Maxon Suture Removal
Maxon (polyglyconate) sutures are absorbable monofilament sutures that do not require removal—they are designed to be left in place and will completely absorb within 6-7 months. 1, 2
Key Characteristics of Maxon Sutures
Maxon is a synthetic absorbable monofilament suture with a half-life of approximately 5 weeks and complete absorption occurring between 90-110 days (or 6-7 months depending on tissue environment). 2, 3
These sutures maintain tensile strength for longer than 60 days, making them ideal for deep dermal closures and internal tissue approximation where prolonged support is needed. 2
The monofilament structure provides low tissue drag and minimal bacterial seeding potential compared to braided sutures. 1, 3
Why Removal is Not Necessary
Because Maxon is absorbable, it eliminates the need for suture removal appointments, reducing patient visits and associated anxiety—particularly beneficial in pediatric populations. 3
The suture is specifically designed for internal use (dermal layers, gastrointestinal anastomoses, fascial closures) where removal would be impractical or impossible. 2, 3, 4
Critical Clinical Context
If you are seeing visible Maxon sutures on the skin surface that require removal, this represents an error in suture selection or placement. Maxon should be used for:
- Deep dermal (subcuticular) closures where the suture is buried beneath the skin surface 2
- Internal tissue approximation in surgical procedures 3, 4
- Situations where the wound requires support beyond the typical timeframe for non-absorbable suture removal 2
If Removal is Absolutely Required
In the rare circumstance where superficial Maxon sutures must be removed (due to misplacement or complication):
Follow standard non-absorbable suture removal technique: cleanse the area, cut one side of the suture near the knot, and pull through from the opposite side using sterile technique 5
Timing would follow anatomic location guidelines: face 3-5 days, scalp/trunk 7-10 days, extremities 10-14 days—though this scenario should be exceptional 6, 7
Check the wound for adequate healing, signs of infection, and risk of dehiscence before any removal attempt 6, 5
Common Pitfall
The most important pitfall is confusing Maxon with non-absorbable monofilament sutures (like nylon or polypropylene) that do require removal. If Maxon was appropriately used for deep dermal closure, attempting to "remove" it would involve unnecessary wound exploration and potential tissue damage. 2