What’s the Longest Dissolvable Stitch Last? A Complete Guide for Patients

Causes, Normal Healing Sensations & When to Worry

By: Dr. Sagar Rajkuwar
ENT Specialist, Nashik, Maharashtra

www.entspecialistinnashik.com

Table of contents-

1. Introduction
2. What kind of stitches are dissolvable (absorbable)?
3. So, What’s the Longest Dissolvable Stitch Last?
4. Comparison Table: How Long Different Dissolvable Stitches Last
5. Why would a surgeon opt for a dissolvable suture that lasts for a long time?
6. What Variables Influence the Longevity of Dissolvable Sutures?
7. Can you see long-lasting dissolving stitches?
8. Is it common for dissolving sutures to remain in place for many months?
9. Is it possible for dissolvable stitches to fail to dissolve?
10. Dissolvable vs Non-Dissolvable Stitches: Key Differences
11. FAQs: Longest Dissolvable Stitches
12. Key Takeaway
13. Expert Medical Disclaimer

1️⃣Introduction

Dissolvable stitches, sometimes referred to as absorbable sutures, are frequently employed in contemporary surgery to seal wounds without the necessity for removal. The query posed by patients is often very practical:

“The longest dissolvable stitch lasts for how long?”

Depending on the kind of suture material, its location in the body, and unique healing characteristics, the response varies. Some soluble sutures vanish in two weeks, but others may last for up to six months.

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2️⃣What kind of stitches are dissolvable (absorbable)?

Over time, soluble stitches are intended to disintegrate in the body. They are absorbed via: rather than being removed by a doctor.
Water-based chemical breakdown, often known as hydrolysis, is the process by which the majority of synthetic sutures are broken down.
Enzymatic digestion – natural sutures such catgut

They are frequently employed in:

• Muscles and inner tissues
• Operations for the mouth and teeth
• Methods for ENT surgery
• Operations in gynecology and obstetrics
• Operations performed on children

3️⃣So, What’s the Longest Dissolvable Stitch Last?

✅ Polydioxanone (PDS) sutures last the longest

Among all commonly used absorbable sutures, PDS (Polydioxanone) lasts the longest in the body.

⏳ How long does PDS last?

• Wound support: up to 6–8 weeks

• Complete absorption: 180–210 days (≈ 6–7 months) Suture Online+1

This makes PDS the longest-lasting dissolvable stitch routinely used in surgical practice.

4️⃣Comparison Table: How Long Different Dissolvable Stitches Last

5️⃣Why would a surgeon opt for a dissolvable suture that lasts for a long time?

When tissues require extended support, as in the following examples, long-lasting sutures such as PDS are chosen:

• Layers of deep muscle
• Closure of the abdominal wall
• Fixing a hernia
• Pediatric surgery for the chest and heart
• Tissues that heal slowly

The risk of wound separation is decreased since PDS holds its strength for a longer period of time compared to other absorbable sutures.

6️⃣What Variables Influence the Longevity of Dissolvable Sutures?

The absorption time can change, even with the same kind of suture, for reasons such as:

1. Where in the body it is

• dissolves more quickly inside the mouth
  Tissue that is dry melts less quickly

2. Blood flow

• Tissues with good vascularization break down sutures more quickly.

3. Inflammation or infection

Absorption is accelerated by infection.

4. Considerations for the patient

• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Bad food
• use of steroids

5. Thickness of the Sutures

Sutures that are thicker last longer.

7️⃣Can you see long-lasting dissolving stitches?

Internal PDS sutures are not visible.

Under the skin: It may feel like a solid string or lump for weeks or months.
Sometimes: As the body absorbs them, little suture ends may protrude.

Unless there is discomfort, redness, or discharge, this is generally innocuous.

8️⃣Is it common for dissolving sutures to remain in place for many months?

Yes. It can be perfectly acceptable to feel or view PDS sutures even three to four months after they were placed.

The Wound Professionals
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If, on the other hand, you see any of the following, speak with a physician:

• Growing discomfort
• Redness or edema
• Discharge of pus or odor
• Temperature

9️⃣Is it possible for dissolvable stitches to fail to dissolve?

Although it doesn’t occur often, it is possible.

Some potential explanations are:

• Inadequate blood flow
• reaction to foreign object
• Extrusion of sutures (body pushing it out)

In these situations, the exposed area may be trimmed or removed by a physician using a straightforward outpatient technique.

🔟Dissolvable vs Non-Dissolvable Stitches: Key Differences

1️⃣1️⃣FAQs: Longest Dissolvable Stitches

❓ What is the maximum time dissolvable stitches can last?

Up to 210 days (7 months) with PDS sutures The Wound Pros.

❓ Which dissolvable stitch is strongest?

PDS and Polyglyconate have the longest tensile strength retention.

❓ Can dissolvable stitches cause infection?

Rarely. Infection is usually due to wound contamination, not the stitch itself.

❓ Do dissolvable stitches leave scars?

Scarring depends more on:

• Surgical technique

• Skin tension

• Wound care

• Genetics

1️⃣2️⃣Key Takeaway

The longest dissolvable stitch is PDS (Polydioxanone), lasting up to 6–7 months inside the body.

Understanding the type of stitch used in your surgery can reduce anxiety and help you know what’s normal during healing.

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Expert Medical Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your surgeon or ENT specialist for personalized guidance regarding stitches and wound healing.