Packaged, desiccated surgical elements

摘要: A desiccated, that is, dry absorbable synthetic surgical element of a polymer subject to hydrolytic degradation non-toxic, tissue-compatible, components, such as polyglycolic acid suture, is packaged in an airtight sealed container which substantially impervious water vapor laminate film having metallic foil layer. The gaseous contents the envelope are, prior sealing suture within envelope, either evacuated or replaced with gas inert towards said and free from water. content should be below 0.5% by weight element, preferably remains 0.05% weight. Desiccated sutures other elements thus retain acceptable levels strength for at least one year storage temperatures 72° F. ambient humidity outside package. may sterilized using ethylene oxide.