Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct answer is catgut, which is an absorbable suture material. Catgut is made from the intestines of sheep or goats, and it undergoes a process that allows it to be absorbed by the body over time. This characteristic makes it particularly useful in surgeries where long-term support is not necessary, and it helps to eliminate the need for suture removal after healing is complete.

Absorbable sutures, like catgut, typically break down due to enzymatic processes or hydrolysis and can provide the needed support for tissue healing without the risk of presenting foreign material in the body for an extended period.

In contrast, silk, nylon, and polyester are non-absorbable sutures. Silk is often used for its ease of handling and knot security, but it remains in the body and requires surgical removal if placed internally. Nylon and polyester, which are synthetic materials, provide excellent tensile strength and are frequently used in various types of surgical procedures, but they also do not dissolve and must be removed if used in a manner that necessitates it.