Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Which type of suture is most inert in tissue?

1. Wire

2. Silk

3. Absorbable suture

4. Polypropylene

The correct answer is: Wire

The most inert type of suture in tissue is polypropylene. This synthetic non-absorbable suture material is known for its excellent biocompatibility and low tissue reactivity, making it highly suitable for various surgical applications, especially in situations where long-term tissue support is necessary. Polypropylene does not stimulate inflammation or cause significant tissue reaction, and it maintains its tensile strength over an extended period. This property allows it to be used effectively in delicate tissues where minimal tissue disruption is preferred. Additionally, polypropylene has a smooth surface, which reduces friction and minimizes dragging through tissues. In contrast, while wire can also be considered inert, polypropylene is more commonly associated with lower tissue reactivity in clinical practice. Silk, though historically used, elicits a more significant inflammatory response compared to polypropylene. Absorbable sutures have inherent properties that lead to eventual degradation and may also provoke a variable tissue response during their degradation process. Therefore, when considering the relative inertness to tissue response, polypropylene stands out as the most favorable choice.