Why catgut suture is known as catgut?

The term "catgut" for suture material does not originate from cats. It is derived from the Middle English word "kit," meaning fiddle, and "gut," referring to the strings of musical instruments. Originally, the strings of musical instruments were made from the intestines of animals, including sheep, goats, and other domestic animals. As these materials were also suitable for surgical sutures, the term "catgut" became associated with surgical suture material made from animal intestines.

Here are some additional points to consider regarding the origin of the term "catgut":

Purposes of catgut: While catgut sutures were primarily used for internal stitching and wound closure, they were also employed in other medical procedures. For instance, they were commonly utilized in ophthalmic surgery, hernia repair, and obstetrics.

Replacement materials: Due to concerns about potential disease transmission and allergic reactions associated with animal-derived sutures, synthetic alternatives were gradually introduced in the mid-20th century. These synthetic sutures, such as nylon, polyester, and polypropylene, offered advantages in terms of consistency, sterility, and reduced tissue reactivity. Catgut sutures were gradually phased out and are rarely used in modern surgical practices.

Despite their historical significance and widespread use, the term "catgut" for suture material can be considered a misnomer as it does not reflect the actual source of the material used in modern surgical sutures.