Ethicon Johnson - NW881 - Prolene Sutures USP 5-0, 3/8 Circle Round Body - NW881 -12 Foils Box

This product consists of sterile, non-absorbable surgical sutures made from monofilament polypropylene, presented in a blue color. Each suture is 70 cm in length and is attached to a 16 mm, 3/8 circle round body needle. The needle is constructed from Ethalloy, a specialized alloy, and is silver in color.

The sutures are supplied in individual foil packets, with 12 foils per box, and are sterilized using ethylene oxide gas. This specific configuration is designed for delicate surgical procedures where a strong, inert, and smooth passage through tissue is required.

The monofilament construction of Prolene sutures minimizes tissue drag, allowing for easier passage through tissues and a reduced risk of bacterial adherence compared to braided materials. The polypropylene material is known for its high tensile strength and inertness, meaning it elicits minimal tissue reaction and remains in place indefinitely without degradation. The blue coloration aids in visibility during surgical procedures, particularly in the presence of blood or other fluids.

The round body needle is suitable for suturing soft tissues, allowing for penetration without cutting through tissue fibers, which is beneficial for maintaining tissue integrity.

The key benefits of using this suture include its excellent handling characteristics, smooth passage, and predictable performance. Its non-absorbable nature ensures long-term wound support, making it suitable for applications where permanent tissue approximation is necessary. The inertness of polypropylene reduces the risk of inflammation and infection, contributing to a more favorable healing environment.

The specific needle design and size are optimized for precise placement in delicate anatomical structures.

This type of suture is primarily used by cardiovascular surgeons, general surgeons, and other surgical specialists. It is indicated for use in a variety of surgical procedures, including cardiovascular surgery, such as mitral valve annuloplasty, as well as other soft tissue approximation and ligation procedures where a non-absorbable, high-strength suture is required. It is also utilized in situations where prolonged wound support is anticipated or when minimizing tissue reaction is paramount.

Typical applications involve the closure of surgical incisions, approximation of tissues, and ligation of vessels. Its use in cardiovascular surgery, particularly around the mitral valve annulus, highlights its suitability for delicate and critical anatomical areas. The non-absorbable nature makes it appropriate for procedures requiring permanent support, such as hernia repair or certain types of plastic surgery, although this specific configuration is most commonly associated with cardiac procedures.

Important usage notes include maintaining aseptic technique throughout the handling and placement of the suture to prevent contamination. The suture should be handled with appropriate surgical instruments to avoid damage to the monofilament. Surgeons should select the appropriate needle driver and technique for optimal knot tying and tissue approximation.

As a non-absorbable suture, it will remain in the tissue indefinitely, and its presence should be considered in long-term patient management. The suture is intended for single use only and should not be resterilized.