This study presents an innovative absorbable surgical suture designed to overcome the limitations of conventional absorbable sutures. Traditional collagen-based catgut sutures elicit immune reactions and undergo uncontrolled degradation. The currently prevalent absorbable synthetic polymer sutures exhibit high strength, but their degraded byproducts can damage tissue cells. Consequently, they are not suitable for certain surgeries, particularly in sensitive areas such as neuro-dense sites.

Through advanced material modification and processing techniques, we have developed a novel absorbable suture based on soluble collagen. This suture maintains exceptional biocompatibility and low antigenicity, while simultaneously enhancing mechanical strength and extending its degradation cycle. Animal experiment and preliminary human application demonstrate reduced postoperative inflammation, improved wound healing, and minimized scarring. Notably, the collagen suture exhibits higher mechanical strength in vivo compared to control synthetic polymer sutures. Furthermore, the suture’s degradation is synchronized with wound healing, and no immune rejection or adverse events were observed.

This suture offers significant advantages in sensitive tissue applications, such as ophthalmology and neurosurgery, eliminating the need for removal procedures. It represents a paradigm shift in suture technology, providing a revolutionary approach to precise medical interventions. This material technology has the potential to transform global surgical practices.

The authors have declared no competing interest.

This study was funded by Optical Valley Talents Investment Fund

I confirm all relevant ethical guidelines have been followed, and any necessary IRB and/or ethics committee approvals have been obtained.

Yes

The details of the IRB/oversight body that provided approval or exemption for the research described are given below:

This preliminary human application was approved by the hospital's Ethics Committee (Ethics Committee of Huazhong University of Science and Technology), under reference number:2019EA254, and informed consent was obtained from the patient regarding the experimental nature of the procedure.

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Yes

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I have followed all appropriate research reporting guidelines, such as any relevant EQUATOR Network research reporting checklist(s) and other pertinent material, if applicable.

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All data produced in the present study are available upon reasonable request to the authors