Absorbable sutures in general surgery - review, available materials, and optimum choices.

Sutures are the most versatile materials used in surgery. Despite recent technological advances and availability of novel materials such as tissue cements, it appears that surgical sutures will continue to be used for many years to come. The objective of this study was to provide an overview of the most common absorbable sutures used in general surgery. The appropriate suture choice for a particular procedure is of key importance for the success of that procedure.