purified collagen derived from animal tissues, such as the lining of animal intestines. This type of suture is often referred to as "catgut," although it doesn't actually contain cat intestines.
The Absorption Process
The body absorbs internal stitches through a process called hydrolysis or enzymatic degradation, depending on the material used:
- Hydrolysis: Synthetic polymer sutures are typically broken down through hydrolysis, where water molecules gradually break the bonds within the suture material.
- Enzymatic Degradation: Animal-derived sutures, like catgut, are broken down by enzymes in the body.
The time it takes for a suture to be fully absorbed varies depending on the material and the size of the suture, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Advantages of Internal Stitches
- No Removal Required: The primary advantage is that no follow-up appointment is needed for removal.
- Ideal for Internal Wounds: They are perfect for closing internal incisions and wounds where manual stitch removal would be difficult or impossible.
- Reduced Risk of Infection: Because they are absorbable, there is no need to worry about potential infection from leaving foreign material in the body long-term.
Disadvantages of Internal Stitches
- Reaction Risk: Although rare, the body may react to the suture material causing inflammation.
- Tensile Strength: May not be suitable for all situations where maximum long-term strength is required.
Example Uses of Internal Stitches
- Surgical Procedures: Used extensively in surgeries like appendectomies, hysterectomies, and bowel resections.
- Internal Tissue Repair: Repairing torn ligaments or muscles within the body.
- Wound Closure: Closing deep wounds internally beneath the skin surface.
