Absorbable sutures · Polyglycolic acid
PGA surgical sutures
PGA sutures are synthetic absorbable sutures manufactured from polyglycolic acid, commonly supplied in a braided construction. Use this page to understand the material, compare stocked absorbable alternatives or ask us to source a specific manufacturer code.
Synthetic absorbable
Polyglycolic acid
Typically braided
Professional supply
PGA products are not currently published online
If you have a manufacturer, product name or catalogue code, send it to our team. We can check specification and supply availability without you selecting an unsuitable alternative.
Understanding PGA sutures
PGA means polyglycolic acid. It is a synthetic absorbable polymer used in surgical sutures and is distinct from polyglactin 910, poliglecaprone 25 and polydioxanone. Brand, coating, absorption profile and strength retention vary by manufacturer, so any replacement must be checked against the complete specification.
MaterialSynthetic polyglycolic acid
AbsorbabilityAbsorbable; profile varies by product
ConstructionCommonly braided and coated
IdentificationMatch manufacturer and full catalogue code
Compare stocked absorbable materials
These collections are available for comparison when your purchasing specification permits another absorbable material. Material substitutions should only be made by an appropriately qualified decision-maker.
Braided absorbable
VICRYL
Browse polyglactin 910 sutures, including standard, RAPIDE and PLUS families.
Compare VICRYL → Monofilament absorbableMONOCRYL
Explore poliglecaprone 25 sutures across standard and PLUS configurations.
Compare MONOCRYL → Extended supportPDS II
View polydioxanone monofilament sutures for specifications requiring prolonged support.
Compare PDS II → Complete categoryAll absorbable sutures
Compare currently stocked absorbable materials, brands, sizes and needle types.
View all absorbable sutures →What to include in a PGA sourcing request
The quickest route is to send us a photograph of the existing pack or the complete manufacturer code. If that is unavailable, include as much of the specification as possible.
Manufacturer and product codeThese provide the most reliable product identification.
Suture specificationInclude USP size, strand length, colour, coating and pack quantity.
Needle specificationInclude needle code, point type, curvature, length and arm configuration.
PGA suture FAQs
What does PGA mean in surgical sutures?
PGA means polyglycolic acid, a synthetic absorbable polymer used in surgical sutures. Product construction, coating and performance details vary by manufacturer.
Are PGA sutures absorbable?
Yes. PGA sutures are absorbable. The precise strength-retention and absorption profile depends on the specific product, so consult the manufacturer’s current labelling and IFU.
Are PGA and VICRYL the same?
No. PGA is polyglycolic acid, while VICRYL is Ethicon’s branded polyglactin 910 range. Although both may be braided and absorbable, their material composition and product specifications differ.
Can Suture Supply Co source a specific PGA suture?
Send us the manufacturer name and complete product code, or a photograph of the current pack. We can then check the exact specification and available supply options.
Professional-use information: This page supports product identification and purchasing only and is not clinical guidance. Qualified healthcare professionals should approve product selection and consult the manufacturer’s current labelling and instructions for use.