Do vets use dissolvable stitches?

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Yes, vets frequently use dissolvable stitches; these sutures are designed to break down naturally within the body, eliminating the need for a follow-up removal appointment. Their use depends on the specific procedure, tissue type, and veterinarian’s preference.

A Veterinary Staple: Dissolvable Sutures

The use of sutures, commonly known as stitches, is a fundamental part of veterinary surgery and wound closure. While different types exist, dissolvable stitches hold a prominent place in veterinary practice due to their convenience and suitability for many procedures. Do vets use dissolvable stitches? Absolutely. Understanding when and why they are chosen is crucial.

Benefits of Dissolvable Stitches in Veterinary Medicine

Dissolvable stitches offer several advantages for both the animal and the owner:

Reduced Stress: Eliminating the need for a second veterinary visit for stitch removal minimizes stress for the animal. This is particularly beneficial for nervous or fractious patients.
Lower Risk of Infection: Removing stitches can sometimes introduce bacteria into the healing wound. Dissolvable sutures reduce this risk by being absorbed by the body.
Suitable for Internal Closures: These sutures are essential for closing internal tissues and organs during surgery, where manual removal is impossible.
Convenience for Owners: Owners don’t have to worry about scheduling and attending a follow-up appointment, making the post-operative period easier.

The Dissolving Process: How It Works

Dissolvable sutures are made from materials that are broken down by the body’s natural processes, primarily hydrolysis (reaction with water) or enzymatic degradation. The speed at which they dissolve varies depending on the material used:

Synthetic Absorbable Sutures: These sutures are generally made from polymers and dissolve through hydrolysis. Examples include polyglycolic acid (PGA), polydioxanone (PDS), and polyglactin 910 (Vicryl). They offer predictable absorption rates and minimal tissue reaction.
Natural Absorbable Sutures: These are derived from biological sources, such as catgut (made from the submucosa of sheep or cattle intestines). Catgut dissolves relatively quickly through enzymatic degradation but can cause more tissue reaction than synthetic options, so its use is less common now.

The duration of the dissolving process can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the suture material and its gauge (thickness).

Factors Influencing Stitch Selection

While do vets use dissolvable stitches?, their use isn’t universal. Vets consider several factors when choosing between dissolvable and non-dissolvable options:

Location of the Wound: Internal wounds almost always require dissolvable stitches. External wounds might use either type, depending on the tissue and tension.
Tissue Type: Some tissues heal more slowly than others, requiring sutures that maintain their strength for a longer period.
Suture Strength: The suture must be strong enough to hold the tissue together during the initial healing phase.
Animal’s Condition: Certain medical conditions or medications can affect wound healing and suture absorption.
Veterinarian Preference: Vets often have preferences based on their experience and familiarity with different suture materials.

Common Scenarios for Dissolvable Stitches in Veterinary Practice

Veterinarians frequently employ dissolvable sutures in various procedures:

Spaying and Neutering: Internal sutures are typically used to close the abdominal muscles and tissues.
Tumor Removal: Internal and subcutaneous closure often involves dissolvable materials.
Intestinal Surgery: Closure of the intestinal tract requires dissolvable sutures to prevent leakage and promote healing.
Bladder Surgery: Similar to intestinal surgery, the bladder requires a secure and absorbable closure.
Dental Extractions: Dissolvable sutures can help close the gum tissue after tooth extraction.

Potential Complications

While generally safe, dissolvable stitches can sometimes lead to complications:

Suture Reaction: Some animals may experience an inflammatory reaction to the suture material, causing redness, swelling, or discharge.
Premature Dissolution: If the sutures dissolve too quickly, the wound may open before it has fully healed.
Suture Granuloma: Rarely, a granuloma (a mass of immune cells) can form around the suture material.
Infection: Although less likely than with stitch removal, infection can still occur if bacteria enter the wound.

Post-Operative Care

Following surgery with dissolvable stitches, proper aftercare is crucial:

Monitor the Wound: Check the incision site daily for signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or pain.
Prevent Licking: Prevent the animal from licking or chewing at the wound, as this can introduce bacteria and disrupt healing. An Elizabethan collar (cone) is often necessary.
Administer Medications: Follow the veterinarian’s instructions for administering any prescribed medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers.
Contact Your Vet: If you notice any signs of complications, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Table: Comparison of Common Dissolvable Suture Materials

Suture Material	Material Type	Absorption Mechanism	Absorption Time	Strength Retention	Tissue Reaction	Common Uses
————————	———————	———————–	———————	——————–	—————–	———————————-
Polyglycolic Acid (PGA)	Synthetic Absorbable	Hydrolysis	60-90 days	Moderate	Minimal	Internal tissues, skin closure
Polydioxanone (PDS)	Synthetic Absorbable	Hydrolysis	180-210 days	High	Minimal	Fascia, ligaments, tendons
Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl)	Synthetic Absorbable	Hydrolysis	56-70 days	Moderate	Minimal	Internal tissues, skin closure
Catgut	Natural Absorbable	Enzymatic Degradation	10-21 days	Low	Moderate to High	Historically used, less common now

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will I see the dissolvable stitches fall out?

Generally, no. Dissolvable stitches are designed to be absorbed by the body, not expelled. You might occasionally see a small piece of suture material come to the surface, but this is rare. The dissolving process happens internally.

How long does it take for dissolvable stitches to disappear completely?

The time it takes for dissolvable stitches to fully dissolve varies depending on the material used. It can range from a few weeks to several months. Your veterinarian can provide a more precise estimate based on the type of suture used during your pet’s procedure.

What happens if my pet licks the incision site with dissolvable stitches?

Excessive licking can introduce bacteria into the wound, increasing the risk of infection and potentially disrupting the healing process. An Elizabethan collar is typically used to prevent licking. Contact your veterinarian if you notice excessive licking or any signs of infection.

Can dissolvable stitches cause an allergic reaction?

While rare, an allergic reaction to suture material is possible. Signs of an allergic reaction can include excessive redness, swelling, itching, or hives around the incision site. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction.

What if the incision opens up after surgery with dissolvable stitches?

If the incision opens, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. This could be a sign of infection, premature suture dissolution, or excessive tension on the wound. Your vet will assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

Are dissolvable stitches stronger than regular stitches?

The strength of a suture depends on the material used and its gauge (thickness), not whether it’s dissolvable or non-dissolvable. Some dissolvable suture materials are very strong and suitable for high-tension areas.

Can I bathe my pet after surgery with dissolvable stitches?

Avoid bathing your pet until the incision is fully healed, or as directed by your veterinarian. Getting the incision wet can increase the risk of infection. Spot cleaning around the area is usually permissible, but keep the incision itself dry.

Why didn’t my vet use dissolvable stitches?

Not all situations are suitable for dissolvable stitches. Your vet might have chosen non-dissolvable stitches because of the location of the wound, the tissue type, the desired strength of the closure, or their personal preference.

Are dissolvable stitches more expensive than regular stitches?

The cost of sutures can vary depending on the material and brand. However, the overall cost of using dissolvable stitches may be comparable to or even lower than non-dissolvable stitches when considering the cost of a follow-up appointment for removal.

Will I need to give my pet pain medication after surgery with dissolvable stitches?

Your veterinarian will typically prescribe pain medication to manage discomfort after surgery. Follow their instructions carefully regarding dosage and administration. Pain management is important for promoting healing and keeping your pet comfortable.

How can I tell if the dissolvable stitches are dissolving properly?

You won’t be able to see the stitches dissolving internally. Monitor the incision site for signs of proper healing: minimal redness, swelling, and discharge. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Is it normal to feel a lump under the skin where the dissolvable stitches are?

A slight lump or thickening under the skin is sometimes normal as the dissolvable sutures are absorbed and the tissues heal. However, if the lump is large, painful, or accompanied by redness or discharge, contact your veterinarian. It could indicate a suture reaction or infection.