Characteristics:

• Excellent tensile strength throughout the critical wound healing period
• Excellent knot security
• Excellent handling
• Predictable absorption rate

Indications: PGA is indicated for use in general soft tissue approximation and/or ligation, including use in ophthalmic procedures, but not for use in cardiovascular and neurological procedures.

Contraindications: Due to rapid loss of tensile strength, this suture should not be used where prolonged tissue approximation under stress is required or where wound support beyond 7 days is necessary. PGA is not suitable for cardiovascular or neurosurgical procedures.

Tensile Strength: Studies of implantation in subcutaneous tissue in rats indicate that PGA suture retains approximately 65% of its initial tensile strength after 2 weeks post-implantation.

Absorption: Absorption begins as a loss of tensile strength with minimal loss of mass. Absorption of PGA sutures is essentially complete between 60 and 90 days.