Reactions to Bioabsorbable Suture Thread Embedded in Rat Subcutaneous Tissue

Abstract

We examined the subcutaneous tissue reactions in rats to bioabsorbable suture thread using histopathological methods. Using Wister rats, Vicryl^®, a bioabsorbable suture thread, was embedded into the subcutaneous tissue and histopathological examination was carried out after 4 weeks. Cholesterin crystals were used for the control. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry for CD68 was done. Histopathological examination showed proliferation of granulation tissues in both experimental and control groups. The majority of cells in the granulation tissues were macrophages and giant cells. Fibroblasts were also observed in the proliferating granulation tissues surrounding the embedded bioabsorbable suture thread. Immunohistochemistry revealed that macrophages and giant cells were positive to CD68. The results suggest that the embedded bioabsorbable suture thread is not only fabricated to undergo absorption but also for phagocytosis by macrophages and foreign body giant cells.