FAQ for PGCL Suture

PGCL Sutures are highly pliable monofilament sutures, that also absorb predictably. With the smooth monofilament surface structures, it handles and ties easily, and is virtually inert in tissue. Basically, PGCL sutures behave like PTFE sutures, but do not need to be removed! Below is an FAQ for PGCL Sutures. Do you see your question answered? Please feel free to open a new topic to ask a question.

Why is the 90 to 110 day resorption time of PGCL sutures beneficial? PGCL sutures will not resorb prematurely which ensures that your incision line and tissue flap remains closed long enough for proper healing and closure. PGCL sutures behave like non-resorbable PTFE without the need to remove the sutures.
What are the main advantages of PGCL sutures? PGCL is dissolved by the body’s own processes. No foreign material remains in the body No removal is necessary - Absorbable in approximately 4 weeks. Fully absorbed in 90 days. Smooth Surface Little tissue damage No bacterial accumulation and no plaque buildup No capillarity (volume of fluid absorbed along the suture line)
How are the Monoglyc sutures packaged? The Monoglyc™ PGCL sutures are available in packages of 24 units. We currently sell the 4-0 and 5-0 sizes.
What Sizes are available in the PGCL Sutures? We currently sell the 4.0, and 5.0 sizes in the 45cm length version with 3/8, 18mm reverse-cutting needle (C-6/FS-2 Needle Type).
How do PGCL sutures prevent bacterial wicking? The PGCL suture is a monofilament suture that prevents bacterial wicking, as opposed to a braided suture that allows for a perfect surface for bacteria to grow.
How is it that Monoglyc PGCL sutures are less atraumatic to the gums? The Monoglyc™ suture glides smoothly through the tissue because of the single strand monofilament construction aided by the super sharp needles.
How long does it take for Monoglyc PGCL sutures to resorb? It takes 90 to 110 days for the Monoglyc™ PGCL sutures to completely absorb and no longer be noticeable.
Why choose a PGCL Suture over a non-resorbable PTFE suture? For those who are used to PTFE sutures, sometimes if the suture is left in for a prolonged period, it tends to get buried, making it difficult to retrieve. On the other hand, PGCL Sutures will last quite some time because it is 100% resorbable and has added PCL polymer. You do not have to worry about having to remove the suture!
Can you please clarify the absorption and strength profile of the PGCL suture? The PGCL suture is fully-resorbed in about 90 days. This means that in 90 days the PGCL suture material is 100% absorbed by the body so that there is no trace of the suture material. However, while the suture takes 90 days to fully resorb, it maintains its strength for approximately 4 weeks. The 4-week time frame is for the strength of the suture material to be sufficient to keep the flap closed without tension before it disintegrates further. So for 4 weeks it provides strength to keep flap and incision line stable.