Feature |
Monofilament Sutures |
Multifilament Sutures |
Structure |
Single, smooth strand |
Multiple strands twisted or braided together |
Handling |
Slightly stiff, harder to handle |
Soft, easy to handle and tie |
Tissue Reaction |
Less tissue reaction |
More tissue reaction |
Tissue Drag |
Less friction, smooth passage |
More friction, may cause tissue trauma |
Tissue Reaction |
Less inflammatory response |
More tissue reaction due to multiple fibers |
Knot Security |
Requires more knots to stay secure |
Better knot security with fewer knots |
Infection Risk |
Lower (less space for bacteria) |
Higher (bacteria can get trapped in gaps) |
Capillarity (Fluid Absorption) |
Low (resists bacterial colonization) |
High (may wick bacteria) |
Examples |
• Nylon • Polypropylene (Prolene) • Polydioxanone (PDS) |
• Silk • Polyglactin (Vicryl) • Polyester |
Uses |
Skin closure, blood vessels, delicate tissues |
Internal sutures, ligatures, general surgery |