Method: A survey was distributed to periodontists in the United States, each of whom selected their choice of suture material for each of the periodontal surgical procedures. Periodontal surgical procedures were categorized into six categories as selected by the periodontal faculty at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Practicing periodontists in the United States were polled for their preferences in suture material for each of the surgical categories. The suture materials of choice were compared to each periodontal procedure.
Result: A survey was distributed to periodontists affiliated with the American Academy of Periodontologyand 523 responses were collected. In the initial survey, it was evident there was a short coming in the survey because it did not allow for multiple material and size to be selected for a surgery. Multiple suture materials are often required due to the complexity of the periodontal surgery. After careful consideration, a second survey which addressed these concerns was sent. Chromic gut, Vicryl (Dexon, Resolute), and silk are most commonly used in the periodontal practice. However, the variance is based on the surgical procedure, location, and among other factors.
Conclusion: Knowledge of the various suture materials and understanding of its characteristics are required for optimal wound healing. There is no single best material for each procedure. The most commonly used suture materials were reviewed based on a survey distributed to daily practice. The survey tried to present the current trend of suture materials for periodontal surgeries.