Prolene
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208090999
2008-04-25T12:09:15Z
129.78.64.102
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'''Prolene''' is a [[synthetic]], nonabsorbable [[polypropylene]] [[suture]]. It is indicated for skin closure and general soft tissue approximation and ligation. Its advantages include high tensile strength, minimal tissue reactivity, and slipperiness (allowing easy removal from tissues). Disadvantages include high plasticity, high expense, and difficulty of use compared to standard [[nylon]] sutures.
[[Image:Syndiotactic polypropene.png|thumb|right|A ball-and-stick model of polypropylene.]]
Composed of an isotactic crystalline [[stereoisomer]] of polypropylene, Prolene sutures are intended to be durable and long lasting. They are dyed [[blue]], allowing for easy visibility against [[skin]] and when operating. It is composed of a single filament.
A polypropylene mesh is also marketed under the name Prolene by Ethicon. It is used for repairing [[hernia]]s and other injuries to the [[fascia]].
Prolene commonly is used in both human and [[veterinary]] medicine for skin closure. In human medicine it is used in cardiovascular, ophthalmic and neurological procedures. It is often used in conjunction with the absorbable suture [[Monocryl]]. Prolene is manufactured by [[Ethicon Inc.]], a subsidiary of [[Johnson and Johnson]]. The name Prolene is a trademark of Ethicon Inc.
==See also==
*[[Monocryl]]
*[[Ethicon]]
==External links==
*[http://ecatalog.ethicon.com/EC_ECATALOG/ethicon/content/CAT_89.htm Ethicon Product Catalog]
{{unreferenced|date=June 2007}}
[[Category:Suture material]]
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