Absorbable sutures are a type of surgical thread used to close wounds or surgical incisions. They are designed to dissolve naturally in the body over time, eliminating the need for removal. These sutures are made from materials like polyglycolic acid or catgut, which break down through natural processes. The primary advantage of absorbable sutures is that they provide support during the healing process without requiring a follow-up procedure for removal. They are commonly used in internal surgeries, such as those involving the digestive system or muscle tissue, where external sutures would be impractical.