• Purpose & Use

  • Polyglactin sutures are synthetic, absorbable sutures commonly used in soft tissue approximation and ligation.

  • Frequently used in general surgery, gynecology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery.

  • Ideal for tissues that heal quickly, as the suture gradually loses strength and is absorbed by the body.

• Material & Properties

  • Made of polyglactin 910, a copolymer of glycolide and lactide.

  • Braided structure for good handling and knot security.

  • Absorbable: complete absorption occurs within 56–70 days, depending on tissue type and size.

  • Coated to reduce tissue drag and improve smooth passage through tissue.

• Sizes & Classification

  • Available in a wide range of sizes, from 6-0 (very fine, used for delicate tissues like the face and microsurgery) to 1 or 2 (thicker, used for fascia or heavy tissue repair).

  • Size selection depends on tissue type, location, and required tensile strength.

• Needles

  • Sutures are usually pre-attached to surgical needles.

  • Needle types include:

    • Taper point: for soft tissue, organs, and delicate tissues.

    • Reverse cutting or cutting needles: for skin or tough tissues.

  • Curved needles are common, straight needles may be used in minor procedures.

• Packaging & Sterility

  • Sutures are individually sterile-packed, ready for surgical use.

  • Available in single units or boxes containing multiple sutures of the same or mixed sizes.

Contents of a Standard Adult Skin Traction Kit

• Adhesive traction strip / band (adult size)

• Foam or padded stirrup for comfort and pressure distribution

• Traction cord / rope

• Spreader plate or metal bar

• Weight bag (usually fills with water or sand; weight not included)

• Crepe or elastic bandages for securing

• Instruction sheet

Indications / Uses

• Femur fractures (temporary stabilization)

• Hip injuries

• Lower limb muscle spasms

• Pre-operative traction

• Pain relief through limb alignment