Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Practice Test

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What is an absorbable suture that offers extended wound support called?

Vicryl
PDS
Catgut
Silk

The correct answer is: PDS

The absorbable suture that offers extended wound support is known as PDS, which stands for Polydioxanone. PDS is a synthetic absorbable suture material that is designed to provide prolonged tensile strength, retaining about 50% of its strength at around 4-6 weeks, and its complete absorption generally occurs over 180 days. This extended wound support makes it particularly useful for procedures where long-lasting closure is advantageous, such as in tissue that may take longer to heal, or in areas subject to tension. In contrast, other absorbable sutures, like catgut, provide a much shorter duration of support. Silk, while used in surgical procedures, is not absorbable and is generally utilized for its handling characteristics rather than for long-term wound support. Vicryl is also an absorbable suture, but it does not offer the same level of prolonged support as PDS, as it typically loses tensile strength within 2-3 weeks. Thus, PDS is specifically chosen for its ability to maintain strength for extended periods, making it the correct answer.