A Comparative Study of Episiotomy Suturing with Vicryl Rapide and Chromic Catgut and its Outcome

Dr. Ashlesha Madhusudan Khobragade, Dr. Vikas Devkare

Abstract: Background: Episiotomy is a common obstetric procedure performed to prevent severe perineal tears during childbirth. The choice of suture material for episiotomy repair plays a crucial role in postoperative outcomes, including pain, wound healing, and patient satisfaction. This study aims to compare the effectiveness and outcomes of two commonly used suture materials, Vicryl Rapide and Chromic Catgut, in episiotomy repair. Method: All the pregnant women in labour admitted in labour room of our tertiary care centre, 2000 patients satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria were taken and were equally assigned in one of the groups for episiotomy and suturing was done using either of the materials-Vicryl Rapide or chromic catgut. Outcomes were assessed over a six-week postpartum period, focusing on parameters such as pain levels, wound healing, infection rates, and the need for additional analgesia. Pain was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS) at 24 hours, 7 days, and 6 weeks postpartum. Results: The Vicryl Rapide group reported significantly lower pain scores at all time points compared to the Chromic Catgut group (p<0.05). Additionally, the Vicryl Rapide group exhibited faster wound healing, with fewer instances of wound dehiscence and infection (p<0.01). Patient satisfaction was notably higher in the Vicryl Rapide group, with a significant reduction in the need for additional analgesia. Conclusion: Vicryl Rapide demonstrates superior outcomes in episiotomy repair compared to Chromic Catgut, particularly in reducing pain and promoting better wound healing. These findings suggest that Vicryl Rapide should be considered the preferred suture material for episiotomy repair to enhance patient recovery and satisfaction.

Keywords: Episiotomy, Vicryl Rapide, Chromic Catgut, Analgesia, Visual analog scale, Postpartum