How Long Does It Take for Surgical Sutures to Dissolve?

How long does it take for surgical sutures to be absorbed?

Two years ago, I underwent laparoscopic surgery to remove my gallbladder due to gallstones.
The incision at my navel was closed with absorbable sutures, but after two years, the sutures are still present.
Occasionally, when I accidentally tug on the suture ends, there is a small amount of bleeding, which can be cleaned with a cotton swab.
The area appears red and has an unpleasant odor, but there is no pus or fever.
I would like to know if I should return to the hospital for the doctor to address this issue.
Is the slow absorption of the sutures related to my body type?

Yun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/29

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

The "meat line" refers to absorbable sutures, which are designed to be absorbed in the subcutaneous tissue (the "meat").
Once exposed to the surface, they will not be absorbed.
However, after two years, the internal portion should have loosened and disintegrated, so it should be possible to remove it using small forceps.
This will allow the wound to heal gradually.
If you are unable to manage this yourself, you can seek assistance from a surgeon.

Reply Date: 2017/05/29

More Info

When it comes to surgical sutures, particularly those made from absorbable materials like the "meat thread" (which is likely a type of absorbable suture), the time it takes for them to dissolve can vary significantly based on several factors. Typically, absorbable sutures are designed to break down and be absorbed by the body over a period of weeks to months. However, the exact duration can depend on the type of suture material used, the location of the suture, and individual patient factors such as metabolism and tissue healing response.

In your case, it has been two years since your laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and you are still noticing remnants of the suture at your umbilical incision site. This is unusual, as most absorbable sutures should have dissolved well within a year. The presence of the suture material, along with the symptoms you describe—occasional bleeding when tugging on the suture, redness, and an unpleasant odor—suggests that there may be an issue that requires medical attention.

Here are some points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Suture Type and Absorption: Different types of absorbable sutures have different absorption rates. For instance, polyglycolic acid sutures typically dissolve within 60 to 90 days, while others may take longer. If the suture material used in your surgery was intended to dissolve over a shorter period, its persistence could indicate that it is not absorbing properly.

2. Individual Healing Factors: Your body's healing response can be influenced by various factors, including your overall health, nutritional status, and any underlying medical conditions. Some individuals may experience slower absorption rates due to these factors.

3. Signs of Infection: While you mentioned that there is no pus or fever, the redness and odor are concerning. These could indicate a localized infection or irritation at the site of the suture. It is essential to monitor for any changes, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.

4. Medical Evaluation: Given that it has been two years since your surgery and you are still experiencing issues with the suture, it is advisable to return to your healthcare provider for an evaluation. They can assess the site, determine whether the suture needs to be removed, and check for any signs of infection or other complications.

5. Potential for Complications: If the suture material is not absorbed as expected, it could lead to complications such as chronic inflammation or the formation of a granuloma (a localized inflammatory response). These conditions can cause discomfort and may require treatment.

In conclusion, while absorbable sutures are designed to dissolve over time, the persistence of your suture material for two years is atypical and warrants further investigation. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your surgeon or a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and determine the best course of action. They may need to remove the remaining suture material and address any underlying issues to ensure proper healing and prevent further complications.

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