Prolene

Prolene is a synthetic, monofilament, nonabsorbable polypropylene suture. It is indicated for skin closure and general soft tissue approximation and ligation. Its advantages include minimal tissue reactivity and durability. Disadvantages include fragility, high plasticity, high expense, and difficulty of use compared to standard nylon sutures. Prolene is a synthetic, monofilament, nonabsorbable polypropylene suture. It is indicated for skin closure and general soft tissue approximation and ligation. Its advantages include minimal tissue reactivity and durability. Disadvantages include fragility, high plasticity, high expense, and difficulty of use compared to standard nylon sutures. 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 hernias 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. and is produced in Cornelia, Georgia, USA.