Smart Sutures

Surgical sutures have been used for centuries to join two edges of a wound together to allow the body to heal faster. Originally, sutures were made from plant or animal materials such as silk, cotton, or catgut. Modern sutures are typically synthetic and made from polymer fibers. They can be resorbable, in that they dissolve over time and are absorbed into the tissue, or permanent, in which case they need to be removed after the wound has healed sufficiently to remain closed. Technological advances have made diagnostic devices smaller and more wearable. With a reduction in size comes an abundance of new applications. Thread-based technology has miniaturized electronic systems to such a degree that they can be integrated into surgical sutures. This allows modern sutures to be replaced with smart sutures that are capable of so much more than just holding tissue together. The development of thread-based technology has been studied by many professionals over several years. However, until recently, it has not been commercially feasible due to the high cost of the materials and equipment required for mass production. The thread has also been largely inflexible, making practical applications scarce. In contrast, the flexibility of smart threads allows them to be sewn in three dimensions, rather than the traditional two dimensional diagnostic devices. Recent developments make the possibility of smart sutures and intelligent bandages a conceivable reality within a year or two.