2007-03-09 07:16:40 · 5 answers · asked by Steamer 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Medicine
It depends entirely on the suture that is used. "Dissolving" stitches do not actually dissolve - they are broken down by the body.
Some last a week (plain gut), others may last for 2-3 months (PGA, PDS) There are a variety of different materials that are used to make absorbable sutures.
Learn way more than you ever wanted to know here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suture_material
2007-03-09 13:46:37 · answer #1 · answered by Pangolin 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If they are above the skin they will not dissolve and you need to have your Dr. look at them, dog. Under the skin I think I heard they dissolve in about 4-6 weeks.
I had some from a recent surgey above the skin and they had to pull them out- it was about a month after surgery and I could feel the stich when I ran my finger over it.
2007-03-09 15:21:07 · answer #2 · answered by leroy_w_jackson 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
About 4 weeks, but if they are still there go and see your Doc or Nurse, they will see if the need removing.
My Mum had a knee op and the last stitch didn't dissolve, so she took it out herself and got an infection, so please don't try this, you will regret it in the long term (it scars!)
2007-03-09 15:29:56 · answer #3 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Usually 2 weeks to a month. If you have anemia or blood clotting problems it can take longer for the wound to heal.
2007-03-09 15:21:21 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Different materials are used in different circumstances, catgut for a few days' streghth, chromic catgut for a week or two, and synthetics for a bit longer.
2007-03-09 19:02:58 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋