Which statement about absorbable sutures, such as catgut, is true?

Which statement about absorbable sutures, such as catgut, is true?

• A. They are always stronger than non-absorbable sutures.
• B. They may cause inflammation.
• C. They are never more expensive.
• D. They never absorb quickly.

Answer: (B)

Absorbable sutures are designed to lose their strength and be broken down by the body over time as healing occurs. Because they degrade, the body can react to the material and its degradation products, which can lead to inflammation in some cases. Catgut, being a natural material, often has more variability in how quickly it is absorbed and can provoke a stronger inflammatory response than many modern synthetic absorbables. That possibility of tissue reaction is why this statement is true. It’s not accurate to say absorbable sutures are always stronger than non-absorbables, and cost and absorption rates can vary widely depending on the specific suture material.

Absorbable sutures are designed to lose their strength and be broken down by the body over time as healing occurs. Because they degrade, the body can react to the material and its degradation products, which can lead to inflammation in some cases. Catgut, being a natural material, often has more variability in how quickly it is absorbed and can provoke a stronger inflammatory response than many modern synthetic absorbables. That possibility of tissue reaction is why this statement is true. It’s not accurate to say absorbable sutures are always stronger than non-absorbables, and cost and absorption rates can vary widely depending on the specific suture material.