Description
The Medtronic Polysorb braided absorbable suture is available from MedicalEx in the configurations listed below. The line pairs a Lactomer glycolide and lactide copolymer braid with an absorbable coating, so the strand keeps its strength through the critical healing window and then absorbs on a predictable schedule.
- Braided Lactomer 9-1 copolymer strand in violet or undyed
- About 80 percent tensile strength at two weeks and about 30 percent at three weeks
- Absorption complete in about 56 to 70 days
- USP sizes 2 through 4-0 in pre-cut and reel formats
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Main Description
Polysorb sutures are composed of Lactomer glycolide/lactide copolymer, a synthetic polyester built from glycolic and lactic acids. The braid is coated with a mixture of a caprolactone and glycolide copolymer and calcium stearoyl lactylate, a coating system that improves surface lubricity for smooth passage and secure knot run-down. Medtronic rates the strand at approximately 80 percent of original tensile strength two weeks after implantation and approximately 30 percent at three weeks. Absorption proceeds by hydrolysis and is essentially complete between 56 and 70 days, which places the line in the mid-term absorbable class. The line is indicated for soft tissue approximation and ligation, including ophthalmic procedures, and it is supplied sterile in pre-cut lengths and ligating reels.
Features and Benefits
- Coated braid – The caprolactone/glycolide and calcium stearoyl lactylate coating gives the braid a slick surface for easier tissue passage and knot seating.
- Strength over the healing window – Tensile retention of about 80 percent at two weeks supports wounds through the critical early healing period.
- Predictable absorption – Hydrolytic absorption completes in roughly 56 to 70 days, so support ends on a known schedule rather than by enzymatic variability.
- Non-needled formats – Pre-cut lengths and ligating reels let the team take strand lengths to match the case at hand, with no needle attached.
- Visibility options – Violet dye improves strand visibility in the wound, and undyed strands are available where a clear strand is preferred.
Product Specifications
Material and Structure
| Composition | Lactomer glycolide/lactide copolymer |
| Structure | Braided |
| Coating | Caprolactone/glycolide copolymer with calcium stearoyl lactylate |
| Colors | Violet, undyed |
Performance and Use
| Tensile Strength Retention | Approximately 80% at 2 weeks, approximately 30% at 3 weeks |
| Absorption Profile | Approximately 56 to 70 days by hydrolysis |
| USP Sizes | 2 through 8-0 |
| Indications | Soft tissue approximation and ligation, including ophthalmic surgery |
Packaging and Configurations
| Sterility | Sterile, single use |
| Formats | Pre-cut lengths and ligating reels |
| Box Quantities | 1, 2 or 3 dozen |
Product Line
| Brand | Medtronic |
| Product Family | Polysorb braided absorbable suture |
Distribution
| Availability | Continental US |
| Package Quantity | bx (per configuration as listed) |
Why Choose This Product
Facilities standardize on this line when they want one braided absorbable that covers most soft-tissue sets without stocking a second brand. The combination of a lubricious coating, documented tensile retention and a 56 to 70 day absorption window makes case-cart picking predictable for surgeons and supply staff alike.
- One line, most sets – A single braided absorbable family spans sizes 2 through 4-0 in pre-cut and reel formats, which trims the number of suture SKUs a facility must manage.
- Knots that seat and hold – The coating system is designed for secure knot run-down, so tied closures stay where the surgeon sets them.
- Known support window – Strength and absorption figures are published by the manufacturer, so the support period can be matched to the tissue being closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this suture support a wound?
The strand retains about 80 percent of its tensile strength at two weeks and about 30 percent at three weeks. Absorption is essentially complete in about 56 to 70 days, so it suits tissues that heal over a two to three week window.
Is the strand visible in tissue?
Most configurations are dyed violet to increase visibility during placement and inspection. Undyed configurations are also listed for surgeons who prefer a clear strand.
How should sutures be stored?
Store sutures in their original packaging in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and light. Use stock in expiry order and do not use any suture whose package is opened or damaged, since sterility cannot be assured.
What do the suture size numbers mean?
USP suture sizes run from fine to heavy: more zeros mean a finer strand, so 7-0 is finer than 5-0, which is finer than 3-0. Sizes then rise through 0, 1, 2 and heavier for large tissue work. The variant label states the exact size of each configuration.
Can a suture be resterilized or reused?
No. These are sterile single use devices, and an opened or expired suture must be discarded. Resterilization is not permitted and compromises both sterility and material performance.
