What Are PGA Sutures? Uses, Absorption Time, and Vicryl Comparison

What are PGA sutures?

PGA (Polyglycolic Acid) sutures are synthetic, braided, absorbable sutures designed for long-term wound support. They resorb through hydrolysis over 60–90 days and retain tensile strength for up to 2–3 weeks, making them ideal for soft tissue closure in dental and surgical procedures.

 

When are PGA sutures used?

  • Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR): Helps stabilize membranes over bone grafts during regeneration.

  • Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): Supports soft tissue healing while protecting underlying grafts.

  • Socket Preservation: Maintains flap position after tooth extraction and graft placement.

  • Dental Implant Placement: Secures surgical flaps during implant healing.

  • Wisdom Tooth Extractions: Closes surgical sites to promote healing and reduce complications.

How long does it take for PGA sutures to absorb?

PGA sutures retain strength for about 14–21 days and fully absorb within 60–90 days. This reliable absorption profile ensures support through early healing without requiring removal.

 

What are the advantages of PGA sutures?

  • Easy handling and secure knot retention

  • Predictable resorption timeline

  • Minimal tissue reaction

  • Lower bacterial accumulation compared to natural gut sutures

Are PGA and Vicryl the same?

Vicryl® is a brand name for a PGA-based suture produced by Ethicon (Johnson & Johnson). While both share the same core material, Vicryl includes proprietary coatings. All Vicryl sutures are made of PGA, but not all PGA sutures are Vicryl.


Buy Vitality™ PGA Sutures Online

Shop Vitality PGA Sutures for high-performance, absorbable sutures trusted in oral and periodontal surgery. Available in 4-0 and 5-0, with reverse cutting needles for clean, precise closure.