How do the ends of non-removable sutures fall off?

The ways in which non-removable suture ends may fall off naturally generally include natural absorption and dissolution by the body, spontaneous shedding after wound healing, extrusion during local tissue repair, assisted detachment through mild external friction, and maintaining cleanliness to promote natural shedding. Specific details are as follows:

1. Natural absorption and dissolution by the body: Non-removable sutures are mostly made of absorbable materials that are gradually broken down and absorbed by body tissues after implantation. As this absorption process progresses, the exposed suture ends become shorter over time and eventually dissolve completely without requiring any additional intervention.

2. Spontaneous shedding after wound healing: Although some non-removable sutures need to be absorbed, the superficial portion of the suture may spontaneously fall off once wound healing and tissue repair are complete, due to loss of anchoring support. The timing of shedding depends on the wound location and healing speed.

3. Expulsion during local tissue repair: During wound healing, local tissues undergo metabolic renewal, which may gradually push out suture ends that have not been fully absorbed, eventually expelling them from the body along with skin metabolic waste, usually without causing noticeable discomfort.

4. Assisted detachment through mild external friction: After the wound has stabilized, mild friction from clothing or towels during daily activities can help loosen already detached suture ends and accelerate their shedding. However, forceful pulling should be avoided to prevent wound damage.

5. Maintaining cleanliness to promote natural shedding: Keeping the wound and surrounding skin clean and dry reduces the risk of infection and prevents secretions from adhering to the suture ends, allowing them to shed naturally without obstruction while also supporting wound recovery.

During the period when non-removable sutures are shedding, avoid cutting or pulling the suture ends yourself, as this may cause wound dehiscence or infection. If the suture ends do not fall off after a prolonged period (more than 2–4 weeks), or if redness, swelling, or discharge occurs, seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, take care to protect the wound and avoid excessive friction or getting it wet (follow medical advice).