In Short: Vicryl surgical suture is an absorbable, synthetic, braided suture widely used for wound closure due to its reliability, handling, and versatility. Choosing the right size, understanding its absorbability, and comparing available suppliers are key to effective clinical use and procurement.
What is Vicryl Surgical Suture?
Vicryl surgical suture is the brand name for a type of polyglactin 910 suture, a synthetic, absorbable, and braided suture used for tissue approximation and ligation. Developed for use in a wide range of surgical procedures, Vicryl provides consistent tensile strength and predictable absorption, making it a preferred choice for both skin and internal soft tissue closure.
Healthcare professionals select Vicryl for its excellent biocompatibility and smooth handling. Unlike natural gut sutures, Vicryl causes minimal tissue reaction and absorbs reliably, reducing the need for removal. However, knowing when to choose Vicryl over other options depends on wound location, required support period, and patient factors.
Specifications: Material, Sizes, and Absorbability
Important Information Table: Vicryl Suture Basics
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyglactin 910 (90% glycolide, 10% L-lactide) |
| Absorbability | Absorbable; complete absorption in 56–70 days |
| Tensile Strength | ~75% at 2 weeks, 50% at 3 weeks |
| Coating | Calcium stearate & polyglactin 370 for smoother handling |
| Sizes Available | USP 10-0 (fine) to USP 1 (thick) |
| Colors | Violet (dyed) or undyed (natural/off-white) |
| Common Uses | Internal soft tissue, subcuticular, ligation, OB/GYN, GI, urology |
Understanding Suture Sizes and Selection
Suture size is a key consideration when choosing Vicryl. Finer sizes (e.g., 6-0, 5-0) are used for delicate or small vessels, while larger ones (2-0, 0) suit fascia or deeper tissue layers. The violet dyed option improves visibility for precise placement, while undyed sutures reduce risk of visible marks in cosmetic zones.
Absorbability is essential for procedures where future suture removal would risk tissue trauma or is simply impractical, such as deep layers or pediatric surgery. Still, Vicryl is not recommended for cardiovascular or neural tissue.
Advantages & Clinical Applications
Why Choose Vicryl?
- Absorbable: Eliminates need for removal in most soft tissue closures
- Reliable strength: Maintains support during initial healing
- Excellent pliability: Braided structure allows easy knot tying
- Minimal tissue reaction: Synthetic, reducing inflammation
- Broad range of sizes: Suitable for fine to heavy tissue
Common Clinical Applications
Vicryl sutures are widely used in:
- General surgery: For subcutaneous and fascia closure
- Obstetrics & gynecology: Episiotomy repair, cesarean section
- Pediatrics: Minimizes need for follow-up removal
- Urology and GI surgery: Internal organ anastomoses
- Plastic surgery: Subcuticular or buried knots
While highly versatile, Vicryl’s moderate tensile strength means it may not suit areas needing prolonged mechanical support. For these cases, alternative sutures like Polydioxanone (PDS) might be preferable.
Handling & Technique Tips
Optimizing Surgical Technique with Vicryl
Surgeons appreciate Vicryl’s smooth passage through tissue, making it less traumatic than thicker or non-coated sutures. Its braided structure enables secure knot-tying, often requiring three or four throws for optimal knot security.
However, braided sutures can harbor bacteria in contaminated wounds, so monofilament sutures like nylon may be preferred for high-infection-risk settings. For subcuticular use, Vicryl’s low “memory” reduces the risk of knot slippage, further aiding closure reliability.
Key Handling Advantages
- Easy to tie and control
- Minimal fraying or « sawing » through tissue
- Readily absorbed without high tissue inflammation
- Violet color for clear visualization in operating field
Students practicing suturing can develop confidence with Vicryl due to its forgiving handling and strong feedback when threading or knotting.
Buying, Pricing, and Supplier Comparison
What Should You Look For?
Before purchase, compare Vicryl by considering key product specifications, required sizes, needle types, and packaging quantities. Major suppliers include Ethicon (original brand), as well as well-regarded alternatives like B.Braun, Sutures India, and Medtronic-Covidien. Always ensure products are CE/FDA approved and come with verified sterility.
Pricing varies widely depending on size, needle type (cutting vs round-bodied), and packaging (single or multipack). Bulk hospital purchases can lower costs significantly versus retail single-packs for clinics or students.
Checklist for Buying Vicryl Sutures
- Confirm authenticity and supplier credentials
- Choose suitable size and needle for your procedure
- Consider need for dyed vs undyed thread
- Request samples if trialing new brands/suppliers
- Verify sterility, expiry, and regulatory certification
- Compare unit pricing for bulk vs single purchases
- Check supplier return and replacement policies
Typical Price Ranges (as of early 2026)
- Single sterile pack: $2–$7 (size and needle dependent)
- Box of 12–36: $20–$120 (bulk, larger sizes or specialty needles higher)
Reputable medical suppliers may also offer product datasheets or samples to assist in clinical decision-making and bulk procurement planning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vicryl Surgical Suture
Is Vicryl suture absorbable or non-absorbable?
Vicryl is absorbable; it hydrolyzes in the body over 8–10 weeks, eliminating the need for removal in most tissue applications.
Can Vicryl suture be used externally on skin?
It can be used in subcuticular closures but is typically avoided in outer skin layers, as early absorption may lead to dehiscence. Non-absorbable alternatives are often preferred for external closure.
What are the main competitors or alternatives to Vicryl?
Alternatives include Polysorb (Covidien), Safil (B. Braun), and other polyglactin 910 products, as well as absorbable monofilament options like PDS (polydioxanone) and Monocryl (poliglecaprone 25).
Does using Vicryl increase infection risk?
Braided sutures, including Vicryl, can harbor bacteria if used in contaminated wounds. Use monofilament sutures like nylon in such cases.
How should Vicryl sutures be stored?
Store Vicryl in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and always check expiry dates before use for sterility assurance.