Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

Are nonabsorbable sutures dissolved by body fluids?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: False

Nonabsorbable sutures are designed to maintain their structure and tensile strength over time, and they are not dissolved by body fluids. This characteristic makes them suitable for applications requiring long-term support, such as in certain types of surgeries or wound closures where the sutures need to withstand stress for an extended period. The composition of nonabsorbable sutures, which often includes materials such as nylon, polyester, or silk, ensures that they resist degradation or absorption by the body. In contrast, absorbable sutures are specifically engineered to break down and be absorbed by the body over time, which is ideal for internal suturing where removal is not practical. Understanding the differences in types of sutures, including their absorbability and purpose, is essential for medical professionals when deciding which suture type to use for a specific procedure.