Polydioxanone Sutures

What Duracryl Polydioxanone Suture Is

Duracryl is the brand name for the polydioxanone (PDS) suture manufactured by Dolphin Sutures. It is a sterile, synthetic, monofilament absorbable suture composed of the polyester poly (p-dioxanone), with an empirical polymer formula of (C4H6O3)n. Classified within the absorbable suture category, it is intended for general soft tissue approximation and ligation across a range of surgical specialties.

Composition and Construction

The suture is composed of polydioxanone at approximately 99.5% w/w, with dye content of approximately 0.5% w/w. To enhance intraoperative visibility, the suture is dyed violet using D&C Violet No. 2 (Colour Index Number 60725) during polymerization. Where needles are attached, they are made from AISI 302 or AISI 420 stainless steel. Barbed configurations are available, with barbs arranged in unidirectional or bi-directional spiral patterns. The product complies with USP standards.

Handling and Characteristics

As a monofilament, Duracryl passes through tissue with minimal drag and exhibits a minimal memory effect, helping it resist kinking and pass smoothly through tissue. Absorption proceeds by simple hydrolysis, with the suture typically absorbed between 180 and 190 days post-implantation in the referenced study. Its extended strength profile suits closures where longer-term tissue approximation is required. The suture is also compatible with magnetic resonance imaging.

Presentations

Duracryl is offered in USP gauge sizes 6-0, 5-0, 4-0, 3-0, 2-0, 0 and 1. It is supplied either non-needled or pre-attached to stainless steel needles in a range of profiles, including 1/2 circle round body and 3/8 circle cutting configurations, across various needle and suture lengths.