Dissolvable Stitches Dog Surgery
If you’ve ever had surgery, you may be familiar with the discomfort and inconvenience of having to go back for a second appointment to remove your stitches. Luckily, for our furry friends, dissolvable stitches have become increasingly popular in veterinary medicine. Dissolvable stitches, also known as absorbable sutures, are a type of surgical stitching that dissolve and are absorbed by the body over time.
Main Benefits
Dissolvable stitches offer a variety of benefits over traditional sutures, especially for dogs:
No Second Surgery
One of the main benefits of dissolvable stitches is that they eliminate the need for a second surgery to remove them. This can be uncomfortable for dogs and lead to infection if the stitches aren’t removed correctly. With dissolvable stitches, the stitches disappear over time, eliminating the need for a second surgery.
Reduced Risk of Infection
Traditional sutures can harbor bacteria, leading to infection if not removed or cleaned correctly. Dissolvable stitches, on the other hand, do not provide a breeding ground for bacteria, reducing the risk of infection.
Less Visible
Dissolvable stitches are also less visible than traditional sutures, which can be especially beneficial for dogs with longer hair. Traditional sutures are typically made of nylon or other synthetic materials, which can be quite visible on a dog’s coat. Dissolvable stitches, on the other hand, are made of materials that are similar in color to the dog’s skin, making them much less visible.
Reduced Risk of Scarring
Traditional sutures can create tension on the skin, leading to scarring. Dissolvable stitches gradually dissolve and are absorbed by the body, reducing the risk of scarring.
Less Irritating
Dogs that are prone to licking and chewing at their incisions may find traditional sutures irritating, but dissolvable stitches are designed to be less irritating, reducing the risk of the dog licking and chewing at the incision.
Benefits of Dissolvable Stitches for Dogs
Dissolvable stitches are a great option for dogs undergoing surgery. They offer several benefits, including no need for a second surgery, reduced risk of infection and scarring, less visibility, and less irritation. However, dissolvable stitches should only be used in closed wounds and not in areas of high tension or stress. Proper aftercare and monitoring are still necessary to ensure proper healing. As a pet owner, it’s important to consider the benefits of dissolvable stitches and discuss them with your veterinarian. Additionally, having pet insurance can help with the costs of surgical procedures, making it easier to provide the best care for your furry friend.