Which of the following is NOT a variety of absorbable suture?

NIA - 29 January 2023

Medical Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: NIA - 29 January 2023

Explanation

Polyamide, commonly known by its trade name Nylon, is a synthetic non-absorbable suture.
Non-absorbable sutures are not broken down by the body's enzymes or through hydrolysis; they are encapsulated by fibrous tissue.
Because it is not absorbed, Polyamide is often used for skin closure and must be manually removed once the wound has healed sufficiently.
It provides long-term tensile strength, which is not required for all tissue types, making it the correct answer for the suture that is NOT absorbable.

Option A: Polyglactin (e.g., Vicryl) is a synthetic, braided, absorbable suture. It is broken down by hydrolysis and is completely absorbed by the body within 56 to 70 days, making it an absorbable suture.
Option B: Polyglycolic acid (e.g., Dexon) was the first synthetic absorbable suture. It is also broken down by hydrolysis and is typically absorbed within 60 to 90 days.
Option C: Polydioxanone (e.g., PDS) is a monofilament, synthetic, absorbable suture. It is known for its extended wound support, with absorption completed at around 180 days. Despite its longevity, it is still classified as absorbable.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Suture Materials as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Selecting the correct suture type is a fundamental surgical skill critical for optimal wound healing. A nurse's understanding of suture types is important for patient education and monitoring wound healing.
Using an absorbable suture where a non-absorbable one is needed (e.g., for long-term tissue support in hernia repair) can lead to premature failure and wound dehiscence.
Conversely, using a non-absorbable suture in deep tissues can lead to a permanent foreign body reaction, chronic inflammation, or sinus tract formation.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the negative keyword 'NOT' in the question. This signals that you are looking for the option that is an exception.
The core concept is 'absorbable suture'. The task is to find the one option that is NOT absorbable.
Systematically review the options by recalling the classification of common suture materials.
Evaluate each option: Polyglactin (Vicryl), Polyglycolic acid (Dexon), and Polydioxanone (PDS) are all well-known synthetic absorbable sutures.
Recognize that Polyamide (Nylon) is a classic example of a non-absorbable suture, commonly used for skin and requiring removal.
Conclude that Polyamide is the correct answer because it is the only non-absorbable suture in the list.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Classification of Suture Materials
Stem keywords: suture, absorbable suture
Lead-in keywords: NOT
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the option that is NOT a type of absorbable suture.

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