Abstract

PLANT-BASED BIODEGRADABLE SUTURES: A NOVEL ALTERNATIVE TO CATGUT FOR SUSTAINABLE SURGERY

Dhananjay Popalghat*, Prof. Prashant Ingle, Dr. Shivshankar Mhaske, Vishal Lande, Kapil Bhagat, Nilesh Gawali, Karan Gavhane

ABSTRACT

The move toward sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions in surgical procedures has increased interest in plant-based biodegradable sutures. Traditionally, medical professionals have relied heavily on catgut sutures, which are made from the intestines of sheep or cows. While these sutures have served well for many years, they come with several issues. They pose ethical concerns because they involve animal products. They can also trigger immune responses in some patients, causing inflammation or allergic reactions. Additionally, catgut sutures have limited strength and unpredictable degradation times, which can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. Because of these drawbacks, researchers are now exploring plant-derived materials as alternative options. These include fibers and biopolymers extractedfrom plants such as cellulose from cotton or wood pulp, alginate from seaweed, soy protein, and flax fibers. These plant-based materials offer a fresh approach to making surgical sutures. They can match important qualities like being compatible with living tissue, breaking down safely within the body, and providing the necessary strength to hold wounds together. Plant-based sutures are designed to degrade at a controlled rate, aligning with the healing process. They tend to cause fewer inflammatory reactions, making them safer for patients. Their production has a smaller environmental footprint because plants are renewable resources and require less energy compared to animal harvesting and chemical processing. This reduced environmental impact appeals to hospitals and clinics seeking greener options. This article examines how plant-based biodegradable sutures are made and characterized. It looks at their benefits over traditional catgut, such as improved biocompatibility, consistent degradation, and environmental benefits. It also discusses the challenges, including sourcing uniform plant materials and ensuring sufficient strength and durability. Future research directions are examined, with the goal of creating sutures that are both safe and effective. A thorough review of scientific studies, material tests, and clinical trials supports the potential of plant-based sutures. These new materials could transform surgical practices by providing a more sustainable, ethical, and patient-friendly option. As more data becomes available, plant-derived sutures are likely to become a common choice in the future. They show promise for advancing surgical care in ways that benefit both patients and the planet.

Keywords: Biodegradable sutures; plant-based biomaterials; catgut alternatives; sustainable surgery; wound healing; biocompatibility.