Chromic Catgut Sutures

What Chromic Catgut Suture Is

Chromic Catgut, marketed under the Progut brand, is a natural absorbable suture within Dolphin Sutures’ absorbable range. It is composed of purified connective tissue (collagen) obtained from the submucosal layer of sheep (ovine) or goat intestine. The suture is absorbed in the body by enzymatic proteolytic digestion, which removes the need for later suture removal in many internal applications. It is available with or without a needle, and as ligature material for tissue-tying applications.

Composition and Construction

The suture is produced by longitudinally slitting the intestinal submucosa, then twisting and polishing the collagen ribbons to give a virtually monofilament finish. The suture material is collagen-based catgut at approximately 99% w/w. The chromic variant is treated with chromium salts and pyrogallol; this treatment prolongs the absorption profile, improves resistance to absorption, and imparts the characteristic dark brown colour. Where needled, the suture is attached to AISI 302 or AISI 420 stainless-steel needles.

Characteristics and Handling

Chromic Catgut is designed to provide temporary wound support during healing while undergoing gradual absorption. Absorption occurs by enzymatic proteolytic action and may be accelerated in infected tissues or tissues with high proteolytic activity, so the exact absorption period varies with tissue condition, implantation site, and patient factors. The material offers pliability and handling characteristics suited to suturing. Accepted knotting techniques and additional throws help maintain knot stability.

Presentations

The suture is available in USP gauge sizes ranging from 4-0 up to size 2 and beyond, in various suture lengths, either non-needled or attached to needles of differing profiles, lengths, and shapes. Common needle profiles include round-body and cutting configurations. It is also supplied as ligature material without a needle.