Vicryl Suture Dissolution Time in Fascia
Vicryl (polyglactin 910) sutures placed in fascia lose approximately 50% of their tensile strength by 2 weeks and are completely absorbed by 90 days, though the critical wound-support period ends much earlier. 1, 2, 3
Tensile Strength Timeline
Week 1: Vicryl retains approximately 50-75% of its original tensile strength during the first postoperative week. 1
Week 2: The in-vivo half-life tensile strength of polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) is 2 weeks, meaning it loses roughly 50% of its strength by this point. 2
Weeks 3-12: Progressive loss of tensile strength continues as hydrolysis proceeds, with complete absorption occurring by 90 days (approximately 12-13 weeks). 3
Complete Absorption Timeline
90 days (12-13 weeks): Virtually all remnants of polyglactin 910 are absorbed by this timepoint based on histologic examination in animal studies. 3
This absorption timeline is significantly faster than other absorbable sutures like polydioxanone (PDS), which retains 50% tensile strength at 6 weeks and absorbs more slowly. 2
Clinical Implications for Fascial Closure
The critical support period for fascial healing is the first 2-3 weeks, during which Vicryl provides adequate tensile strength for wound approximation. 1, 2
After 2 weeks, the suture's mechanical contribution diminishes rapidly, and wound healing must rely on native tissue strength. 2
For emergency laparotomy closure, current guidelines recommend slowly absorbable monofilament sutures (which includes Vicryl) with a suture-to-wound length ratio of at least 4:1 to compensate for the progressive loss of tensile strength. 4
Important Caveats
Knot placement reduces tensile strength by 30-35%, so the effective in-vivo strength is lower than the suture's rated strength. 2
The braided multifilament structure of standard Vicryl may theoretically increase infection risk compared to monofilament alternatives, though clinical significance in fascial closure remains debated. 4, 5
Vicryl Rapide (irradiated polyglactin 910) is a different formulation designed for skin closure with faster absorption (7-10 days for tensile strength loss), and should not be confused with standard Vicryl used for fascial closure. 6