Ethicon Johnson - NW3311 - Ethilon Sutures - NW3311 USP 10-0, 3/8 Circle Round Body Micro Point Double Needle - 12 Foils Box

This product is a non-absorbable, synthetic monofilament surgical suture composed of nylon. It is designed for procedures requiring fine tissue approximation and is presented in a sterile format. The suture is black in color, facilitating visibility during surgical interventions.

Each unit consists of a 25cm length of suture material. The material's non-absorbable nature means it is not broken down by the body and will remain in place unless removed. This characteristic is important for long-term tissue support or when a permanent closure is desired.

The suture functions by providing a means to close wounds, reapproximate tissues, and ligate blood vessels. The monofilament construction minimizes drag through tissue compared to braided sutures, which can be advantageous in delicate dissections. The nylon material offers good tensile strength, although it does experience a gradual reduction in strength over time, with approximately 20% loss in retention strength per year.

This characteristic should be considered when determining the duration of support required for a particular surgical application.

Key features include the USP 10-0 diameter, indicating a very fine gauge suitable for micro-surgery and other procedures where minimal tissue trauma is paramount. It is equipped with a 5mm, 3/8 circle round body micro-point needle. The micro-point tip is designed for penetration of tough tissues with reduced force, and the round body configuration is suitable for suturing in soft tissues.

The presence of a double needle allows for continuous suturing techniques or for use in specific anatomical locations where two points of fixation are beneficial.

This type of suture is primarily utilized by medical professionals, including surgeons, surgical residents, and nurses in various surgical specialties. It is particularly relevant in fields such as ophthalmology, plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery, and other areas where precise and fine suturing is essential. Patients undergoing procedures requiring delicate closure may also indirectly benefit from the use of this specialized suture.

Caregivers may encounter this product in post-operative wound management settings.

Typical applications for this suture include microsurgical repairs, such as those performed on nerves or blood vessels, as well as facial plastic surgery, eyelid surgery, and other procedures involving small or delicate anatomical structures. Its fine gauge and sharp needle make it suitable for closing small incisions, approximating skin edges in cosmetic procedures, or for securing grafts in reconstructive surgery. The non-absorbable nature also lends itself to situations where long-term tissue support is needed, such as in certain types of hernia repair or when closing fascial layers that require sustained strength.

Important usage notes include maintaining aseptic technique throughout the handling and application of the suture to prevent infection. The suture should be stored according to manufacturer guidelines to preserve its sterility and integrity. Given its non-absorbable nature, consideration should be given to potential tissue reaction over extended periods and the possibility of suture removal if indicated.

The tensile strength loss over time should be factored into the surgical plan, especially for applications requiring prolonged support. The micro-point needle is designed for specific tissue types and should be used with appropriate surgical instruments to avoid damage to the needle or surrounding tissues.