Thread Types and Materials

Synthetic polymers have long been a cornerstone in the fields of tissue engineering, surgical interventions, and pharmacological applications, offering unparalleled versatility and innovation in medical treatments. Their appeal lies in the ability to customize mechanical properties and degradation rates, alongside the capacity to introduce functional groups tailored to specific medical needs. Moreover, their biodegradable and bioresorbable nature makes them particularly suited for integration and eventual absorption within biological systems. Among these polymers, poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), and poly(caprolactone) (PCL) are prominent for their widespread use as fundamental components in the manufacturing of sutures and suture anchors. These materials have revolutionized surgical practices, facilitating not only traditional surgical procedures but also pioneering minimally invasive techniques for aesthetic rejuvenation. This chapter discusses the diverse types and materials of threads utilized in lifting procedures, underscoring the technological advancements and material sciences that have propelled the use of polymer sutures to the forefront of surgical innovation.