Is it Safe for a Non-Absorbable Suture to Remain in the Body Indefinitely?
I am a 41-year-old man from the United States who underwent surgery several months ago. Recently, I noticed some discomfort at one of my incision sites, accompanied by a small bump. Initially, I thought it resembled an ingrown hair or a large pimple. After experiencing persistent issues, I decided to seek medical advice. Upon examination, the doctor informed me that I had a suture that was overlooked during the removal process post-surgery. They administered a local anesthetic and attempted to remove it, but the suture had become entirely embedded beneath the skin. The physician mentioned that they successfully extracted the majority of the suture but were unable to retrieve the knot. Now, I find myself questioning whether the remaining piece will remain lodged in my skin indefinitely. Could this pose any health risks? Since the doctor didn’t appear overly concerned about leaving part of it in, I am inclined to think that it may not be a significant issue after all.
Answers (1)
3/18/2025, 2:01:12 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about the presence of a non-absorbable suture left in your body, especially if it's causing discomfort. Here’s a brief overview and some key points for you to consider.
Key Points:
- Non-absorbable sutures are designed to remain in the body for an extended period.
- Most often, they do not cause problems, but there can be exceptions.
- It’s good that you followed up with your doctor regarding the issue.
Explanation:
Non-absorbable sutures, like nylon or polypropylene, are used intentionally to provide long-term support to healing tissues. If a piece remains embedded under the skin, it typically won't dissolve and may stay there indefinitely. Many people have non-absorbable sutures remaining in their bodies without any issues.
However, if there are concerns such as discomfort, swelling, or signs of infection (like redness or discharge), these can indicate the body is reacting to the suture, even if the physician wasn't overly concerned.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the area for any changes. Note if the bump grows, becomes increasingly painful, or presents any unusual symptoms.
-
Pain Management: Use over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to manage any discomfort, following the appropriate dosing instructions.
-
Consult Your Doctor if:
- The discomfort becomes severe.
- The bump increases in size or becomes red and warm, which could indicate infection.
- You develop new symptoms, like fever.
-
Follow-Up Care: Consider scheduling a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss the remaining knot, especially if it continues to bother you.
Your doctor is the best resource for evaluating any potential risks related to the remaining suture and determining if any further action is necessary.
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